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Toy safety issues apply to pets, too
Dear Alex: Weenie, my–;15-month-old dachshund–;puppy, loves to chew on anything plastic. He has a lot of toys, and–;I was wondering how safe his toys really are. Is it possible for dogs to–;get lead poisoning, and are puppy toys tested for lead before they hit the shelves of pet stores?
- Amanda and Weenie
Dear Amanda and Weenie: Many pet toys are not safe, just as many children's toys have been proven unsafe. But, unlike human toys that are tested by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, pet toys are not specifically tested by any organization. Therefore, precautions need to be taken.
To date, there have been no scientific studies to determine how lead from toys might affect our pets. I assume you have heard about the concerns of lead paint in children's toys made in China. The only testing of pet toys I have heard about is by a news station in Phoenix, Ariz., which 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. Other people have done tests and claim high levels of toxic metals are present. The American Veterinary Medical Association has not issued a position statement in this matter.
Veterinarians recommend that pet owners use toys designed for pets rather than substituting children's toys. And even then, some pet toys can be considered dangerous for some dogs. For example, small rubber balls should never be given to large dogs. Not only can they be inadvertently swallowed, they can also become lodged in the airway. Although some toys that are swallowed can pass, many times they have to be either removed with an endoscope or surgically.
Consider all toys to be rated "PG" (Parental Guidance), and don't leave your pet alone with the toy until you are sure the toy will stand up to your pet's playing.
And, there are certain toys that should be avoided. Don't purchase toys with squeakers that can be removed by your pet. Don't give your pet toys that can be chewed into small pieces. Don't choose toys with rope that can unravel and be swallowed. Avoid toys with string or yarn for cats, and avoid cloth or rubber toys that can be destroyed by chewing.
If you suspect your pet has swallowed a toy or part of a toy, contact your veterinarian. Common signs include retching, vomiting and listlessness. X-rays and ultrasound can help diagnose a foreign object in the stomach or intestines. But the most important aspect of pet toy safety is prevention. An ounce of prevention can save many pounds of fur.
Speaking for Alex this week is Dr. Larry Baker, who practices small animal medicine and veterinary dentistry at 2800 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in Decatur. To submit a question, write to Ask Alex, c/o Herald & Review, Box 311, Decatur, IL 62625 or e-mail jmatherly@herald-review.com.
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