Pets need to be mentally stimulated throughout the day, and sometimes they make the oddest choices to burn off steam. Without the right toys to keep them busy, furniture, draperies, and shoes are among the most common victims of gnawing jaws and scratching paws, but we’ve heard that wallpaper and pillows are easy targets, too.

The point is, a pet that receives regular stimulation is a happy one. Now we just have to find safe pet toys that fit the bill!

Fill the Gaps

Safe pet toys can be provided before you leave the house, but only if you’re 100% confident they cannot break or be torn apart in your absence. Pet toys can go from “safe” to “hazardous” in just a few quick bites, leading to choking, obstruction, or skin/gum lacerations. It’s best to err on the side of caution and only give toys to your pet while you’re home, or give them those that you know cannot be easily destroyed.

They Really Help

Safe pet toys can definitely ward off boredom, but they’re also leaned on to provide comfort and even prevent problematic behaviors from taking root. In other words, toys give pets something to do and the reward for their daily attention is great behavior!

Types of Toys

Have you ever met a pet owner that doesn’t own a pet toy basket, bucket, or chest? That’s because pets get bored with toys after a while, and instead of tossing the used toys, we hold onto them in hopes that they’ll be picked up again.

Expert tips for safe pet toys include the following:

• Find about 6-10 toys that you know your pet enjoys and rotate them every few days.
• Make sure each toy is a little different than the others, providing your pet with various fabrics, textures, and shapes.
• Don’t be shy about giving your pet a challenge, like with Kong’s or treat puzzles
• Pet-proof your pet’s environment and clear out ribbons, small choking hazards, batteries, coins, rubber bands, children’s toys, socks, stockings, etc.
• Check that the toys do not have any small parts that can be chewed off and swallowed.
• Only use squeaky toys while you’re home (they can drive a dog to crazily chew the toy to tatters in search of the squeak!)
• Check the toys daily for any cracks or other signs of wear and tear
• Stuffed toys are not indestructible. In fact, many stuffed pet toys are filled with polystyrene beads or cotton stuffing that can cause problems if eaten.

Truly Safe Pet Toys

Dogs that love to chew contentedly for long spells usually go crazy for any of the Jolly Pets Products. They are specially designed to slip out of the mouth when dogs bite them, and they’re fun to push around, chase, and stomp on.

Interactive toys are also seen as safe pet toys because they are meant to be enjoyed by both the pet and the owner together. Tug toys, fetch, and flirt poles are great for expending loads of mental and physical energy – and the together time deepens the bond between dogs and their people.

Get Your Play On!

There are many factors to consider when shopping for (or creating your own) safe pet toys. Your pet’s species, breed, size, age, personality, lifestyle, and more will determine their toy preferences.

We are happy to discuss specific safe pet toys for your best friend to enjoy at home. Until then, if you have questions or concerns, please let us know at Schertz Animal Hospital!