Looking for some fun, affordable and ecologically friendly projects and product recipes for your favorite furry canine? This book will likely have what you need.

Written by Corbett Marshall and Jim Deskevich, this Chronicle Books title is printed on sustainably harvested paper with vegetable based inks. The fun brown paper bag style cover with full color decals sets the tone for a title that will get the kids excited about pet responsibility too. (Go ahead, tell me you haven’t been there.)

Loaded with recipes, checklists and diagrammed directions for various DIY projects, this book is loaded with ideas and resources on such topics as grooming, play, homemade dog food and first aid. What’s more, nearly every suggestion takes frugality into account.  Recycled felted sweaters patch-worked into a travel blanket, used blue jeans being turned into a creative stuffed dog bed, homemade herbal flea powder stored in a thrift store salt shaker, and ideas for turning those mate-less socks into a variety of charming stuffed creatures for your furry friends to play with. There are even directions and tips for beginners to start implementing basic canine massage at home.

Dying for an inside peek? Here’s a simple two-ingredient recipe for baked dog treats that don’t require a rolling pin and a cookie cutter:

  • 1 cup organic wheat germ
  • 2 small jars of organic baby food (you can also puree your own veggies or meat)

Mix up the two ingredients and preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.  Grease a baking sheet and roll mixture into one inch balls. Place individual spheres on baking sheet and flatten with a fork. Bake for 25-30 minutes and cool on a wire rack. Variations include add 1 tbsp of pureed garlic for added flea control or 2 tbsp flaxseed meal for a shiny coat. Pretty simple, huh?

I haven’t enjoyed a DIY book this much in a long time. Personal verdict? Worth the read.