Dog lovers love their dogs and want them to be happy. That's why they often pamper their dogs with toys, more toys and even
more toys.
Today are a great way to help keep your dog happy and healthy. But today I'd like to talk about what toys are "not". Toys are NOT a babysitter – or pet sitter – for your dog.
The other day I saw a dog that had eaten part of his toy (for the 5th time in his life) and was going to require surgery to remove it. His owner showers him with toys and leaves him for 12 hours a day (or more). Then the owner comes home to lie on the sofa. For the dog, no walks and no play time.
HELLOOOOOOOO. Is anyone home?
Before I go any further, let me introduce myself for those of you that don't know me. I'm the Irreverent Veterinarian. I speak my mind and give you my honest opinion. I won't sweet-talk you or sugarcoat the truth. I tell it like it is – to you, the drug companies, the pet product manufacturers, professional breeders and pet owners. Some might say that I'm truthful to a fault. Some of the pet owners, drug companies, pet product manufacturers and breeders who read my columns get really angry. It is hard hearing the truth.
So, let's get back to the subject of toys. I realize that some dogs are really tough. And even the best-intentioned owner cannot keep EVERY little thing that can be ingested out of their dog's reach. I understand that.
But there are also the owners that shower their pets with gifts rather than time. Does that sound familiar?
Do you know any kids pampered with x-boxes, games, iPhones, iPads, designer clothes and more while there parents are doing other things besides spending time with them?
There must be a balance for kids – and for dogs.
I want to point out a few things:
More than anything, dogs want you to spend time with them. All the money in the world won't make them happier than a little of your time.
No toy is a replacement for human interaction. Some of my favorite toys require involvement and interaction between dog and owner, such as the Chase 'n Chomp – a very cool fetch toy.
No toy is indestructible. There are dogs that will chew up and destroy anything and everything. Don't think that your lack of supervision makes it the fault of the toy company when your pet eats something he shouldn't.
Don't get me wrong. There are great toys for dogs. And some dogs have different play preferences. Here is a great article to learn how to pick the right toys for your dog, go to: http://www.petplace.com/dogs/dog-toys-what-s-on-your-dog-s-wish-list/page1.aspx
My Final Thoughts on Why Toys Are Not Pet Sitters
Don't use toys instead of time to keep your dog happy. They mostly want your company and kind words.
If your dog chews, destroys or ingests toys – don't assume it is the manufacture's fault. You need to supervise your dog and know what kind of player he is. If he destroys stuffed toys and you get him another stuffed toy, he will probably destroy that one too. You need to supervise and watch your dog.
Disclaimer
The Irreverent Vet is a columnist that regularly contributes to PetPlace.com. The goal is to add a balanced and alternative view of some controversial pet issues. As happens with all of us, veterinarians can't always say what they really think without offending some clients. This commentary allows vets to say what they think and give you, the pet owner, the opportunity to consider another point of view. All opinions are those of the Irreverent Vet and not the views of PetPlace.com and are not endorsed by PetPlace.com.
