Recently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reversed its position on bisphenol-A (or BPA), an additive used in plastic products that it originally declared safe in 2008. Environmental and health activists have been fighting to ban the use of BPA for years, especially in children’s products. Many manufacturers have discontinued the use of BPA in their products (remember the Nalgene scare?) and the government announced that it will allocate $30 million to research BPA in humans and animals over the next two years. Check out this New York Times article for more info.
In the meantime, I would highly recommend purchasing products without BPA, including the toys for your dogs and cats. In my research, I found products that are toxic-free and fully recyclable. West Paw Design, located in Montana, makes eco-friendly products ranging from chew toys to recycled doggie sweaters to organic cotton dog beds. All chew toys are made of Zogoflex, a toxic-free and durable material made in the US. The company welcomes questions because they want you (and your dog) to feel confident about the safety of their products.
.jpg "Zogoflex Tux Toys, West Paw Design")
Another great product from West Paw Design are ReKnitz sweaters which are made from reclaimed cotton fibers. Reusing these fibers reduces waste because manufacturing cotton uses a lot of energy and chemicals. Find out more and view additional patterns here.
.jpg "ReKnitz Dog Sweaters, West Paw Design")
Chewber is another company that makes a BPA-free product called the Chewber. It is a rubber frisbee-esque toy that can also serve as a water bowl. There are three styles: Mini-Chew, All-in-One, and Tug N’ Toss and all are made from non-toxic rubber and pigments.
I’m sure there are several other companies making BPA-free products – if you’ve got any to share, please let us know!
Dog Photographer – Nashville, TN
Adrian Hitt Photography
www.adrianhitt.com
615•715•4655
by STUDIO MANAGER
Great shoot. I will pass it along to all my friends.