Where My Toys At?

Because our four-legged friends are gives us unlimited amounts of entertainment, I think it's only fair that we give back a little.  The way to go?  Toys.  Companionship and food are followed closely by toys in a dog's hierarchy of life fulfillment.

They don't have to be expensive either.











Cats love things they can play inside of and dogs love things they snuggle, kill or both.  It's pretty simple.  

This grocery bag has two functions.

For cats, I would recommend scratching toys (if they are not de-clawed).  Cat have an innate physiological need to scratch the shit out of stuff.  It satisfies them like any normal craving we would have for something (eating, playing games, sky-diving).  If you don't give them the toy option, it's your own fault if they destroy your sofa.  No amount of discipline will ever, EVER keep your cat from scratching.  Scratching toys can be anything from a post to small mice or balls made of sisal (a bendable, durable fiber much like hemp).

Playful dogs will play with just about anything with which that you engage them.  Stuffed animals, ropes, balls, etc.  If you are looking for something that a dog can play with on his own (because sometimes we need our alone time), choose a toy that you can stuff treats in.  You can even use low sodium peanut butter on any toy to get them interested.
 


I will leave you with a few specific suggestions for dog and cat toys.  I've bought hundreds of dollars worth, so I consider myself an expert in this particular field.

1. The Kong - This large rubber funnel-type toy is virtually indestructible.  Notice I say "virtually" (as most toy tags will boast) because no toy will ever last forever.  This toy is great for dog or cats.  You can put a treat or peanut butter in the center to keep them interested, and the flexible rubber massages their gums (good for hygiene and teething) while they chew.
2. Dr. Noys Stuffing-Free Toys - This product is made by Kong and comes in a variety of sizes and animals.  It's obviously great because there is no stuffing inside.  When they eventually tear it apart, guess what?  Nothing comes out.  That is, except for the squeaker.  This is extremely convenient for obvious reasons, but it also comes with extra squeakers to put in the toy after the previous one has died.
3. Mylar Mice or Balls - This is my favorite cat toy in the world.  They are made of stiff mylar (metalized nylon - think of film) which makes an intriguing "crinkle" sounds when touched.  It also bright and very light-reflective.  Ollie loses every toy she ever gets, so it's also helpful that these mice are never over a buck a piece.  Perfect.

Pet toys are expensive.  I mean ridiculous.  When you're looking, find something that seems durable and engaging.  I would never spend fifteen bucks on a toy they would tear apart in five minutes.  And, they just won't let you return half-eaten stuffed sheep.  Understand that they will like just about anything you bring home.  Just use your noggin on this one!