Skip to main content

Support WBUR

Unpacking the carbon pawprint of America’s pets

05:45
Puppies play in a cage at a pet store. (Jose Luis Magana/AP)
Puppies play in a cage at a pet store. (Jose Luis Magana/AP)

Many people consider their pets to be a part of their family. Yet dogs and cats have a massive and underdiscussed climate pawprint.

Is there a way to reduce your furry friend's greenhouse gas emissions, and is there a way to discuss this topic without alienating pet owners?

Grist associate editor Claire Thompson joins Here & Now's Elissa Nadworny to explain.

This segment aired on November 19, 2025.

Support WBUR

Support WBUR

Listen Live