My wonderful dog died a few weeks ago. Ginger was my best friend and I love dogs so I know I will want another one at some point, but I'm not ready yet. Ginger had a lot of toys. She had her favorites, but a bunch of them she never played with so I donated them to our local rescue organization. They were really happy to get them. I just wanted to pass this along for other people who might have extra dog toys and wonder what to do with them.
Donating pre-owned and gently used pet toys is a great way to repurpose them and make sure they don't go to waste. When my dog Simone died last year, she left quite a legacy of toys along with warm memories. Actually, her toy basket contained an embarrassment of riches. Many of the toys had never been used because Simone wasn't interested in them or they weren't the right size or shape or texture.
I kept a couple of her favorites, their threadbare condition an obvious indication of how much she had enjoyed them. One is a stuffed, fabric carrot. Every time I look at it, I flash back to Simone stretched out on the floor, happily chomping on the carrot to make it squeak. Other less-used toys I donated, as you did, to a rescue group, while I gave some to friends with dogs.
Local humane societies, animal shelters and rescue groups always have lists of items they need. The Humane Society of Pulaski County, for example, posts a wish list on its website (warmhearts.org) that includes pet toys as well as food, collars, bedding, leashes and other items. Maumelle Friends of Animals asks for toys, treats, kennels, crates and kitty litter.
People who want to donate toys to a specific organization need to check that group's list to see if there are any restrictions or specific requests. Some groups ask that people not give rope chew toys or stuffed toys with beads. Other may ask for extra-sturdy hard rubber chew toys for strong-jawed dogs.
Before donating, make sure the toys are clean. I tossed fabric toys in the washing machine; they all survived that and being tumbled in the clothes dryer. Rubber and plastic toys can be cleaned with soap and water.
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As any pet owner knows, there's no such thing as a free pet. Besides health care, they need basic supplies such as a crate for trips to the veterinarian and other travel. They need food bowls, comfy beds, leashes and harnesses. Then there are the fun things like toys, clothing and costumes.
People interested in cutting costs can look for new items on sale, but might also consider the secondhand market, suggests an article in the holiday edition of Dogster magazine. Secondhand pet items can be found at yard sales, estate sales, flea markets and thrift stores. Yard sales are great places for finding doggy sweaters and other outfits. I once scored a doggy elf costume for $1. It's not something I would have bought for full ($24.99, according to the original price tag still on the costume) or even half price, but for a buck it was a find. And Simone looked adorable in it.
When buying used pet items, Dogster magazine says to inspect them for signs of over-use. Make sure fabric toys aren't torn or losing stuffing. Squeaky toys should squeak, collar fasteners should still fasten securely and nylon leashes shouldn't have any frayed areas.
Shopping for secondhand pet supplies can be fun and rewarding. Our furkids deserve the best, but the best doesn't have to break the bank.
Family on 11/18/2015