Calling all animal-lovers and eco-friends.
The cruelty-free trend is growing by the minute. From #CrueltyFreeFridays, to the Flexitarian diet, to the #MakeFurHistory movement, young professionals (YPs) all across Canada are seeking out ways to live their lives without causing harm to their environment or their favourite furry and feathered friends.
So to help keep up that compassionate lifestyle throughout the most indulgent time of the year, we’ve come up with these nine easy tips.
No vegan peer pressure here, just some simple swaps to help make this holiday season more humane and enjoyable for all.
1. Go Faux
Sure, we all love snuggling up in something warm and fuzzy this time of year, and thanks to luxurious faux fur, we compassionate types still can. Faux fur has come a long way, so there’s no need to forgo any warmth or fabulousness this holiday season – just check those labels and go for faux.
2. Buy Organic
Feeling a bit conflicted about that holiday turkey? We get it. If you’re not quite down with giving up your traditional meal, but still want to make a more humane choice, simply seek out locally farmed, certified organic meat (and dairy) products for this year’s feast. Take a stand against brutal factory farming, while still being able to indulge in tasty holiday traditions.
3. Try a Vegan Nog
If you haven’t already tried soymilk in your lattes and almond milk on your cereal, why not take the plunge this year and try out some popular (and way lower in fat) vegan nog options currently filling the shelves? (We’re loving Canadian-made Noel Nog by So Nice). With enough rum, we promise you won’t even be able to tell the difference.
4. Designer Pleather Please
Do designer handbags and other leather goods often grace your holiday wish list? Feeling a bit torn about having to give them up in the name of compassion? Well have no fear, Matt & Nat are here. Not only does this posh designer brand make gorgeous animal-free, leather-like products (some from recycled water bottles no less) they’re also Canadian. Support local business, look hot doing it, and of course, rejoice in knowing no animals were harmed. Now that’s a happy Holiday.
5. Surprise Them with Lush
Fancy bath products always make awesome holiday gifts. If you’re in search of a cruelty-free present for your Secret Santa this year, Lush offers amazing, high quality products that contain zero animal ingredients and are not animal tested. Plus, it all just smells so good. (For more on cruelty-free bath and cosmetic brands, check out this list.)
6. Travel Wisely
If you’re taking off somewhere hot for the holidays (we’re jealous of you), make sure to avoid tourist traps that involve animal exploitation. Think: animal rides, bullfights, rodeos, circuses, even those trendy photos ops with wild animals. It may seem like a fun way to experience the local culture, but it’s often just well concealed animal cruelty. (Learn more here.)
7. Retire the Uggs
Isn’t it just time?
8. Wait on Buying a Pet
A cute new puppy may seem like the perfect holiday gift, but according to many animal advocates, Christmas is far from the ideal time to add a pet to the family. Holidays are hectic and gifts are bought on impulse, which often leads to stressed out and returned pets. Wait until after the holidays to get your furry new pal, and always #AdoptDontShop.
9. Get Giving
The holiday season is the most popular time of year to give. To really make this year’s festivities cruelty-free and compassion-filled, be sure to set aside some of that gift giving budget to help support your fave wildlife, environmental, or animal rescue charities. These groups really depend on holiday-inspired generosity, so dig deep and get giving.
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