It is not unusual for pet owners to give their furry companions gifts on their birthdays or at Christmastime. Choices generally include pet toys or pet wear such as coats or hats. Of course, pet fashion gift ideas can also include simple items like dog or cat collars. Keep in mind though that for every pet gift the issue of safety should never be ignored. Pet products will vary in quality just like everything else. Some potential hazards to watch out for include:

• Sharp edges on toys
• Coats with drawstrings which can cause choking
• Stuffing that could be swallowed
• Glued on pieces that could become detached

Remember that some pets will try to chew their toys and anything that breaks off could be swallowed. A few important safety tips are:

• Keep your pet’s size in mind when buying toys. Never buy them anything that may be too small.
• Stick with recognized makers or sellers of pet products. Trying to save money by buying cheaper items could spell disaster for your pet.
• Cat playtime should always involve the owner. Don’t just give them a toy and leave them alone.
• Check toys for small pieces that are glued or screwed on. The best options are those that are simple standalone toys with no attachments.
• Don’t use old children’s toys for your pets.

We all want our pets to be safe at all times. Spend as much time with them as your schedule allows. Do some research on the safest pet toys and pet fashions and you will find many suitable choices.