Dog toys not only provide a bit of fun for your beloved pooch, but they also help burn off excess energy. However, pet owners must consider safety when selecting dog toys or they run the risk of paying an emergency visit to a veterinarian surgeon. The team at Alexandria Pike Animal Hospital in Southgate, KY, want owners to enjoy a long and happy life with their pets. That’s why they offer the following recommendations.

A Guide to Safe Pet Toys From a Trusted Veterinarian Surgeon

1. Steer Clear of Low-Quality Toys

Dog toys are not subject to safety standards like other products. This means that toys touted as cheaper or were manufactured outside of the U.S. could contain toxic materials. This can be a problem for dogs, since it’s not uncommon for canines to inadvertently consume parts of toys while chewing and playing. Only purchase toys from trusted manufacturers and check the labeling to ensure plastic toys are free of BPA, which is a potentially harmful chemical found in many plastic products.

2. Watch for Choking Hazards

Some toys also carry a greater risk of choking, which could be deadly for your dog. Ribbons and strings are problematic in this case, as are any small pieces that can easily be inhaled by a dog at play. The filling inside a toy can also pose a risk. It’s likely your dog will make its way into a toy after a while, and the filling in it probably isn’t digestible. This is a good reason to toss toys once they’ve become dismantled by a playful pup.

3. Be Cautious of Human Toys

While toys made for children are certainly designed with safety in mind, it helps to remember that kids and dogs play in very different ways. That means a product deemed safe for a kid might not be looked at the same when torn to shreds, which is a standard play time procedure for many dogs. While you can use your judgment in this case, it’s recommended that you only provide toys to your dog that were designed with a canine in mind.

Whether your pet requires the skilled services of a qualified veterinarian surgeon or you need information on flea & tick medication, the team at Alexandria Pike Animal Hospital is poised and ready to assist you. Schedule an appointment in Southgate today by calling (859) 781-1800. You can also learn more about their complete listing of services, including boarding, by stopping by the website.