So, you’ve brought your new dog home and you have your stash of biodegradable poop bags ready for your first walk. Nicely done.

I promised you I’d hook you up with the info on green beds, toys and leashes, and I won’t let you down. I may not give you my real number at the dog park, but I won’t let your dog suffer because she came home with you.  

If you think it isn’t important to buy a natural bed for your pet, you should know that the Environmental Working Group found more than 48 different toxic substances in dogs’ and cats’ bodies. Many of the chemicals have been linked to cancer. The toxic stuff came from flame retardants used on dog beds, stain-proofing chemicals on carpet, and plastic softeners called phthalates that are used in a wide range of products from shampoos to toys.

Now that I've sufficiently freaked you out, here are a few green pet bed suggestions. West Paw, Bella Dogga and Jax and Bones. Jax and Bones has a variety of green choices from eco bedding to a 100% organic line. Even the classic line is filled with an eco-friendly material made from recycled plastic bottles.

If you want some natural toy ideas, keep clicking around the Jax and Bones site. They offer natural woolies as well as rope toys dyed with natural, non-toxic dyes. The proceeds from the rope toy sales benefit an animal rescue organization. Double bonus. 

Lastly, if you want a sustainable collar and leash, take a look at The Good Dog Company. They use hemp for their leashes, collars and toys. Hemp can be grown without toxic pesticides and is also a sustainable product. Whole Foods carries The Good Dog products, and you can also find them online.

Now get off your ass and take your new dog for a walk. You just might meet someone as hot as me while you’re out on a stroll.