Appropriate and Safe Chew Toys
Advice from Animal Expert Dr. Grey Stafford
 A member recently asked for tips to help teach her pet what things are acceptable to chew versus things that are not appropriate. Readers considering whether to adopt a new puppy this spring may want to check that column out again. However, I’d like to take the subject of appropriate and safe chew toys one step further. I was reminded of the importance of selecting safe food/toy items for our pets after reading two separate zoo news stories that grabbed my attention.
Hazards at the Zoo
In one instance, a young hippo died after ingesting a rubber ball that a visitor had thrown onto its exhibit. Despite the efforts of the zoo’s medical staff, the toy caused a lethal bowel obstruction. The second story may have a happier ending. It seems a siamang (type of primate) has a tendency to eat coins tossed into her exhibit. In many cases the coins are small and readily pass. However, this time the coin seems to have lingered in her gut for weeks causing toxins to be released into her body, leading to severe weight loss. With ongoing treatment, the zoo’s veterinarians think she will recover and that the coin will eventually pass.
Toy Hazards
These examples are clear reminders that our pets' well being depends largely on our ability to keep them from doing inadvertent harm to themselves. This is particularly true for young puppies and kittens that are very curious and inexperienced about the hazards that lurk around the home. So, keep an eye on those pet specific toys to be certain they are still in good shape. For example, hard plastic chew toys have a limited useful life. Once those knobby ends are worn off, it is time to throw the whole thing away. Also, be sure the toy is sized appropriately for your pet. ( i.e. Big dogs need bigger toys to keep from swallowing small pieces.). If your plush toys are losing their stuffing either sew them back up or get new ones.
Even disposable items made from paper or cardboard can cause problems. Sure, those paper towel rolls can make a fun and inexpensive toy that can be easily shredded. But, be sure to supervise animals to prevent them from eating small bits of cardboard which can contain chemicals that may be harmful to them in large doses.
No Bones About It…
As for the age-old question of giving dogs bones, I usually caution against it. For very large breed dogs, it might be appropriate to give extra large knuckle bones from cattle—never small, brittle ones from chicken etc. Even then, I’d limit access to times the animals can be supervised. And, be quick to discard them before any splintering can occur.
Like diligent zoo keepers, it's vital we pet owners keep our guard up against everyday hazards in the home in order to protect our pets
~ Dr. Grey
Learn more about Dr. Grey Stafford
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