By Claudia Bensimoun
First Published in Fido Friendly magazine
Issue 65 • Feature
We should all be passionate about non-animal testing.
Curious about pet-safe beauty products? This Fido Friendly feature by Claudia Bensimoun explores cruelty-free cosmetics, highlighting non-toxic, pet-friendly ingredients that keep your dog safe during grooming. From Lush’s animal-testing-free shampoos to vet-approved lotions, it offers insights into eco-friendly, holistic pet care. The article unpacks the benefits of choosing products free from harmful chemicals, protecting pets from skin irritation while supporting ethical brands. Perfect for pet parents seeking natural grooming solutions, it draws on wellness principles for happier, healthier dogs. Below are key highlights from the feature. Read the full article on FidoFriendly.com here
Cruelty-Free Pet Benefits
One of the biggest challenges consumers face is distinguishing between cruelty-free products and those that have been tested on animals. Adding to the frustration and confusion, when it comes to cruelty-free products, terms most commonly used are “not tested on animals,” “greenwashing,” “vegan,” “organic,” and “natural.”
You may think that you’re purchasing a cruelty-free brand, yet many of these “cruelty-free” brands have parent companies that test on animals, and indirectly support them. Being cruelty-free means that neither the ingredients nor the product have been tested on animals.
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Pet-Safe Cosmetic Safety
“As consumers, we all have the power to help put an end to animal testing. Every time you go shopping, it’s an opportunity to vote with your dollars. By purchasing cruelty-free products, you send a powerful message to corporations that can’t have your money as long as they test on animals.
We ask everyone to please buy only from companies that have banned all tests on animals,” explains Amanda Nordstrom, Esq. Company Liaison, Beauty Without Bunnies, Office of the President, People For The Ethical Treatment of Animals. (PETA)
Study Product Labels
As a concerned consumer, it’s necessary to study the product labels and confirm that nothing was made in China. Chinese law requires that all products sold in China have to be tested on animals. “In the United States, tests on animals are permitted, but not required, for cosmetics,” says Nordstrom.
To further complicate an already tricky labeling debate, if a product is selling in China, like many of the larger cosmetic brands, you will know that your product has been tested on animals. People For The Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), and the National Anti-Vivisection Society (NAVS) all have an updated list of cruelty-free products. A simple way to identify these products is to look for the Leaping Bunny logo.
Claudia Bensimoun, Cruelty-Free Cosmetics, Pet-Safe Cosmetics, Non-Toxic Pet Products, Fido Friendly, Holistic Pet Care, Pet Grooming Safety, Animal Testing Free, Dog Wellness Products, Lush Pet Products, Pet-Safe Beauty, Canine Wellness, Eco-Friendly Pet Care, Vet-Approved Cosmetics, Pet Health Products
For the Full Exclusive Story, see the Spring 2015 Issue of FIDO Friendly.