http://www.care2.com/greenliving/safe-dog-toys.html
Are Your Dog’s Toys Safe?
By Sheila Pell, The Bark
They make the world go round. They make it bounce, roll and soar. They’re objects that inspire play, enrich training, ease boredom and curb problem behaviors. Toys, according to the experts (and every dog worth his molars), are a must-have.
Despite the constant media comments about how we pamper our pets, toys are no mere luxury. Experts say that dogs need them, and need more than one kind. That doesn’t mean more bells and whistles, just different types. Toys can take the edge off a bad day, like a stress ball you squeeze when you’re mad. Softer toys a dog can “baby” satisfy gentler instincts. Frisbees, balls and tugs are ways to share the fun, while squeaky playthings cry out for attack.
The question is, which toys? With a global pet economy, the options - and problems - keep growing. On the pet aisles, shoppers are greeted with all the persuasive power of an infomercial. Bright, funky objects, packaged to the nines, demand closer inspection but not too close. The readable text is mostly advertising, not information. “The packaging for these products is incredible and totally deceiving,” says Pattie Boden, owner of the Animal Connection in Charlottesville, Va. Boden, who is picky about sourcing safe, natural toys to stock her shelves, says that a 25-year career in advertising has made her a skeptic.
Unfortunately for dogs and owners, manufacturing of pet toys relies on the honor system; for less scrupulous companies, it’s trial by error. In some cases, even errors (discovered through consumer complaints) are ignored. Choose carelessly and our dogs may pay the hidden cost. Among the most familiar hazards are choking and stomach obstruction. Pieces as well as particles may be ingested, and since our pups use their mouths to play, toxic materials and coatings also pose a risk. Yet the Food and Drug Administration doesn’t regulate dog toys, and the Consumer Product Safety Commission only regulates pet toys that can be proven to put consumers (people, not dogs) at risk.
What makes a toy special to a dog may escape human logic, but knowing your dog can help you make wiser choices.
From hyper puppyhood to senior moments, knowing your dog also means selecting toys based on his life stage. A dog who’s teething doesn’t play like an old soul whose teeth are worn. A rambunctious adolescent craves different toys than a placid adult dog.
Before buying, use your senses. Strong chemical smells indicate residual chemicals. Brightly dyed fabrics may contain toxic ingredients and leach dye when wet. (Fabric dyes aren’t tested for consumption.) Avoid toys treated with fire retardants or stain guard, as they may contain formaldehyde and other chemicals. Study labels and visit manufacturers’ websites for additional information. Conscientious companies are transparent about their processes.
Safe fun: two words that often collide in a dog’s world, where mysterious edges and flimsy seams can make the most alluring objects. As long as the toy industry is an unsupervised playground, it’s up to loving owners to keep their eyes on the ball and ring and squeaker.
Next: 5 smart dog toy choices
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add your comment »Despite the constant media comments about how we pamper our pets, toys are no mere luxury. Experts say that dogs need them, and need more than one kind. That doesn’t mean more bells and whistles, just different types. Toys can take the edge off a bad day, like a stress ball you squeeze when you’re mad. Softer toys a dog can “baby” satisfy gentler instincts. Frisbees, balls and tugs are ways to share the fun, while squeaky playthings cry out for attack.
dsi r4
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Good article to increase awareness t_b, thanks. Owners should spend a little more time talking with their Vet, and what type of toy is or is not recommended for their pets. Many toys. and parts of toys have been fished out of a dog, and cat stomach, throat. nose holes, and plastic spinsters have been pulled out from their feet/toes. Most people think that rover, or the cat is invincible, or immune to this stuff occurring ... however, a quick talk with most vets will certainly provide for another (safer) outlook.
christmas presents
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Regarding the statement that toys treated with fire retardants or stain guard might contain formaldehyde, true! But be aware that many if not most rawhide chews so commonly given to dogs are preserved with formaldehyde! You have to search for the ones that aren't (should say so on label).
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Kongs and Nylabones have always been favorites with me and my dogs. Watch out for painted latex toys made in China as they could have lead paint. Check squeaky toys for a squeaker, if it is a plastic or metal insert instead of just a hole avoid it.
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Very good to know, as Christmas is coming up soon and pet pressies need to be bought. My aunt and uncle have an enormous Pyrenese Mountain Dog and I'd hate to buy anything that could harm him. Thanks for this article!
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Thanks for posting this. I emailed it to several people. With the holidays coming up it will be especially helpful.
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