Pet Toys Could Pose a Danger

Did it seem like every time you turned on the television this year you were hearing about children’s toys being recalled due to the toxic levels of lead? Children’s toys may not be the only ones affected. The toys your pet plays with and chews on every day could contain toxic levels of lead. I usually don’t do posts on Tuesdays, but when I read this in the news, I felt like I had to share it with you!

How can you tell the toys you are giving your dog are 100% safe? First, look at where the item was made. If it was made overseas, put the toy back on the shelf! In the United States, policies, guidelines, and agencies exist to keep harmful ingredients out of stores. Overseas, they are much more lax when it comes to what they allow in production.

Toys were being recalled at an alarming rate from toy giants such as Mattel, but all the companies had one thing in common: the toys were being produced overseas. Take an extra second and read the package of the toy carefully. If you can, you should jot the name of the company down (and telephone number if available) and contact them about where their product was made, and if their toys contain lead or anything else hazardous to your pet’s health.

I mentioned in a previous post a toy company who encouraged customers to send back their chewed-up toys. The company recycles the old toys, using them to manufacture new ones.  This is just one of the many examples out there - all you have to do is look!!

Don’t be afraid to ask questions - and make sure you get answers!!  Talk to your veterinarian about toys he/she recommends and follow their guidelines!  Your vet is someone who cares for your pet, someone who wants them to be happy and healthy - they will give you great advice!

Thanks for reading!  As always your participation in comments and discussions are encouraged and greatly appreciated!!