Holistic Pets

Executive Summary

The report examines the introduction of never seen before product called the ‘Hollywood Star’. The product is a toy designed for children between the ages of 8-13. It will generate a lot of buzz in the industry because no toy has been able to fulfill all the functions that this product can. The product consists of a DVD containing episodes of children’s favorite cartoons like Spiderman and Simpson’s. On top of that there will be a script that allows the child to practice acting skills while recording his/her voice using a microphone that will also be part of the assortment. The beauty about this product is that it is entertaining because of the DVDs containing their best superstars; it is also educative because their language skills will be polished through the attached script. The product is also enriching because it will develop the child’s talent in acting.

The Company will use thorough market research to find out what factors influence children within that age the bracket. It will then incorporate these ideas into advertisements done before and after the launch. The launch will be done by a well known child actor who will give them a first hand experience of what the Hollywood Star can do. The production team will consist of a number of professionals like engineers, accountants and drivers. All these members will be recruited after intense scrutiny to ensure that there will be no technical hitches at the onset of production. There will be continuous product improvement by introduction of another similar assortment containing musical instruments instead of a script. Financial and sales forecasts incorporating all the factors amounted to $24, 960.

1.0 Introduction

The Business plan will look at the launch of a new product. Its product name will be Hollywood Star. The product has a number of features that will make it stand out from the rest of the tots currently being offered in the market. The product is meant for children that are between the ages of eight and thirteen.

Barney (1997) ascertains that when introducing a new product in the market there are several issues that need to be addressed: A business should consider all the internal and external factors that will affect production. This can be done through the 4c’s, SWOT analysis and Porter’s five forces. After these issues have been critically examined then the entrepreneur(s) ought to come up with a mission, vision, name goals and objectives of the Company. Also, all legal matters need to be adequately catered for. After this, the entrepreneur ought to consider all of the management issues that will affect the organization. Then segmentation, research, strategy and other marketing issues should be incorporated. On top of this, location and the most important of all a budget must be made for the given product.

2.0 Industry analysis

2.1 Definition of the industry

The Toy industry is one of the most lucrative areas to engage in business in the United States. This is because of the fact that there is a lot of room for creativity in this industry; therefore entrepreneurs can be able to come up with their own products and offer something unique to the market. However, this trait is not something that is possessed by all businesses that enter the industry. This has brought about a lot of replication and imitations. The industry employs a lot of human labor and technology during production and therefore necessitates proper planning before embarking on a project as explained by Barney (1991)

2.2 Size, attractiveness, growth rates and trends in the industry

The industry is a large one; it has been in place for a very long time now. The Toy industry covers the whole country and even goes beyond the countries borders. It should also be noted that the most lucrative toy Companies are not found within the Country and mostly come from Asian countries like Asia and Japan.

The growth rate is also quite high. About fifty years ago, the industry was quite basic, it was not considered as an industry on its own but fell under the luxuries section. But much has changed since then; the economy has grown and parents consider toys as a priority for their children. Increased advertising and aggressive marketing has cause the growth of this sector.

The toy industry has been characterized by growth in market share for relatively new companies in the trade. This means that the intended Company has a high likelihood of surviving in the industry

2.3 Industry segmentation

There are various ways in which the toy market has been segmented. Some of theses are;

Gender segmentation; here, toys are made according to what fits a particular gender. For example, there are toys that are suitable for boys like water guns and cars, while others are suitable for girls like teddy bears and dolls.

Size segmentation; there are some toys in the market that are quite large and macro in nature. One such example is a house which a child can play in. then there are some that are small in size.

Segmentation based on special features; some toys have something unique in them like those ones that can record, play music or make specific moves while others are simply ordinary and have no special features added on to them.

Segmentation based on type; there are some toys that are made after influential people in children’s lives like cartoon characters (Dexter, Simpsons and Mr. Poodle), pop singers like Britney spears and Jessica Simpson or action figures like Spiderman and Superman. They are some that are based on animals or things. For example mobile phones, bears, dogs, balls, musical instruments etc.

2.4 Competitor analysis

The toy industry is one of the most competitive industries in the US market today. Competitors have realized that children are a very responsive market target. Besides this, the market is liberal and Companies need a patent and can start their business. Competition is also stiff because there re a lot of toy imports form Asian countries that are flooding the US market currently.  On top of that competitors are very creative when coming up with marketing ideas.

2.5 Situational analysis

2.51 Porter’s five forces

Porter’s five forces are essential in determining the degree of market penetration of the given Company or the strength of a particular market strategy as stated by Porter (1985). This is done by examining five key areas i.e.

2.511 Degree of rivalry; the new toy Company that will be introduced has to face a high degree of rivalry among other toy producers. To cope with this, the Company will have a unique, creative and solid product that it will be offering. Secondly, the Company will use low prices to boost sales and lastly, it will employ creative marketing ideas to stand out from the rest.

2.512 Threat of substitutes; Porter (1985) explains that threats of substitutes occur when products from another industry have the potential to replace those ones being offered by a specific Company. Fortunately, there are not very many industries that can substitute toys because the main function of toys is as play items for children. However, the entertainment industry through CDs and DVDs has a slight capability of achieving this.

2.513 Bargaining power of buyers; because toy companies in the US are many, yet the target group is the same, buyers have high bargaining power. The Company will use aggressive marketing skills to deal with this.

2.514 Bargaining power of suppliers; suppliers also have relatively high bargaining power. This is because raw materials for production of toys like plastic, paper cuts, glitters and fibers are used by other industries apart from toy companies thus giving suppliers an advantage.

2.515 Risk of new entry; the Company will also face this threat because there are no strict laws that prohibit entry –one simply needs to fulfill their legal obligations like getting a patent.

2.52 SWOT analysis- Anthony (1998) explains that this is done to asses internal and external; factors that affect a Company.

2.521 Strengths; the Company has an exceptional product on offer. Besides this, it will also offer other toys in the future. It will sell its toys at affordable prices, employ creativity in marketing and will maintain high product standards.

2.522 Weaknesses; because the Company will be relatively new, it may not have a strong brand image to fall back on. There are also some financial constraints that it has to deal with initially as there are no profits at the onset of business. The Company will also face competition from well established names in the toy industry like Barbie. But all these will offset once production is underway

2.523 Opportunities; the Company can take advantage of being new in the toy industry to establish itself. It can sell itself as being unique and may thus secure a strong market base. It should also make use of technology in production. Also increasing market share is another opportunity.

2.524 Threats; there have been cases of negative publicity where some toys have been labeled hazardous. Also, the government could impose restrictions on labor and technological use in toy production. Other competitors could copy their product and gain mileage over the Company. But it can deal with this through fulfilling all labor laws and ensuring that all supplies meet their legal obligations as suggested by Anthony (1998).

3.0 Business Issues

3.1 Vision and Mission of the Company

The Company will be called ‘Starsme’.

Its mission statement will be as follows; ‘to establish the Company’s product as the most innovative in the market, create worth in dealerships, promote production efficiency and to instill corporate social responsibility.’

The vision will be to ‘become the leader in toy manufacture in the United States’

The Company’ slogan will be ‘children’s wacky world of make belief!’

3.2 Business Competitive advantage

The Company will be new in the market and has an opportunity to market itself without any prior misconceptions that come with serving for too long in the industry. Besides, the Company has an extra ordinary product that has never been seen before in the toy market. The product to be offered is also multifunctional as it is educative and informative. Besides this, the Company will offer low prices for its products and will adopt high standards in manufacture. Dyer and Ernest (1991) ascertain that a very effective strategy for penetrating markets is through low pricing

3.3 Goals and Objectives

The goals of the Company will be based on the core values of maintaining product standards and enhancing productivity.

To offer high quality of toys that meet set standards for the US market
Engage in continuous innovation during production and marketing
Cultivate a culture of cohesiveness among employees
Continuously increase market share and profits through research and development, technology and

3.4 Performance reviews

Performance appraisals will be conducted depending on the nature of review being done. Overall Company performance will be reviewed on a quarterly basis i.e. after every three months. During this assessment, the Company’s profits will be examined that is both net and gross profit. Performance of the Company’ shares will also be assessed and total revenue will be compared to expenditure and suggestions for improvement to be done.

Performance reviews for departments and specific individuals in the Company will be done on a weekly basis. Special emphasis will go to the production team and the sales team. Members of staff will have specific targets that they are supposed to attain e.g. salespersons will have an amount like $ 2000 which they are supposed to bring to the Company after every week. Revenues collected and sets targets will be compared and differences discussed. The Company will hire external contractors to conduct performance appraisals for specific individuals and departments. Aaker  (1984) explains that when an external member is used results will seem more neutral; than if management conducted the performance appraisals themselves.

3.5 Legal Structure and Ownership

The Company will be limited and will be owned by shareholders. Maltby (2003) ascertains that this means that their liability will be limited by amounts of shares that have not been paid out. Profits are dispensed to shareholders. Also, voting rights will also be granted to those who have shares in the Company regarding maters related to Company ownership. The Company will be managed overly by a Board of Directors who will have well laid out duties and failure to fulfill these responsibilities could lead to court action.

There are a range of benefits that come out of such a scheme of ownership. These include;

It is a flexible model that is well established, the Company will be a separate legal entity

Shareholders will have limited liability; staff can decide to become shareholders too, it increases equity and financial debt and it facilitates innovation and efficiencies for profit making

Maltby (2003) asserts that despite the above benefits of this system of ownership, there are some limitations that will come with this system of ownership. The first is that this model presents some challenges in administration of pension schemes and a framework for accountability needs to be instituted.

3.8 Legal issues

The Company will obtain a license and IP protection. This license will give it the mandate to deal with all types of toys; this will cover the various segments that have been examined in the industry analysis above. The Company will obtain protection from Copyright infringement.

Another legal issue that will need to be addressed is shareholder privilege. There will be a Memorandum and Articles of Association that will guide shareholders on profit distribution as suggested by Maltby (2003) Company legislation will also help in the latter mentioned issue. Initially, the Company will contract for debt finance then it will later offer its shares up for sale after which profits will be given put as dividends.

3.9 Product Development in the future

The Company will start by the main product ‘Hollywood Star’. Then it will venture into similar types of toys through its research and development. After a period of about three years, the Company will expand its brand and will establish a brand family. This will occur after the Company has established itself in the industry; the Company can even obtain a patent for production of other items for children that do not necessarily fall in the toys category.

3.10 Risk analysis

There are a number of issues that have to be addressed prior to starting up the Company. First of all there is the danger that finances will is not enough to carry forward production. The manufacturing industry is an intricate connection of all stakeholders and finances are essential in the coordination of these areas. These may include recruitment of employees, production of the toys, and employment of technology among others. Aaker,  (1984) believes that this can be mitigated through proper budgeting before starting up the project- all the legal, human resource, production, technological and management issues should be well accounted for to minimize chances of ending the project abruptly.

Another risk is poor market response from the target market. This can be dealt with by doing a thorough market research on what appeals to the target market. Then these research findings can be employed in marketing strategies for the Company. The Company will make use of marketing tools that apply to children at that age. This is a suggestion obtained from Grant (2005)

Technical risks; these are another issues that may become a challenge at the onset of production. The product that is to be introduced is a complex product that will need techniques and skills from various professions. Because it will contain DVDs and microphones then it will need telecommunication engineers, it will also need mechanical engineers to assemble the product and sound engineers for installation and records of the script. Combining all these feature may prove to be a difficult task. But the risk can be minimized by employment of well qualified and experienced technicians. The technical crew can borrow ideas from other devices in the market that have similar elements. Production should start on a small scale first, and then if the product reaches acceptable standards its number can be increased.

4.0 Management Team

4.1 People, skills, roles and background

The Company will recruit members from a wide range of professions to work towards the Company’s goals. It will need accountants to take care of budgetary allocations. It will need numerous technicians in the production section. These will be; mechanical engineers, telecom engineers, electricians, plumbers and other people who will contribute towards the direct production of the product.

It will also need innovators who will include script writers, researchers and storytellers to come up with ideas for the script. In addition, other profession will be needed for non production sections of the Company. These are sales persons and sales directors, human resource managers and marketers. Besides this, there will be an IT department to record the entire goings on in departments found within the Company. Lastly, there will be casual laborers to deal with areas that do not require specific skills. Most of them will be found in the assembly/production section while others will be found in procurement, storage and supplies. These include drivers, store keepers, cleaners and guards.

However, since production will start at a small scale, there will be a minimum amount of people. The production team will have the largest number of staff members -fifty. Quinn & Rohrbaugh (1983) suggests such an approach. The Company will also have ten people in each section initially then this will grow with time.

4.2 Organizational structure

The Company will have a hierarchical type of organization structure; in this case there will be number of managers who manage different divisions of administration. Hatch (1993) elaborates that each manager has a group reporting to him it will be done this way because the Company will have a variety of employees. The Company will be undertaking a lot of activities thus there is a lot of diversity in the activities going on.

The advantage of this kind of structure is that it easily defines the responsibilities and roles of each worker. It also gives a great opportunity for developing ones professionalism, which is in line which the mission of the Company. This kind of management structure also gives the employees more opportunities for getting promotions and it has a clear leadership structure as emphasized by Collins (1998).

4.3 Use of external consultants and advisors

The Company will employ their services in the following areas; during performance appraisals to enhance credibility, during recruitment to ensure that credible members of staff are recruitment. When the Company is considering partnerships or other expansion ventures it will be essential that it engages services of consultants. Lastly, the advisors will be necessary when the Company changes type of ownership. For example if it decides to change from being a Company that is limited by shares to one that is limited by guarantee then it should first consult.

5.0 Marketing Plan

5.1 4 P’s

5.11 Price

The main concept behind any price decision is to balance between gratifying the customer’s needs while making profit for the organization also the Company will integrate its objectives. Since the product is new to the market, it must have a lower price to lure consumers. This is what is called tactful introductory pricing and this will be adopted but after establishment, then prices will be raised

5.12 Promotion

The Company will make serious use of advertising to promote the product. Collins (1998) says this is because it will allow the company to penetrate different market groups and it will give the product a lot of mileage. It will also use Public Relations by promoting goodwill among the target market through events, programs for children with needs and charities for needy children for the community.

5.13 Place

The Company will use personal retailing through its own stores. The reason the Company will do the retailing themselves is because there will be personalized service provision, it can get feedback directly from the consumer and eliminate all extra expenses that come with introduction of a chain.

5.14 Product

This will be the most crucial part of the marketing aspect mostly because innovation adds value to a given product according to Grant (2005) The toy will be called ‘Holy-Wood Star’ and it includes microphones, a book and a DVD. The product is basically similar to an acting lesson where the child is acting using the script in the book and his/her voice is recorded as one of the actors in the DVD. The DVD will have different episodes as written in the script. Besides this, the DVD will have prerecorded episodes of the Simpson’s, Barbie, Batman and Spiderman. Because of these additional features that product will be multifunctional. Children can improve their language skills while getting entertainment at the same time. They can also enhance their talents.

5.2 Target group/market segments

The product focuses on children from both genders. These children will be aged between the eight and thirteen years. The market will be segmented into two categories i.e. male and female. There will be toys for boys; these ones will have masculine colors and the script will also be related to what boys like. The same will apply to girls.

5.3 Buyers and influences

Children are mostly influenced by their peers who are in turn influenced by media. This is what the Company will focus on. It will choose moments when all the family members are seated to air its adverts. This will mostly be at dinner time. Children can then nag their parents to buy them Holly-Wood Star. Children also like going to the malls and many posters and promotions will placed in malls.

5.4 Detailed analysis of competing products and advantage over them

There are a number of action figures in the market like Spiderman and Superman. Some companies have prerecorded voices in these toys and these are serious force to recon with. Besides this, there are also some toys in the market that have musical instruments like a small piano. This allows children to enhance their singing talent. Such products are similar to the ‘Hollywood Star’ because they provide one of the functions that the product caters for. Dyer and Ernest (1991) assert that there are a product should stand out.

Most of the products in the market are singular in nature. For example, one may find that there are microphones for children, or scripts for them but no product has come as combination of all the features possessed in the Holy-Wood Star. This product is advantageous over all the others because it is educational, entertaining and allows growth of talents.

5.5 How to launch product

The Product will be launched in all major malls in the Country. This will happen within a period of two months. It will have been advertised on children’s magazines, television and the internet. Then the Company will choose a real life child actor to launch the product. This real life superstar will visit the various malls each weekend for the entire two months. She will read from a chapter in the script and will demonstrate how to use the product.

5.6 Market research

The Company will conduct market research to gain skills on what drives their target market. They will do this through questionnaires and interviews of randomly selected children in stores all over the country. The information collected will then be evaluated and analyzed. This will form the basis of their marketing campaigns

5.7 Strategy for releasing substitute products

At first, the Company will start by the two types of products. This will then be followed by toys that have some recorded musical notes. And a small piano, others will have a flute or small drums. All the above will come with DVDs and guidelines on how to play the instruments. This will help those children who may be talented in other areas other than acting. Al these will be introduced sequentially.

6.0 Operations

6.1 Physical locations, equipment required, how product will be produced

The Company will be located in the state of California. This is because it will be close to targeted market and will eliminate extra expenses that come from transportation. Barney (1997) asserts that operating costs like transportation need to be reduced to enhanced to increase returns.  Besides this, the company can have stores in theses and replenish supplies as soon as they are out.

The Company will require many technological devices. It will require software that can enable recording in the DVDs. There should also be semi conductors, and microchips for recording voices of the actors. The microphones will be bought from another supplier and will simply be assembled with the rest of the parts in ‘Starsme’. It will also require printing presses for compilation of the script. There will be a need for an assembly line. Here the various elements of the toy will be brought together. So there will be need for conveyer belts, punching machines, binders, DVD writers and

There will be incorporation of two aspects of production. The first is through the use of technology. Here most aspects of production will be automated. This will apply to the assembly line. However in the production of the specific features like the script writing, design of DVDs and voice arrangement will be done by individuals.

6.3 Quality control

The Company will have a quality Control section. In this area, there will be guide books that ensure that all aspects of the product comply with international qualities. The product will be checked to ensure that it is safe for use and that there is no danger of harm to the consumer. Sound will be tested to ensure that recording capabilities will have been enabled properly. Overall packaging and compilation will also be checked in this section.

6.4 Delivery of product

To add to the quality of the product, the Company will offer after sale services through delivery. The Company will hire a reputable courier to do this for them i.e. the courier will be fast yet affordable. Besides this, the product will sold at most stores in the country. These include Wal-Mart, Target and others. The Company will run its own stores where customers can purchase directly. The company will open up five of these stores countrywide. Dyer and Ernest (1991) explain that value of products is increased by after sale services.

6.5 Action plan

The following activities will occur in this order;

Purchase of land at the location – 2 weeks
Erecting production buildings and installation of equipments – 6 months
Securing suppliers for microphones, DVDs, recorders, software etc – 1 month
Recruitment of staff using assistance from consultants-2 weeks
Starting up production-continuous
Posting advertisements regarding launch-2 weeks
Product launch-2 months
Normal production of the product- continuous
Performance reviews-quarterly
Staff meetings-done on weekly basis
Launch of new brand-after two years

7.0 Finance

The following is a breakdown of all the sales forecast for the next twelve months. Product A will be a toy for girls, B will be for boys while C will be for either genders.

A

B

C

Price

100

150

200

Growth

30%

12%

3%

Gross Profit

40%

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Total

Product A

12

16

21

27

35

46

60

78

101

131

527

$1,200

$1,600

$2,100

$2,700

$3,500

$4,600

$6,000

$7,800

$10,100

$13,100

$52,700

Product B

13

15

17

19

21

24

27

30

34

38

238

$1,950

$2,250

$2,550

$2,850

$3,150

$3,600

$4,050

$4,500

$5,100

$5,700

$35,700

Product C

12

12

12

12

12

12

12

12

12

12

120

$2,400

$2,400

$2,400

$2,400

$2,400

$2,400

$2,400

$2,400

$2,400

$2,400

$24,000

$5,550

$6,250

$7,050

$7,950

$9,050

$10,600

$12,450

$14,700

$17,600

$21,200

$112,400

Revenue

$0

$0

$5,550

$6,250

$7,050

$7,950

$9,050

$10,600

$12,450

$14,700

$17,600

$21,200

$112,400

COGS

$0

$0

$3,330

$3,750

$4,230

$4,770

$5,430

$6,360

$7,470

$8,820

$10,560

$12,720

$67,440

Gross Profit

$0

$0

$2,220

$2,500

$2,820

$3,180

$3,620

$4,240

$4,980

$5,880

$7,040

$8,480

$44,960

salaries

$10,000

$10,000

$10,000

$10,000

$10,000

$10,000

$10,000

$10,000

$10,000

$10,000

$10,000

$10,000

$120,000

Net Profit

-$10,000

-$10,000

-$7,780

-$7,500

-$7,180

-$6,820

-$6,380

-$5,760

-$5,020

-$4,120

-$2,960

-$1,520

-$75,040

Cash position

-$10,000

-$20,000

-$27,780

-$35,280

-$42,460

-$49,280

-$55,660

-$61,420

-$66,440

-$70,560

-$73,520

-$75,040

Investment

100,000

Net Cash

$90,000

$80,000

$72,220

$64,720

$57,540

$50,720

$44,340

$38,580

$33,560

$29,440

$26,480

$24,960

Dec                                          Total

527

$52,700

238

$35,700

120

$24,000

$112,400

$112,400

$67,440

$44,960

131

$13,100

38

$5,700

12

$2,400

$21,200

$21,200

$12,720

$8,480

$10,000

-$1,520

-$75,040

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Tags:Business, Kids, Plan, Toys.
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WOOD

Birds need to chew, wood is an excellent material to satisfy this natural urge. Birds play most often with wood toys. Wooden toys are meant to be destroyed. Some bird owners may be frustrated by the destructive nature of their parrots. However, chewing is a natural instinct and vital to birds mental and physical well-being. If you provide only acrylic toys they will often find other, more expensive ways to satisfy their chewing needs (i.e., molding, furniture). It is important to know what woods are safe for your bird. Both soft and hardwoods are commonly used in toys.

Safe Woods (not a complete list):

Pine, Balsa, Birch, Basswood, Poplar, Maple, Walnut, Ash, Apple, Elm, Cactus (Cholla) and Manzanita

Unsafe Woods (not a complete list):

Cedar, Red Cherry, Plywood. Oak

If you like to make your own toys NEVER use pressure treated wood, it is treated with arsenic and will poison your bird. If using natural branches make sure they have not been exposed to insecticides. Also, take care to collect branches in areas removed from highways where plant life may have absorbed toxic emissions from cars. Scrub all branches with a non-toxic disinfectant (dilute chlorine bleach), rinse and dry thoroughly.

If you need to clean wood toys, don’t soak them. It is best to wipe them clean with a damp cloth or sand the soiled area until clean. If your bird likes to dunk his toys beware that moisture can promote bacterial growth and the toys should either be discarded or thoroughly cleaned and dried in a low temperature oven before returning them to the bird.

Birds are able to distinguish colors therefore color makes wood toys more attractive and interesting to birds. Manufacturers usually color wood with food coloring or vegetable dyes. We don’t believe in flavoring wood as the bird should not be encouraged to ingest the wood and, unless properly controlled, the fruit sugars often used provide a perfect medium for bacterial growth. Do not buy toys that have been stained or varnished to add color. If you are interested in a toy with painted parts (ie, ABC blocks) make sure that only non-toxic, child safe paints were used.

ROPE

Several kinds of rope are used in bird toys. Only 100% natural fiber ropes such as cotton, hemp (jute), or sisal should be used in bird toys. Nylon blend ropes should never be used as they can result in serious injury and cuts due to the strength of the strands if the birds get caught in it. Ropes can be safe as long as they are maintained properly and the bird’s beak and nails are kept trim. There have been safety problems noted when excessive fraying occurs. Birds have choked and lost circulation to legs by getting tangled in ill maintained ropes. Rope toys have proven very beneficial in solving feather picking problems and therefore we don’t like to discount rope as a viable material. Bird owners have a responsibility to check their bird’s rope toys daily and to cut back or discard rope toys when they become frayed and present a hazard to their bird.

CHAIN

Chain should have welded not open links. Un-welded chain provides sharp surfaces and narrow openings which have been known to cut toes. Make sure the links are a safe size for your bird, if toes get caught in the links the result can be broken toes or legs. Chain length is also a consideration as a long length of chain could conceivably end up wrapped around a bird’s neck during a vigorous play session. As the wood components are chewed off, a chain hazard could develop. Owners must monitor the status of toys and ensure that as they physically change safety hazards do not develop.

FASTENERS

This is a crucial area of concern as good fasteners are expensive and therefore many manufacturers cut corners and use potentially unsafe items such as split key rings or dog leash type snap hooks. Birds have been cut and lost circulation to toes and tongues on toys utilizing split rings and spring type clamps. For conures or larger birds we recommend either Quick-links (also sometimes called C-clamps) or Pear links to attach toys to the bird’s play area. They come in a variety of sizes and can be tightened with a wrench easily to prevent the bird from unhooking his toys. This type of fastener provides the least potential for injury. They are available in a variety of sizes and can be purchased from your local hardware store if needed to replace unsafe fasteners from existing toys.

Do not use split key rings, spring loaded clips or metal shower rings to fasten your toys. Small hardware pieces can be ingested accidentally. Birds have cut toes and tongues on split rings and spring type clamps.

ZINC

A lot has been mentioned recently about zinc toxicity in birds. Many bird toys are made with zinc coated (galvanized) metal components. Zinc is also commonly found in cage powder coatings. Some avian health specialists have stated that in order for zinc related health problems to result that the parrot must actually swallow the metal components and that “beaking” the parts is insufficient for toxicity to develop unless the galvanized coating is extremely brittle and flaky. If a bird spends a lot of time chewing on toy hardware (i.e., washers, quick links, wire) then it is possible they will ingest enough zinc to build up toxic levels in their systems over time. Owners who are worried about the possible health effects can often find stainless steel replacement components at their local hardware store. This option is also often much more cost effective to the consumer than buying toys constructed with stainless steel parts.

PLASTICS

Acrylics are used in many toys today and if sized properly to the bird are virtually indestructible. If purchasing acrylic toys we recommend the acrylic have a minimum thickness of 3/16?. Recently, there has been a shift back towards wood toys because although the acrylics are durable and attractive they are also not as fun for the bird who likes to chew. We recommend that a few of your birds toys be acrylic or a blend of acrylic and wood, they will be long lasting and the bright colors used are stimulating to your bird.

When considering toys with plastic components a bird owner must consider the nature of the plastic component (i.e., soft vs. brittle) relative to the size of the bird. Brittle plastics should not be given to larger birds because when they break very sharp, cutting edges are formed and if swallowed accidentally could result in ruptured organs. Hard plastic toys specifically designed for parakeets and cockatiels should not be given to larger birds with the beak power to destroy them.

LEATHER

Leather is a great material for birds to safely play with and chew on. Most birds especially like to spend hours untying knots made in leather strips.

Only vegetable tanned leather should be used on bird toys. Do not buy toys with dyed leather or leather tanned with chemicals as most are toxic to birds (i.e., chromium, formaldehyde). For this reason you should also not retire old shoes, belts and pocketbooks to your birds toy chest.

Replace leather if soiled or wet. Bacteria will flourish under these conditions. Many toy companies will sell replacement leather strips.

When hanging toys strung on leather (or rope or chain), avoid leaving a long strand between the toy and the cage. Some birds when rambunctious with their toys can get the leather wrapped around their necks and strangle. It is best to tie the toy close to the bars of the cage.

RINGS

When choosing toys with rings or large plastic chain links make sure that the rings are of a size that the bird can’t get his head stuck in them and choke. Also beware of toys with multiple rings looped directly together as birds have met similar fates when they have been trapped between the rings.

BELLS

Birds love to make noise and bells provide a fun source for their merrymaking. If a bird is mechanically inclined and can remove the clapper the potential exists for swallowing/choking. Make sure the bell clapper can not be removed by the bird. If it is not securely fastened either remove it or weld it (we recommend silver solder). Make sure the clapper is not lead (toxic), if it is lead you will be able to dent the clapper with your fingernail. Do not buys toys that use jingle type bells, toes can become caught and cut in the wide to narrow openings, we recommend the cow or liberty bell design. Appropriately size the bell to the bird so it will be able to withstand the power of the beak.

FINAL CONSIDERATIONS

Just because the label says the product is safe doesn’t mean that it’s OK for your bird. Any toy has the potential to be unsafe if improperly sized to the bird. Ask your toy vendor or bird store owner for help or advice on choosing a toy appropriate for your bird.

As with kids, no toy is 100% safe for all birds. Use common sense and supervise your bird when you first give him a new toy. Observe how he interacts with the toy to determine how best to hang it and where and when to allow him to play with it (some toys are safer outside the cage).

Provide a wide variety of toys and rotate them in and out of the cage or play area. Variety will help alleviate boredom and keep your bird more alert and curious. Keep 2-3 toys minimum in the birds cage and don’t overstuff the cage so the bird doesn’t have room to move.

Don’t assume that if your bird doesn’t like a toy that it won’t play with any toy. Try something different and take the time to observe what your bird finds interesting in terms of design, texture or size.

Introduce toys to baby birds but make them small…don’t intimidate them. Hand toys are some of the safest toys available and they are especially great for young birds as they help to develop hand-eye coordination.

Play with your bird…most birds think it’s great fun to chase balls across the floor or couch, play “catch” or “pick it up” with mom or dad.

This guide is by no means comprehensive but we have tried to address as many issues as possible. When in doubt, ask for help. We sincerely wish you a long, happy and healthy relationship with your bird.

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Molucan cockatoos make absolutely wonderful companions for the right people. Assuming you’re caring, dependable and motivated, owning a moluccan cockatoo will be both a fun and rewarding experience. They are sweet, verbal birds that require a lot of care from their owners. If you’re ready to purchase your first moluccan then follow my essential tips below.

First you will need check out bird cages for your moluccan. In general bigger cages are more ideal. Your bird should be able to fully spread its wings without hitting either side of the cage. You also want there to be plenty of roaming room. The cage you decide upon shouldn’t be smaller than 42×30x60 inches. The bars should ideally be about ¾ inches apart and make sure the door is large enough for you to comfortably reach your hand inside. Once you purchased your cage, cover the bottom with an easily cleanable substrate like corn cobs. You will need to remove and replace this substrate daily to keep your bird’s cage hygienic. You will also need to disinfect the cage with a non-toxic cleaner once every week. Also make sure to disinfect the bird toys, perches and cups on a weekly basis. When choosing a location in your home for your new molucan, make sure that you choose a place that is free of cold drafts or direct sunlight. Moluccan’s are very sensitive to drastic temperature changes. Stock up on high quality seed pellets made especially for moluccans. You will also want to feed your bird plenty of fresh, organic fruit, seeds and vegetables. Don’t forget to purchase plenty of wooden toys for your new bird. Moluccan’s are needy creatures, so they will need plenty to keep entertained when you’re aren’t around.

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Your children’s room and playroom may be the most exciting room in the house, but it can also be the most disorganized. If the closest you get to putting away your kid’s toys, stuffed animals, and games is throwing them on the floor, then you have a problem. But don’t worry, you don’t have to be embarrassed to have guests over. Clean up the disorganization with the following tips:

<b>Key Tip #1: Storage </b>

Storage items are critical when it comes to the organization of your child’s room, so the first thing you’ll need to do is clear some space. Even in a small room, storage items can save space. Here are some ideas that will fit any size room.

Probably the most ideal storage item for a child’s room is something you wouldn’t necessarily expect: fabric boxes. These have several major advantages over other types of storage. For one they are sturdy enough to hold practically any toy or plush animal, yet they are soft and free of sharp corners enough to be safe for children. They also come in many sizes, assuring appropriateness for any space. And lastly, they come in practically any color, meaning it’s easy to find one that fits the theme of your child’s room and matches perfectly. So once you choose a few of these colorful boxes, they can be placed in any empty corner, or even set right at the end of a bed, which is a very traditional place for a toy chest. And remember, organization doesn’t have to stop there, assuring that you have a chaotic box. You can get different sized storage boxes to organize toys by type. For example, get a small red basket to keep small toys in, such as cars and games. Then use a bigger, green box for the large toys, which could include plush toys and dolls. If you have extra large toys, such as giant teddy bears or life sized dolls, place them neatly on the floor, bed, or dresser as a piece of your decorating motif.

If you feel your floor space is too limited for this, here’s another option: hanging storage! Get a couple of colorful hanging wall baskets with pockets. These are extremely functional, save on space, and are fun besides! Place your hanging storage on the door or next to the window and you’ve got the perfect tool to keep your child’s room organized! Just having these storage boxes or baskets will put you on your way to a neat room. You’ll find that cleaning up all the clutter on a daily basis should only take 5 minutes or so, making creating a neat room a snap!

<b>Key Tip #2: Functionality</b>

The key to keeping a room organized is functionality. Even if your toy to space ratio is uneven, you can still keep the room ready for visitors. Just remember to use each space and piece of furniture for a specific purpose.

Room furnishings should be arranged in such a way that there is plenty of space for storage and storage boxes. Sometimes the furniture itself can play a part in this. You can get a higher bed, or add a leg extension, which will create room underneath the bed for you to place storage. This way smaller toys can have bins that fit under the bed and out of sight. Remember to categorize these boxes so certain types of toys go in them, which means you’ll always be able to find what you need. Also, if for some reason you’re not a fan of storage boxes and baskets, you could keep the floor organized by creating a “stuffed animal corner.” First start with the bigger plush toys, for example, lean a big stuffed dog against the wall corner. Then place the smaller toys around it (such as teddy bears and dolls) and other standing toys (like games and other items) can be placed under and beside. This way the toys aren’t spread all over, and give functionality to an otherwise empty, and boring, corner. While this might not be the easiest way to clean up, as you have to arrange the toys every time instead of just throwing them in bins, it does create a wonderful decorating motif.

So there you go, using these tips will make handling clutter in your child’s room a snap! Remember, a little organization will make every part of your house attractive and functional. As a last tip, teach your children to put away toys every time they are finished playing. This assures that not only will their rooms be guest ready at all times, but they will also be taught the all important value of responsibility!

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Parrots are very intelligent creatures that while in the wild get to indulge their curiosity by flying and exploring the world around them.  They tend to fly from tree to tree, peck at interesting things and forage for food.

What happens when this creature becomes a pet?  There is significantly less physical and mental activity unless the pet owner makes a conscious effort to provide both.  Parrots toys are a great way to provide mental stimulation and to generate some physical activity also.

One of the basic things to remember when choosing a toy for your parrot is DO pick something that is size appropriate. DON’T get a big toy for a small bird such as a Green-Cheek Conures or Quaker Parrot or a tiny toy for a larger bird such as a Cockatoo or Macaw.  This can be frustrating and can even lead to injuries.

When choosing parrot toys DO keep in mind the activities that your bird enjoys.  Parrots love to chew, they like shredding and they like to peer into nooks and crannies.  The best toys are those that build on these natural instincts and allow the birds to stay engaged while doing so.

Wooden and paper toys are good materials for them to chew on and toy manufacturers use soft to hard woods to provide varied levels of challenge for the birds.  Very often parrots toys include raw hide as it provides the birds something to chew on.

A variety of textures can be very stimulating to a parrot so DO pick parrot toys which incorporate varied materials or pick toys made of varied materials. Other than wood and paper, you will also find commercial toys that have introduced clothing material, cotton ropes, coconut fibers and raffia in imaginative ways so as to provide variety for the birds.

DO pick toys that have a puzzle quality to them as that will serve the purpose of mentally engaging the parrot. Some of these toys have a space where you can hide a nut or small treat because that will give the bird the joy of foraging and the emotional high of succeeding.

Remember that parrots are very intelligent,  and in that sense,  their toys have to serve the purpose that infant toys are supposed to serve.  It is to keep them entertained but it is also to ensure that they get to use their capabilities.

At this point,  it should also be pointed out that you need to gradually increase the complexity of your parrots’ toys. There is nothing more frustrating for you and your bird than to start with the most complicated toy in the market. Yes,  it may be the ultimate combination of texture and puzzle,  but it will be best to work up to that stage.  DON’T drop that on your parrot at the very beginning.

Toys can also be about physical exercise.  You would like to get your bird a lot of flying time but that may sometimes not be feasible.  A well chosen toy can help them work off some of their energy.  DO pick toys with movable parts such as ring swings and varied levels of dowels can encourage movement in parrots.

There are also foot toys which are specially intended for parrots to manipulate with their feet. There may be something to open and some simple mechanism to work which can keep parrots happily engaged for a while.

There is no overstating the emotional value of toys for parrots but there are a few things to keep in mind here. DON’T see your role as merely providing an extravagance of playthings and leaving the parrot to his or her own devices.

DO monitor the appeal of each toy you introduce and replace ones that are not working.  It will also be most productive to introduce one toy at a time and to rotate between a few so as to prevent boredom from over-exposure.

And remember that while the toys provide much needed stimulation,  it will not be a complete replacement of the time you need to interact with your smart pet.  Make sure you DON’T let that happen!

In terms of parrot safety,  DO make sure you select toys that are made of safe materials such as nontoxic plastic, natural fibers and organic dyes and untreated wood and avoid toys that have chemically processed leather,  zinc, lead or treated wood.

When you choose a toy with a rope element watch out for frayed material as this can be disastrous for parrots.  As mentioned earlier,  DO pick size appropriate toys so that your bird will not get a head or toe stuck in an awkward place or angle.

And as a part of your safety awareness,  DO inspect toys that your bird is playing with frequently and replace broken or worn out ones promptly.

It may take some thinking and choosing but your bird will definitely benefit from the effort you put into picking your parrot’s toys.

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One of the most popular souvenir items is the bobble head doll. Some people know it as a wobbler, a nodder or a bobbing head toy. It got its name from it distinction with other dolls. From the name itself, bobble head dolls are characterized by having a small body compared to its head. The head is attached to a spring and when it is tapped or moved even a little, the head then nods or bobbles. It is like the plaster cats you see on Chinese stores which wag their head when slightly moved. So who created it and how did it become popular? The modern bobble head was first introduced during the 1950’s.

Baseball event organizers have produced a bobble head toy series made of paper-mache and this is where people have started to buy it. Great baseball players during that time had their own nodder head version such as Roger Maris, Willie Mays, Roberto Clemente and many more. Another most sought after bobble head collection was of the Beatles. The band had a lot of fans and the bobble head dolls have sold out a lot of numbers. The wobbler fanatics from all over the world would want to have it. But there had been a transition in the use of materials for its manufacture. Some used wood and ceramic after a decade but still, the expenses of making it is still quite high so manufacturers sought of another way to make it less expensive. This is where the plastic bobble head toys came in.

The resurgence of wobbler dolls have been sought again. Popular stars, cartoon characters, basketball and football players have their miniature bobble head figures already. And some of it, made in limited numbers to be sought after by collectors. Nodder giveaways are still widely produced today. Sport event organizers see to it that they have wobbler versions of their greatest players and food chains such as McDonalds had their bobble head souvenir back then. Disney characters and movie stars have their nodding head dolls too. Collectors look for these rare finds on eBay and on vintage shops.

Some politicians even have a nodder doll giveaway as a form of political advertisement. Aside from that, these dolls are also used as a design for made-to-order trophies and they come in a variety of sizes and shapes. These bobble head toys are also ideal as a gift item for children and guys who have a huge fan on games such as soccer or baseball.

There are many manufacturers of wobble head toys these days. And the good thing is, you can have a custom made bobble head toy to give your loved ones or as a part of your collection. There are so many sites of bobbing head manufacturers on the internet and the costs may vary. You can specify the size, the color, the design and the material that will be used for your custom nodder. Check out these companies and see their great array of dolls and toys you can choose from.

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Many of us are very conscience about what we eat and drink, and opt for organic foods, vegetables and meats where we can. We also use eco products for washing ourselves and our clothes. However, when it comes to our Admin – ArticlesBasesex toys ‘green’ is not always the first thing on our minds!

What are Phthalates?

Greenpeace has recently called on the European Union to ban the use of chemical plastic softeners in sex toys because they contain substances known as phthalates.

Pronounced ‘thalates’ (the ‘ph’ is silent), phthalates are colourless oil-like chemicals that can make everything from vinyl to nail varnish more flexible, depending on the size of the molecules. They are also present in children’s toys to make them more sturdy when under pressure from biting or cracking. Between 1998 and 2000 there were numerous reports on the alleged health effects caused by phthalates. Some health and environmental activists are currently pushing for products such as toys and plastic food packaging containing phthalates to come under scrutiny and possibly carry stickers to advise consumers that phthalates are present in the product they are buying.

Some people even called for women to stop wearing nail varnish, just in case!

How does phthalates affect your sex toys?

It is important to understand what your toy is made from to enable you to make imformed choices about use, and health and hygiene. Products that contain phthalates can be identified by a plasticy smell…….remember that smell the last time you treated yourself to a new shower curtain? Toys that contain phthalates are made from jelly rubber and are likely to degrade over time. There is no hard scientific data available at present to show that phthalates in sex toys pose a risk to human health. The risk of contracting a health defect due to phthalates present in some sex toys is much less than the risk of contracting an infection from an unwashed sex toy, an STI from a shared sex toy or a heart attack brought on by excitement through using a sex toy. If you’re concerned, it’s sensible to make sure that each time you use one of these products you use a condom over the top of it. That way, you can give yourself peace of mind, protect yourself from STIs and still enjoy your favourite sex toy.

The good news is that all silicone toys are phthalates free! It is really fantastic to see manufacturers responding to customer concerns. Some manufacturers like Tantus and Top Cat have been proactive and eliminated the use of phthalates in their products.

We have also seen the phenomenal increase of Glass products on the market. They are made of hardened, blown glass similar to ‘Pyrex’, and so are very sturdy. What’s really remarkable about these toys is how stunning they are, and what personality they have. The shapes and designs are often practical as well as athestically pleasing.

The best advise if you are unsure of what your toy is made from or if it may contain phthalates is to contact your sex toys supplier. They will have, or have access to full details of the product.

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Bird toys are probably not amongst the first things, which come to mind when considering what is required in the care of a parrot. However, research has shown that Bird toys are very important for a parrot’s development. Choosing the right toys would provide your parrot with a safe and engaging environment to play and exercise in, both when confined in its parrot cage and even when left to roam around the house. However, choosing the incorrect toys can lead to boredom and even worse, injuries or death!

Screaming, biting, charging and feather plucking are a result of a bored bird. This bad behaviour can be suppressed if a parrot is kept engaged and active; especially during the time they’re in their parrot cage. One would expect the owner to let his parrot out of his cage a few times a day and interact with it and play with their toys, so one should think about toys suitable for both the parrot cage and outside.

Bird toys should provide your parrot with multiple functions. It is a good idea that a parrot cage is stocked with different types of toys, which exercise and stimulate your bird’s different inquisitive and curious needs. Some parrots like the idea of making noise and would play with different bells and other noise making toys for a long time. Others love chewing all day long and it is essential to provide these birds with Bird toys, which offer breaking and chewing opportunities, or else they might chew on their cage or your furniture when roaming around the house.

Puzzle toys are great at enhancing a bird’s problem solving skills. Mixing food with puzzle toys is a very good idea. One would find that birds will often abandon a dish full of treats in order to work one out of a treat puzzle. You’ll find that the prizes worked out of puzzles are enjoyed and eaten more fully than food offered in bowls. Other Bird toys, which allow climbing, are good to exercise and keep parrots in good physical shape. One thing in common amongst different toys should be colour – birds love bright and colourful toys!

One should take great care in finding Bird toys made of safe materials. Be careful as toys will not come with a label saying ‘Contains lead or arsenic’, so one should be careful and inspect before proceeding to the checkout. Preferably one should purchase Bird toys, which are made of safe plastics or organic, although even some wood such as cedar and oak can be dangerous to your parrot. Toy durability is also of concern as in case of breaking down; parrots can choke on small parts. One must make regular checks on the Bird toys state of deterioration, as like all other things, toys don’t last forever.

Your parrot needs to be stimulated and have fun with a lot of different toys. Enriching Bird toys provide captive parrots with activities and stimuli, which are similar to those, found in his natural habitat. By copying natural behaviours that promote mental challenge, parrots will be healthier and happier. It should be provided with toys, which won’t risk its safety, and in return it would provide with lots of quality time and fun to all the family.

Shop and buy small, medium, or a large parrot cage for you pet parrot and pet birds. All types and sizes of parrot cages and pet toys for your pet birds – http://www.birdcagesrepublic.com/

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How Much Playtime Do Cats Need? Cats needs at least 10-15 minutes of exercise three to four times a day. The exact amount varies with age, breed, health and physical condition.

Indoor cats need to play 3 to 4 times as much as outdoor cats to satisfy their needs for exercise. One hour of playful exercise increases your cat’s lifespan by 4 hours.

TIP: If your cat is neutered he is twice as likely to get chubby, so decrease his calories by one third and play more. Be creative think up games that stimulate your cat’s natural instincts.

Exercise Is Fun With Felines!

Exercise is integral to life. Not only is it essential for optimal health, it also improves circulation, stimulates vital organs, facilitates digestion and helps eliminate harmful toxins from the body. Exercise provides aerobic activity that stimulates your cat mentally and physically. Playful exercise is fun too. The more you play with your cat the more trusting and alert he’ll become. It is a great way to bond, and it is as good for you as it is for your cat. Most owners end up looking forward to this “special time” as much as their cats do.

Cats have different types of personalities, just like people. Figure out what kind of cat you have-shy, curious, sedate or wild. Adapt the type of play you choose to the personality of your cat.

Cat nip is a perfectly safe herb that many cats enjoy. Once a week, sprinkle the fresh herb on the floor or on a couple favorite toys. Cats generally play, roll and frolic. Your cat will have fun and so will you.

Exercise Goals

Exercise promotes confidence, self-esteem and well being. If you make the commitment to eat right and playfully exercise at least 10 minutes four times a day, you and your cat will look good and feel great! Exercise enhances your health, your looks and your life.

If you and your cat can’t exercise, feline massage is an alternative. It’s therapeutic and stimulates vital tissues. It’s also fun and feels great.

Cats love a ritual-especially before a good meal. Set play sessions for the same time each day and soon your cat will be there eagerly waiting for you.

The love you bestow on your cat and the relationship you share will become a source of continued happiness in your life.

TOYS

Toys provide a positive outlet for cats of all ages. Many are educational, some are interactive, and others are just plain fun. In additional to physical benefits,

they stimulate cats mentally; help prevent boredom, destruction and anxiety. Some toys are also a form of exercise like laser mice and many can be stuffed or rubbed with treats like catnip. Get a variety of toys and rotate them every few days.

GREAT SAFE CAT TOYS:

* Crumpled Paper Balls

* Peacock Feathers

* Empty Paper Bags

* Card Board Boxes

* Pieces of real fur (2 cm X 5 cm)

* Pinecones

* Ping Pong Balls

* A pile of shredded paper

* Empty 35MM film containers (or filled 1/3 with raw lentils)

* The occasional full toilet paper roll (for shredding)

Anything dangling from a fishing line makes a good toy:

Frozen green beans, Walnut shells, Sea-shells,

Plastic lids from bottled water, Leaves at the top of a Celery Stalk, Pipe Cleaners twisted up like Butterflies

TOYS

Cats judge toys based on their size, texture, sound and smell. Small, light weight items like crocheted mice, fish and birds especially with unpredictable, erratic movements are favorites for many felines.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

CREATE INTERACTIVE GAMES FOR YOUR CAT:

Kitty Hockey: throw a couple plastic rings from a milk jug on a smooth floor — your feline will fly for the puck

Create snakelike toys: then sneak & slither them over chairs and up & down stairs

Make a kitty racquetball court: put a ping pong ball in a small box and cut a small paw sized hole in one end

Create a feline obstacle course: place several boxes upside down or paper bags on their side and cut holes in each to enter & exit

Improve balance & coordination with a multi-leveled cat tree: entice your cat to jump from 1 perch to the next during interactive play sessions

Encourage scratching and stretching with a few sturdy scratching posts covered with hemp or the rough backing of a piece of carpet

INTERACTIVE GAMES

Wiggle a fishing line with feathers on one end over

perches, playgrounds and obstacle courses to get your cat to stretch and keep his muscles toned

FACT: Play is soothing to the soul-yours and your cats.

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Dogs are just dogs right? If they still lived in the wild and weren’t domesticated they wouldn’t have dog toys would they?

Well actually it’s because they are domesticated that our dogs need toys to replace activities or replicate in part, the lifestyle they would have experienced as wild animals.

The toys we provide our dogs meet these needs and help our dogs remain fit, well adjusted animals.

I like to categorise dog’s toys into four types:

1. Chewing Toys

Dogs need to chew, for a number of different reasons throughout their life stages. So, give your dogs items they are allowed to chew, and don’t leave them to pick on your prized possessions.

Puppies chew in order to ease tension, soothe their gums and to loosen puppy teeth to make way for their new teeth.

Adult dogs Chew to help maintain their jaw muscles, dogs also use chewing to pass time when on their own or ease boredom.

In senior dogs chewing the right things as well as helping ease boredom, also helps to avoid gum disease and tooth problems

2. Activity Toys

Activity dog toys help to keep domestic dogs fit and in addition to a healthy diet help to keep our pet dogs, in good shape, burning off calories that would otherwise be unused. Used wisely activity toys will also help to strengthen a dog’s muscles, which along with diet, reinforces good bone structure.

Regular interaction with constructive play will help build good relations with your dog these activities can be used to encourage good behaviour in your pet. For example the throwing of a favourite retrieval toy can be used as a reward for sitting or staying.

The choice of activity dog toys these days is huge, with the traditional Balls, Frisbees and Fetch toys coming in a bewildering number of varieties and materials.

When not sleeping, puppies go through periods in the day when they have a huge amount of energy to burn. Care should be taken not to over exercise, but plenty of varied play will help build bonds with owners and avoid destructive tendencies showing.

Adult dogs need exercise to keep muscles, bones and organs working in top order. The right amount of active play will also help to avoid periods of boredom in a normal healthy adult. This will help to reduce the risk of destructive or attention seeking tendencies manifesting themselves in your pet.

Regular but reduced amounts of activity will help maintain healthy joints in a senior dog.

3. Reward Toys

As wild animals it would be rare for dogs to spend time on their alone, but as domestic pets most will spend time on their own at some stage. Because boredom can lead to destructive behaviour, it is essential that you provide your dog with appropriate toys that fight monotony and offer enticing play, sometimes this may be met with a reward such as carefully hidden treat.

Apart from having chew toys available, your puppy will react well to having toys that reward him by reacting with sound, movement or giving treats. This is another way of avoiding destructive behaviour.

Many adult dogs respond well to having a toy that will help them to stay alert or be challenged when left on their own.

4. Soothing or Comfort Toys

These toys are not necessarily needed by all types of dogs, however there may be many times in a dog’s life when the need to soothe and calm is required. Travel, trips to the vet, illness or noisy periods are all times when aid in calming and soothing could be beneficial.

A comfort toy can ease the separation from a mother or smooth the transition from being a litter member

In addition providing comfort toys are usually tough enough to allow adult dogs to carry them around, often adult or maturing dogs will occupy themselves with a mock kill game.

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