Outbound Hound - Travel Unleashed

Recently I have had conversations with friends about tennis balls and dogs. Turns out, there can be quite a bit of lead and other chemicals in tennis balls and other dog toys. Incredible!

Of course, as a disclaimer, I should tell you that the data on lead content in tennis balls and dog toys is seriously debated. I mean, no one agrees on how much lead is safe for dogs and, not surprisingly, this area is not regulated for pets. Plus, what might be OK for a St. Bernard could be bad for a Chihuahua. Ugh!

But here is one thing on which most will agree. Toys made in China contain more lead (and other chemicals) than those made in other countries, especially the US where lead is a no-no. As for tennis balls, unfortunately those sold at pet store chains were singled out to be the worst (tennis ball) offenders.

Here are a few datapoints (thanks to the magazine, Animal Wellness):

• In 2007, Texas lab ExperTox tested toys from Wal-Mart and found lead, chromium, arsenic, cadmium and mercury.
• According to the article and Dr. Sharon Gwaltney, Vice President of the ASPCA’s Animal Poision Control Center, lead is trouble. It can cause abnormal behavior, vomiting, diarrhea, hiding in dark places, convulsions, anemia, weight loss and, if untreated, death.

Seriously?

The article goes on to present the “other side” of the argument saying that there is still no “proof” that certain levels of lead cause harm, and, of course, not every dog is affected.

So now what?

I hate to say it, but avoid made in China products whenever possible. If you have questions, check the product’s website. Painted items are going to be the worst offenders. Toys made in the US and Europe are manufactured under the toughest standards so try to find those.

Unfortunately, you’ll be hard pressed to find a can of tennis balls made in the US, but try. And PLEASE let us know if you find any!