The deadly secret China doesn’t want you to know about dog toys

Take a look at the labels on toys that your dog chews regularly. Or look at the labels on dog toys at the pet store. You may be surprised that not only in chain stores, but also in high-end pet boutiques, most dog toys are: Made in China.

Why should you be worried? Consumer Affairs reports that pet toys examined by veterinarians found some toys to contain elevated levels of lead, chromium and cadmium. Chromium is a carcinogen and if dogs put these products in their mouths, they are at increased risk of health effects. Lead toxicity can also build up over time in a dog’s system, and smaller dogs are particularly vulnerable. Veterinarians claim that metal toxicity can shorten the lives of dogs.

HealthyStuff.org reported that 45% of imported pet toys released unsafe levels of dangerous toxins. Veterinarians report that these toxins come off easily from toys in tests, which is bad news for dogs who like to drool on toys. Worse yet is that there is no regulation on this pet toy industry. The laboratories that analyze these products confirm that it is increasingly common to find toxins in products imported from China. Parents of young children with pets have a right to be concerned, as young children can also put dog toys in their mouths.

Experts advise pet owners to check labels before buying and try to buy Made in the USA toys whenever possible. Your dog’s life and health may depend on it.

My mission is to raise awareness of the dangers of imported pet products and to help save the lives of innocent dogs by providing safe and healthy products.