Pet Supply Verified Weblog

Well, it seems that there is not much news on the pet food front, but with the issues with toys for children this holiday season, the question of pet toy safety has been raised.

1.    Due to concerns of lead paint in children’s toys made in China, as well as the massive toy recalls, some pet owners and veterinarians are becoming concerned about dog and cat toys as well.

2.    To date, there have been no scientific studies to determine how lead from toys might affect our pets.

3.    Unlike human toys that are tested by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, pet toys are not specifically tested by any organization.

4.    The following website is a detailed article about pet toys sold by Wal-Mart and the on-going battle of words between Wal-Mart and ConsumerAffairs.com (note, this is NOT an objective article) http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/09/pet_food_recalls76.html

5.    A news station in Phoenix, Arizona had several pet toys tested at a laboratory and found levels of lead that were far below levels that are deemed safe.  However, these standards were based on levels of lead in paint and no similar standards have been set for pet toys.

6.    To date, the AVMA has not issued a position statement on this subject.

7.    Veterinarians recommend that pet owners use toys designed specifically for dogs or cats and not substitute children’s toys.

8.    Avoid the following types of toys:

a.    Toys that contain squeakers that can be removed by the pet
b.    Toys that can be chewed into small pieces
c.    Any toy with rope that can unravel and be swallowed
d.    Any toy with string or yarn for cats
e.    Cloth or rubber toys

9.    Consider all toys to be rated “PG” (Parental Guidance) and don’t leave your pet alone with the toy until you are certain that the toy will stand up to your pet’s playing.

10.    Use size appropriate toys.   Avoid giving small rubber balls to large breed dogs.   These can easily become lodged in the airway.