Have you ever thought about whether the toys you are buying for your pets have gone through safety requirements? . I have had some toys that I've taken away from my dogs because I was nervous that they might choke when it started falling apart. And I think many of us have had that concern; but have you thought about the chemicals or heavy metals?
Our pets love their toys. It makes them happy and can help eliminate boredom. They can chew, chase and tug!! But, with the growing problems with foods and treats, should we also be concerned about the toys we get for our pets?
Here is what I found:
Toys-there is no specific regulatory requirements for pet toys other than general safety requirements for consumer products which would be overseen by the Consumer Products Safety Commission. However, many of the larger retailers now require safety and durability standards for pet toys that are very similar to requirements for children's toys. (1)
Toys-there is no specific regulatory requirements for pet toys other than general safety requirements for consumer products which would be overseen by the Consumer Products Safety Commission. However, many of the larger retailers now require safety and durability standards for pet toys that are very similar to requirements for children's toys. (1)
This is unfortunate for pet owners! For some companies, it’s trial by error. In some cases, even problems reported by consumers 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.
Other Toxic Problems:
It's not just choking and obstructions that you need to be concerned about but also dyes, preservatives and chemical residue. This is not really new to the pet toy industry. A string of toxic Chinese imports had sparked fresh worries. Tests conducted by ConsumerAffairs.com found a variety of toys tainted with toxic heavy metals, including cadmium, lead and chromium. From cancer agents to neurological poisons, these chemicals are released from affected toys when dogs lick and chew them, according to Dr. Ernest Lykissa, the toxicologist who assessed them.
Chromium is a carcinogen. It can cause cancer in the bladder and kidneys, and if its inhaled, cause cancer in the lungs. There's nothing good about chromium. And cadmium is a horrible thing to get into the body. It creates havoc in the joints, kidneys, and lungs.
Another concern is toys that use Phthalates. Phthalates are chemicals often used as platicizers. This means they are added to plastic products to soften them. Phthalates have been associated with many health issues, including ones related to reproductive health, in various studies.
Made in the U.S.:
Does not equal safe!! Don't think that just because your toy was made in the U.S. that it is safe. Keep in mind that the FDA does NOT regulate the pet toy industry. You are relying on the company that makes the toy for your pet's safety.
Should You Buy These Toys?
Not only could your pets be ingesting toxins or choking, but if you have small children, it's possible they may put the toys in their mouths -- also ingesting the toxins.
Are There Safe Toys?
Yes, there are. Even though made in the U.S. does not guarantee no heavy metals or other chemicals, but staying away from China made toys would probably be a good idea.
Stay tuned for a blog on suggestions for safe toys or follow my Facebook page!!
(1) http://www.americanpetproducts.org/law/lawlibrary_article.asp?topic=62
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