Instructions
Avoid painted toys, which contain the highest levels of lead, and toys made from vinyl and soft plastics. Also avoid toys with rhinestones and trinkets; these are more likely to contain lead or other harmful chemicals.
Look for a brand name on the package and don't purchase any products without a brand name. Stores such as Wal-Mart and dollar stores often carry pet toys in clear plastic packages without brand names.
Purchase only toys that are made in the United States by a company with a reputation you feel you can trust. Kong, for instance, is a popular and reputable maker of dog toys. They have stated that all of their products are made in the U.S. with the exception of a few that are made in China. They claim, however, that all of their imported products are tested by independent laboratories, first in China and again in the U.S. to prove they are safe and non-toxic.
Look for proof of safety testing on the package. If it's not included, research or check with the manufacturer.
Buy toys at stores that sell pet supplies exclusively, rather than at variety or grocery stores.
How to Buy Lead Free Pet Toys
There are guidelines for the amount of lead considered to be safe in children's toys, but unfortunately, there are currently no regulations for pet toys. And considering how pets lick, chew and swallow their toys, there is good reason to be concerned about lead content. The following are precautions to take when choosing pet toys.