Caring for Your Dog’s Toys

Does your canine buddy have a favorite toy he loves to play with? Playing is very important for dogs. It helps keep them occupied, offers them beneficial mental stimulation, and encourages them to run and jump. It’s also fun! However, Fido’s toys can get, well, pretty icky. After all, your furry buddy uses his mouth to play. Read on as a local Hudson Valley, NY vet offers some tips on caring for your dog’s toys.

Stuffed Animals

Fido is super cute when he runs around with his favorite teddy bear or stuffed toy. Before you decide to wash these, inspect them and look for tears. If your pup’s plaything has basically been reduced to a scrap of crusty material, you’re probably better off to just throw it away and get him a new one. We also recommend removing any ribbons or cords, as well as any small pieces, like plastic noses, eyes, and buttons, as these can be choking hazards. If your canine friend’s toy passes inspection, you can put it in the washing machine. Use hot water and unscented detergent, and tumble dry on low.

Rubber/Plastic Toys

Many rubber and plastic toys, such as Kong toys, can go into the dishwasher. Use an old toothbrush to scrub away any gunk first. Choose the hottest cycle your dishwasher has. Don’t use any soap: the hot water and steam will clean and sanitize the toys.

Tennis Balls

Tennis balls can be washed in the washing machine. Use an unscented detergent, and let it air dry. These should also be discarded when they begin to tear.

Rope Toys

Does your furry pal love to play Tug-O-War? You can actually clean and sanitize Fido’s rope toy by soaking it in water and then microwaving it on high for one minute. Be sure to remove any metal parts first! Also, let it cool off and dry before you give it back to your dog.

Other Playthings

Some of your dog’s things, like rawhide chews, can’t really be washed. With these, you’ll want to rinse them off, put them in a baggie, and then freeze them for a day or two. They may not look much nicer afterwards, but at least they’ll be free of germs.

Please reach out to us, your local Hudson Valley, NY vet clinic, for all your dog’s veterinary care needs. We are here to help!