Activism

8 Compassionate Companies That Are Giving Back to Animals

What do a florist, a shoe seller, and a dog-food maker have in common? They’re animal-friendly PETA Business Friends, and they have company—lots of company. The dozens of companies that support PETA’s work include a travel planner and a B&B, a yoga school, a chocolatier, and wine and popcorn shops. Looking for a fancy watch? How about a tutor?

PETA Business Friends are cruelty-free and vegan-friendly. Some of them also donate a portion of their proceeds to PETA, and more than three dozen recently contributed products—including lip balms, lotions, and fragrances; packets of pasta and pistachios; candy bars, tea, flip-flops, and even a copy of Chrissie Hynde’s memoir—to fill the gift bags at our 35th anniversary gala.

VIP gift bag

Want to support these kind companies? Of course you do! To get you started (we’re thoughtful that way), here are a few—OK, more than a few—ethical companies to consider when shopping for yourself or for those who are near and dear. (The holidays will be here before you know it.)

  1. Darling Naturals: Mother Nature supplies the ingredients—including shea butter, coconut oil, botanicals, and herbs—for this cruelty-free company’s line of baby, tween and teen, and mom skin-care products. Darling also has newborn onesies, gowns, and booties made of organic Egyptian cotton.
  2. Harvey Prince Organics: Two brothers set out to create a perfume for their mother. Today, Harvey Prince features fragrances and personal-care products created from organic flowers and spices that are cruelty-free, vegan, and safe for moms-to-be. There’s a fragrance for guys, too.
  3. Max Green Alchemy: Shampoos and styling gels, facial oils and foot balms, something for her, something for him, and not a paraben or petrochemical among them. Instead, the company loads its all-vegan line with organic herbs and essential oils. The formula works. In 2008, Max Green won a PETA Proggy Award for Best Cruelty-Free Personal Care Product.
  4. Miyoko’s Kitchen: Miyoko’s Classic Double Cream Chive, French Style Winter Truffle, and other vegan temptations are artisan—made by hand the old-fashioned way. Miyoko Schinner wanted to recreate the textures and flavors of the dairy cheeses that she ate before going vegan. It looks like she succeeded.
  5. MooShoes: If the shoe fits, this all-vegan retailer has it. Flats, heels, and wedges for her; Oxfords, lace-ups, and loafers for him; sandals, sneakers, and boots for both. Plus, you can find bags, wallets, belts, and outerwear.
  6. Pura Botanica: This personal-care company is based in Florida, but it uses organic, sustainably harvested ingredients from all over the world for its bath salts, soaps, shampoos, conditioners, and hand crèmes. Many come in attractive gift sets. And check out the vegan beeswax-free candles.
  7. v-dog: If vegan people leave smaller footprints on the environment, it follows that vegan dogs leave smaller paw prints. v-dog’s kibble is 100 percent plant-based and doesn’t skimp on protein. Its tasty treats (don’t tell your four-legged friend that they’re for healthy smiles) are loaded with the same natural, cruelty-free goodness.
  8. Juice Beauty: Why juice? Do you want your skin absorbing petroleum and pesticides when it can soak up jojoba, grape seed, shea butter, and aloe infused with citrus juices? The latter are the foundation of a full line of organic skin-care products and makeup from the company that’s perhaps most famous for its creative director, Gwyneth Paltrow.

You can find the full list of PETA Business Friends—and links to their websites—at the PETA Mall. Speaking of lists, it’s time to make yours. Check it twice.