Calling all seasoned dog parents with a lively, energetic canine in the house! You're probably well aware that your vivacious fur companion turns everything within reach into a toy. Be it the shoe sitting idly in the corner, the ball you forgot in the yard, or even the special dress you'd planned to wear at an upcoming event. Yet, despite your pet's inventive playtime repertoire, not all items should be a dog toy.
A dog's toy of choice can potentially pose health risks, particularly if they swallow something not intended to be a dog toy. Swallowed items can become lodged in the intestinal tract, leading to abdominal discomfort or worse. Detecting if your dog has ingested something can be challenging, as symptoms might take from minutes to hours or even days to become noticeable.
The Unexpected Health Hazards for Dogs
Almost any household or outdoor item small enough for your dog to carry can become an attractive plaything. Dog parents may not even be aware of some of the objects their pets take interest in. Nevertheless, unless an item was explicitly designed for dog use, it could pose a health hazard. It's crucial to remember that even some commercially available pet toys might have safety issues. Navigating the world of dog toys may seem daunting, but certain steps can help ensure your pet's safety.
Dog Toy Hazards to Be Mindful Of
Classic "toys" like sticks and stones carry their own set of risks. Sticks can cause splinters in the mouth or stomach if swallowed. Instead, opt for hard, non-splintering chew toys that mimic the shape of sticks and can be purchased from reliable pet stores. These toys serve the same purpose as sticks, and they can be cleaned regularly and used for fetch or for your dog to gnaw on.
Several pet-specific toys might not be as suitable as you'd expect. For instance, latex toys can be torn apart, while squeaking toys often contain a small part inside that, if swallowed, poses a choking hazard.
Pieces of clothing, if ingested, can clump up and lead to intestinal issues. Even something as innocuous as a stone can lead to dental damage due to its hardness.
Remember to avoid leaving plastic bags around, as they present a suffocation risk, especially for smaller dogs. Sharp objects can cause cuts and abrasions, while materials like leather or metals can contain toxic elements.
Fortunately, there's a wide variety of safe dog toys available in reputable pet stores. We offer a range of dog toys that prioritizes your pet's safety while providing the enjoyment they deserve. Vet Products Direct offers an extensive selection of dog toys, curated with your pet's safety and enjoyment in mind.
