Read more about the article How to Keep a Dog Calm During Fireworks

How to Keep a Dog Calm During Fireworks

Reading Time: 7 MIN

dog hiding under bedHow can you keep a dog calm during fireworks? The 4th of July is a lot of people’s favorite holiday…but not for dogs.  According to a study conducted by Zazie Todd, PhD, when asked about their dog’s response to fireworks, thunder, etc., 49% of owners reported a fearful response from their dog. The most common responses to noises were trembling/shaking (43%), barking (38%) and seeking out people (35%)¹. Furthermore, animal shelters report that 4th and 5th of July are their busiest days due to the amount of dogs that get spooked from the fireworks and run off (Baranauckas, 2018). 

Let’s Do the Numbers

30% of all lost pet incidents each year occur on the evening of  the Fourth of July.

PetAmberAlert.com reports that nationally, animal shelters and animal control officers across the country see a 30-60% increase in lost pets each year between July 4th and 6th.

The ASPCA completed a large survey and found:

  • 15% of pet parents had a lost dog or lost cat in the past five years
  • 85% of those lost pets were recovered: 74% of cat parents found their lost cat and 93% of dog parents found their lost dog
  • 49% of the lost dogs were found by searching the neighborhood
  • 15% of the lost dogs were recovered because they were wearing an ID tag or had a microchip
  • 59% of the lost cats returned home on their own
  • 30% of the lost cats were found by searching the neighborhood
  • 6% of dog parents and 2% of cat parents found their lost pets at a shelter

What Can You Do to Prepare?

Hopefully, we are able to find our lost dog or cat quickly ourselves by searching our neighborhood. Second best, we hope that a good, animal-loving person has found them. But if this person finds them and can’t identify them, then we may still never end up reunited with our lost pet.

Here are a few tips to make sure our lost pet is returned to us quickly:

  • The easiest and fastest way to make sure our pets are identifiable is by wearing an ID tag.
  • Frayed and worn collars are more easily torn if they get caught on a fence or branch. We need to regularly check to makes sure our pets’ collars are intact. Check out Hollywood Feed’s Mississippi Made collars and leads here.
  • We should check to make sure that our pets’ ID tags are attached to their collars well and the clip or metal ring holding the tag to the collar is not worn or bent.
  • Let’s also check to make sure our pets’ ID tags are legible and not scratched. If it’s not legible, it’s worthless!
  • Keep dogs and cats inside after dusk and supervise potty breaks in fenced yards or take dogs out on a leash for a few days before and after the Fourth of July.

Microchips are a Great Back-Up

Besides ID tags, there are other options available to make sure our pets are able to be identified. I like ID tags because they are easily and quickly visible to a do-gooder. This makes it simple for someone to approach our dog or cat (if they’re being friendly), call our phone number, and reunite us.

I believe that pets should also be microchipped. Microchips cannot fall off a collar or become worn, so they are a great back-up if our pet becomes lost. If we microchip, though, we should not forget to also have an ID tag as well as keep our microchip information up to date!

Many people will make an effort to return a lost pet to his home with an easy, breezy phone call from a visible ID tag. It is a rarer type of person who will load a strange dog or cat into their car with no identifiers, take him to a vet’s office to see if there is a microchip, and then deal with the consequences of finding no microchip, or finding a microchip with outdated information. This means a stranger will have to make the choice to leave our pet with a shelter, or keep him at their home while they put up posters and make posts on websites. That’s if anyone stops to help in the first place!

Calming Treats for Dogs to Keep Them Calm During Fireworks

Calming treats are a natural way to make your dog feel relaxed during fireworks. Heavenly Hounds Relaxation Squares and Progility Calming Aids are two natural treats that help dogs feel less anxious. Heavenly Hounds is a fast acting treat and can be expected to work within minutes of giving it to your dog. And your dog will love the peanut butter flavor. 

Progility Calming Aid should be given 30 minutes before fireworks start. It contains L-Theanine which is a natural plant-based amino acid found in green tea leaves that can help promote relaxation and lower stress. Thiamine, also known as vitamin B1, helps strengthen the immune system and aid the body to withstand stressful conditions. L-Tryptophan is a naturally occurring essential amino acid that helps enhance calming effects to reduce anxiety and stabilize mood. Melatonin may help reduce stress for dogs suffering from noise phobias or separation anxiety, especially in unfamiliar surroundings or situations. And it is cold pressed, which is a modern production process that uses cold temperatures to retain the maximum efficacy of all the ingredients otherwise compromised by heat.

Let Your Dog Burrow and Hide

dog under blanketThe best option is to let your dog choose how they want to cope with loud sounds. While the calming treats are a great option, your dog may prefer to find a dark place to burrow and hide. Give them that option by prepping an area ahead of time. A donut bed is a great bed because the walls of the bed offer burrowing and nuzzle options for your pet. Pet blankets are another great addition for this so your pet can hide if that’s what they prefer to cope with the sound. 

Desensitization and Counterconditioning

Another way to keep a dog calm during fireworks is desensitization and counterconditioning. According to Zazie Todd, PhD, “The standard recommended treatment for fireworks fears is desensitization and counterconditioning (DSCC) using recordings of fireworks noises”². To practice this technique with your pup, play the audio of fireworks at a sound they are comfortable with. Then gradually, increase the volume. While this is happening, offer treats to the dog after the loud bang of a firework– this is the counterconditioning part. Training treats are a good option since they are smaller, so you can use them as long as you are doing this technique. Depending on your dog, this will vary in how long this takes. 

Last night I heard someone shooting off fireworks in my neighborhood! I usually expect to hear them on the 4th of July and New Year’s Eve, but this was a bit early. After hearing the fireworks and then dogs barking on my street, I realized that now would be a good time to remind everyone to take a few small steps to keep your dog safe around fireworks this year.

Supervision

Supervise dogs when they’re outside! Dogs who are otherwise fine in your backyard by themselves may become scared and try to dig under the fence to get away from the loud noise. Dogs can jump or climb 8-foot fences when they are very scared. DO NOT leave your dog in the backyard while you are out for the evening if fireworks are likely to go off.

Distraction

If your dogs are scared of fireworks even when they are inside with you, try turning on the TV or radio to drown out some of the noise outside. You can also give your dog a Kong stuffed with peanut butter or plain yogurt and then frozen. Treats like these will keep your pup occupied for a long time and help distract him from the scary noise.

Comfort

Another way to calm a dog during fireworks is to make sure that your dog has a comfortable place where he feels safe to ride out the evening. Does your dog love his crate? Maybe, he prefer a Mississippi Made dog bed in the corner. Or, bring out his favorite toy that he likes to cuddle with. Set up a space to make him feel as comfortable as possible.

Thundershirt

There is a product called Thundershirt that may be helpful for some dogs when they are anxious or scared. The shirt wraps around your dog snuggly and comfortably, designed to make your dog feel safe. It is easy to use and there is no training involved! You can find a ThunderShirt in all different sizes at your local Hollywood Feed location.

Clean Up

Check your yard for any stray fireworks that may have fallen into it before letting your dogs outside unsupervised. Some dogs may try to eat used fireworks.

Leave Dogs at Home

Small dog hiding under the bed scared.

If you are not completely sure that your dog is comfortable and calm around fireworks, then PLEASE do not take him to a fireworks display with you! He may run away or become so fearful that he bites or injures you or someone else.

What other tips do you have for keeping your dog safe through New Year’s Eve fireworks?

Have you ever had a lost dog or cat? Was he return home to you? Let us know in the comment section below.

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Related Content: Dogs and Fireworks Don’t Mix: How to Keep Your Dog Safe and Calm This New Year’s, Fear, Anxiety, Stress, and Phobias in Dogs, 10 Signs of Stress in Your Dog (more…)

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Read more about the article Can Pets Have Allergies?

Can Pets Have Allergies?

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Can Pets Have Allergies?

Are you a pet owner concerned that your beloved fur-baby might have an allergy? You’re not alone – allergies are surprisingly common in pets, just like they can be for humans. If your dog has allergies, symptoms could appear as early as 6 months, but most dogs with allergies are over one to two years old¹. The good news is that there are steps you can take to find out if your pet has allergies and how to manage them for a happier, healthier life for both of you! Hello

black and white dog scratching behind their ear in a field of flowers
Noticing your dog is itching more? Your pet may have allergies.

Find out:

1. What are the signs of pet allergies in dogs and cats?

2. Flea Allergy Dermatitis

3. How does diet play into pet allergies and what foods should you avoid feeding your furry friend if they have allergies?

4. What about environmental factors – is there anything else I can do to help my pet with their allergies?

5. When should you take your pet to the vet for allergy treatment options?

Pet Allergy Symptoms

Signs of pet allergies in dogs and cats vary from one pet to another, but they can generally include

    • itchy skin,
    • rashes,
    • excessive scratching or biting of the skin,
    • ear infections,
    • scabbing or redness of the skin,
    • hair loss, and
    • runny eyes.

Additionally, pets may experience sneezing or coughing due to an allergic reaction.

Flea Allergy Dermatitis

Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD) is when a dog is allergic to the saliva of a flea¹. If your dog is bitten by a flea, usually they will itch or have some irritation. But if your dog is severely scratching and itching to the point that they are losing hair and fur and making themselves bleed, they may be having an allergic reaction to flea saliva, which is a common insect allergen for pets. If your dog’s allergic reaction to the flea bite is severe, please go to the vet where they will give your dog medicine for immediate relief. Then, if your dog isn’t already, start using a monthly topical for flea prevention. Flea shampoos and flea comb are another great way to kill and remove fleas that are currently on your dog. Lastly, use a flea house spray and flea yard spray to prevent further future infestations.

Senior dog sniffing a bowl of dry dog food
Your pet may have a food allergy.

Food and Pet Allergies

Food allergies in pets are potentially caused by protein or carbohydrate sources. However, proteins in your pet’s food, like chicken, beef, lamb, eggs, and soy, are the most common food allergies¹ for pets. Consider the Elimination Diet method when trying to narrow down what food is causing your pet to have an allergic reaction. The most important thing to consider when feeding an elimination diet is to avoid ALL ingredients that are not part of that temporary diet. An elimination diet can take 12 weeks or even longer, but the results are trustworthy and the cost is minimal compared to other less effective methods of determining allergens.

Check out this excerpt from our blog, “What are Food Allergies and How Do I Stop Them.”

  • Isolate the primary ingredients in your pet’s food down to two: one meat and one carbohydrate.
  • The selected protein and carbohydrate sources should be something that you can be relatively certain is not causing the problem.
  • Select protein sources that your pet has had minimal contact. Some options include: pork, bison, turkey, duck, and kangaroo.
  • Some great carbohydrate source options include: sweet potatoes, lentils, tapioca, and garbanzo beans.
  • Other ingredients in the food should either be a healthy fat source, such as: fish oil, coconut oil or olive oil; or a simple vitamin or mineral supplement which should contain little to no allergic potential

Let’s Begin:

  • The food you have carefully chosen should be fed as the sole diet for your pet. This includes any dog treats or table scraps. Absolutely nothing else!
  • Observe your pets for an increase or decrease in symptoms. If symptoms begin to improve, then your pets should remain on that diet for up to 12 weeks or until the symptoms have completely subsided. If symptoms begin to worsen, it’s time to abandon one of the two primary ingredients and replace it with a different novel source.
  • It’s important that you only replace one ingredient at a time and then make note of the dates, ingredients, and any noticeable changes or benefits in our pet’s response.
  • Continue to rotate through ingredients until a combination that drastically decreases or completely eliminates any symptoms is found.
  • At this point, you can start adding one ingredient at a time to your pet’s diet, in the form of treats or other similar pet food formulas, all the while taking note of your pet’s responses to each ingredient.
  • This is how you can figure out, one by one, which ingredients your pets can tolerate.

Environmental Factors

Another important consideration when dealing with pet allergies is to identify and remove any environmental allergens that could be causing your pet’s reactions. Common substances such as molds, dust mites, dander, pollens, weeds, and grasses can all cause allergic reactions in pets. Keeping the house clean and removing or reducing exposure to these elements can help reduce allergy symptoms in pets.

woman vacuuming a rug with a dog looking
Keeping your house clean of environmental factors, like dust mites, can help reduce your pet’s allergy symptoms.

 

Additionally, you may need to change bedding materials that can collect allergens such as feathers or down pillows. You should also bathe your pet regularly with a mild shampoo designed for sensitive skin to help control shedding of allergens throughout the home environment. Furthermore, air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters can be another beneficial tool for controlling airborne irritants and helping ease allergy symptoms in pets. All of these strategies combined should help keep your pet’s allergies under control so they can live their best life!

Ask a Veterinarian for Help

Calico cat get checked out at the vet
If symptoms persist, seek help from your veterinarian for next steps!

 

If you are concerned that your pet may be suffering from severe allergies, it is important to take them to the veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment. Your vet will be able to provide you with a comprehensive plan for treating your pet’s allergies and determine the root cause, whether it be food or environmental. They can also recommend medications, dietary changes, and other measures to help control your pet’s allergies.

Pet allergies are a common problem among both cats and dogs. It is important to identify any potential triggers or allergens soon in order to properly manage the symptoms associated with these conditions.

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Related Blogs: What are Food Allergies and How Do I Stop Them?, Dermatology & Our Pets: Vet Advice on Common Skin Conditions, Such as Allergies and Ear Infections, Why Does My Dog Eat Grass? 

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Read more about the article National Pet Dental Health Month

National Pet Dental Health Month

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National Pet Dental Health Month

February is National Pet Dental Health Month! Proper pet oral hygiene can help protect pets from serious health and dental problems, including periodontal disease, gum disease, and other related illnesses. Comment below some tips and trick you have for keeping your pet’s dental health in check!

Fluffy orange cat holding and biting a toothbrush for pet dental health month
Brush your pet’s teeth regularly to prevent periodontal disease!

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is when plaque accumulates on the tooth and irritates and inflames the gum line and surrounding areas.¹ It affects 80% of dogs and 70% of cats.

Symptoms of periodontal disease include:

  • Bleeding or inflamed gums
  • Discolored teeth
  • Loose or missing teeth
  • Bad breath 
  • Irritability
  • Weight loss
  • Bloody or “ropey” saliva
  • Drop in appetite
  • Favoring one side of the mouth when chewing
  • Excessive drooling
  • Blood in water bowl or on chew toys¹

 

How to Stay on Top of Your Pet’s Dental Health!

  • Brush your pet’s teeth regularly
  • Consider water additives for pets that don’t like teeth cleaning
  • Use pet dental chews
  • Provide pet toys that can help keep their teeth healthy
  • Visit the vet for regular checkups and cleanings

Brush Your Pet’s Teeth Regularly

Don’t turn your nose to your dog’s bad breath! Brushing your pet’s teeth regularly is one of the most important steps in pet dental health. Regular brushing of your pet’s teeth is one of the most effective ways to maintain oral hygiene. Pet owners should use a toothbrush specifically designed for pets, which has softer bristles than human toothbrushes. To make brushing easier, you can use a pet toothpaste that comes in several flavors. If your pet does not like their teeth brushed, start by getting them used to having their mouth and teeth touched before starting regular brushing.

 

beagle drinking water from a clear water bowl with water additive for pet dental health
Try using water additives as an easy way to reduce tartar and plaque buildup.

Water Additives

For pets that don’t like having their teeth brushed, bluestem and Zymox water additives can be used to help reduce plaque buildup on pet’s teeth. Bluestem water additives are created with coactiv+ and scientifically formulated to improve your pet’s breath while simultaneously reducing the accumulation of biotin and bacteria. This additive is easy to apply; just place two capfuls into your pet’s water bowl every day for the best results. Next, Zymox can be used for both cats and dogs because it contains no xylitol. It’s recommended for all pets in need of gentle, non-drying everyday oral care. This can help pet owners maintain pet dental health without having to brush their pet’s teeth every day if their pet doesn’t enjoy that process.

 

dog with a benebone dental chew in their mouth
Benebone Dental Chews are a fun way to keep your pet’s teeth clean!

Pet Dental Chews

Furthermore, using pet dental chews is another important step in pet oral hygiene. Pet dental chews, like Benebone, are designed to reduce plaque build-up and freshen breath by gently scraping off tartar, plaque, and bacteria when your dog chews. In addition to pet dental chews, other products like Greenies and Nylabone for puppies can help keep your pet’s teeth clean. They are also designed to scrape off plaque and tartar build-up while providing a tasty treat.

 

Dental Toys

Dental toys, like Mammoth, are also great for helping maintain your pet’s dental health. The chewing action helps stimulate their gums and remove some of the plaque from their teeth, similar to floss. Provide pet toys that are specifically designed to promote healthy chewing habits to naturally keep your pet’s teeth clean and gums healthy.

gray and white cat at the vet clinic
Just like humans, your pet may benefit from regular teeth cleanings.

Schedule Teeth Cleanings with Your Vet

In addition to at-home pet dental care, it is important to schedule regular visits with your veterinarian for professional cleanings and checkups, similar to humans. During these vet visits, the pet’s teeth will be examined closely for signs of disease or infection and any signs of tartar or plaque will be professionally removed to prevent any serious illnesses from occurring or progressing further.

By following these simple guidelines during National Pet Dental Health Month – and all year long – pet owners can help protect their beloved furry friends from unnecessary health issues associated with poor oral hygiene.  A healthy mouth can mean a longer and healthier life for your pet, so why wait?  Happy National Pet Dental Health Month and happy brushing!

Products mentioned:

bluestem water additive for dogs and cats

benebone dental chew bacon flavor

hollywood feed pet toothbrush in yellow

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Read more about the article Puppy Training Checklist

Puppy Training Checklist

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Did you get a new puppy and want to start training them as soon as possible? The first steps in training your puppy can be a little intimidating, especially if you are new to the world of puppies. Any number of online guides and books can give you tips and advice on how to make the process go smoother, but how do you know you’re doing everything correctly? Puppy training should be fun and easy, which is why we have put together this free puppy training checklist.

Consider the breed of dog so you can get in a better mindset on how to train your dog: Border Collie, German Shepherd, Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, or Doberman Pinscher. You know the temperament of your pup best, but researching your dog’s breed will help you determine how much time and effort you need to begin your training journey. Some dog’s are more stubborn than others, so mentally preparing for more extensive training will help you get in the correct mindset before starting!

The other important step before you start training is creating an environment in your home where your puppy feels safe. Build a relationship with them and create a bond where your pup feels safe, and that will make the whole training process much easier and more enjoyable¹. Expose them to the outdoors in a casual setting as early as possible so they learn that the outside world is not scary! Traffic noises, ambulances, and other loud noises could distract your puppy when you try to start training them if they already aren’t used to it.

Puppy Training Checklist

Puppy Potty Training

Your puppy’s potty training schedule is one the most important steps in your puppy’s training. Have a designated potty spot outside and use lots of positive reinforcement whenever your pup uses this spot: treats, vocalization of praise, petting². Plan a schedule and stick to it– that’s the key. For example, if your pup is 2 months hold, then can hold if for 3 hours, max; the magic potty number is calculated by their age in months, plus one. So again, if your pup is 3 months old, then they need to go out to potty every 4 hours. Another great product to help with potty training is Poochie Bells. They allow your dog to let you know when they need to go outside. Watch this short video of Savannah from Hollywood Feed Union explain the benefits of Poochie Bells and other training quick tips!

Potty Training Supplies:

• Potty Pads

• Poochie Bells

• New York Made Stain & Odor

• Nature’s Miracle House-Breaking Potty Training Spray

Basic Commands are Key in Puppy Training

The next step is teaching your pup basic commands, like, “Sit!” This can be done as soon as possible². Some quick commands to teach your puppy are:

• Their name

puppy sitting outside waiting for command
Use training treats teaching your pup basic commands.

• Come

• No bite

• Wait

• Lay

Using training treats are a great tool for positive reinforcement when doing basic commands. After your pup performs the command correctly, immediately praise them and give them a training treat! A training treat is a smaller, low-calorie treat you can give your dog more often than regular treats to help with longer training sessions without making them unhealthy.

Basic Command Training Supplies:

• Company of Animals Multi-Level Clicker

• Coachi Training Products

• Company of Animals Target Stick

• Training Treats

Crate Training

Introduce the crate by leaving the door open in a high-traffic area of your home; don’t isolate them in a part of the house that is never used. Puppies will gravitate towards a safe space, almost like a den! Place treats in the open door crate and use a cozy Snoozepad or other crate mat to associate positivity with the crate.

Check out our Crate Training Guide: A Guide to Getting Your Dog Acquainted to a New Crate for more tips and tricks on crate training!

four puppies sitting politely in a crate
Crate Training Guide: A Guide to Getting Your Dog Acquainted to a New Crate

 

Crate Training Supplies:

• Dog Treats

• Hollywood Feed Wire Crates

• Mississippi Made Snoozepads

When to Start Leash Training a Puppy

Introduce a collar or harness in short spurts. Have the collar, leash, and harness near their bed so it’ll start smelling like them, but make sure the items are out of reach so your puppy doesn’t chew on them. That will make the objects seem less foreign. If your pup wants to pull, then remain still³. Don’t lunge, don’t pull back, but remain still. This step of puppy training will be a lot easier once you’ve taught your puppy basic commands. This will help them learn to come to you instead of pulling. Teach them a cue noise so they know when to come to you without the need to pull on their leash or jerk them towards you.

Leash Training Supplies:

• Mississippi Made Collars and Leashes

• Julius-K9 Harnesses

• Training Treats

Puppy Training Takes Time and Patience

Whether you are getting a new puppy or training a new puppy, it’s important to follow the basics when getting started. This puppy training checklist will give your training a jump start on the right paw and save you time. But remember: thorough puppy training takes time and patience, but in return, you will find that your dog has grown into a well-behaved family member!

Related Blogs: 10 Training Secrets Every Pet Parent Should Know, A Place for Everyone: Place Training Your Dog, Should You Use Training Pads with Your New Puppy?, Highlights from Puppy Training: Certified Trainer Tips on Puppy Training Basics, Crate Training Guide: A Guide to Getting Your Dog Acquainted to a New Crate

Related Master Class Videos: Puppy Training with Amy Lear

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Read more about the article How to Clean Dog Toys

How to Clean Dog Toys

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The holidays bring about love, time with your family and fur babies, and lots of new toys! If your dog was on the nice list this year and got lots of new plush toys, rope toys, and chew toys for the holidays, you will want to make sure they last. What’s the safest way to clean dog toys? Comment below what your preferred cleaning method is!

Plush Toys and Rope Toys

yellow lab touching nose to a green huxley and kent christmas dino toy
Wash your dog’s plush toys to make them last!

Plush toys are usually the toys that your dog will latch on to and quickly become their favorites. While these plush toys have the highest chance of being destroyed, you can easily take care of them by washing them at least once a month. For those toys that your pup loves to tote around and snuggle with all day, even weekly cleanings might be best. Another thing to consider is if your dog likes to play with their toys after they eat. Especially dogs with a raw food diet, it would be best to disinfect even daily so that bacteria doesn’t spread throughout your home¹.

Plush toys and rope toys can be washed in a washing machine, but check the label of the toy to see their individual washing instructions. If your dog’s plush toy is particularly loved, consider placing the toy in a mesh laundry bag or a pillow case before throwing in the wash. This will help protect the toy from getting too damaged while getting cleaned.

If the toy does not have any plastic pieces, glue, crinkles, or squeakers, use hot water, the warm setting on the washing machine, to kill the bacteria, viruses, and dust mites, at least 140 degrees Fahrenheit¹. If the dog toy does have plastic pieces, glue, crinkles, or squeakers, use the cold setting so those features are not melted or damaged.

Before returning your dog’s favorite toy back to them, make sure the toy is completely dry. Air dry them for several hours, depending how big and plush they are, or stick in the dryer, if they do not contain and glue, plastic pieces, squeakers, or crinkles.

Rubber Chew Toys

For rubber chew toys, like KONG toys, and nylon chew toys, only put these in the dishwasher IF it has been specifically stated on the manufacturer tag that it is okay to do so. There is potential that the scalding water of the dishwasher could melt the toy or misshapen it and release harmful chemicals². If you are unsure, then it might be best to hand wash your dog’s chew toys instead. For chew toys that are caked in dirt, slime, slobber, etc., pre-soak in a solution of one part vinegar to two parts water for about 15 minutes before washing with soap and water. Unscented Dawn Dish Soap is a good pet-safe option or  just look for soaps that have no artificial dyes, bleach, chlorine, phthalates, or sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES)¹.

Pro-tip: you can also use this pre-soak for your plush toys or rope toys that are caked in grime, slime, slobber, etc. before throwing in the washing machine to ensure they come out nice and clean!

side profile of dalmatian with a red kong in mouth
Clean rubber toys to ensure your pet stays healthy!

Natural Cleaning Method

If you’d prefer a more natural method to cleaning your dog’s plush or rope toys, baking soda and white vinegar can do the trick¹. Prep the toy for the wash by sprinkling with baking soda and then adding a few capfuls of white distilled vinegar. White distilled vinegar is a great all-natural cleaner that breaks down grime and dirt. Then, put the toy in the washing machine on the rinse cycle.

Again, make sure the plush toy or rope toy is completely dry before giving back to your dog to play with for hours on end.

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Related blogs and master classes: Frequently Asked Questions: What Toys are Best for My Dog?, Frequently Asked Questions: What Toys are Best for My Cat?, Holiday Pet Safety: Keeping Your Dogs & Cats Healthy & Happy this Holiday Season

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