All is not rosy here, either. Rawhide chews, treated with chemicals, have been known to cause choking and intestinal blockage. Some of the residues found in poorly processed animal hides are lead, arsenic, mercury, chromium salts, and formaldehyde. If you do give your pup rawhide chews, choose high-grade ones made in this country. Smoked products, which smell barbecued, can also be dangerous.
Wood smoke contains approximately two hundred compounds, some of which are carcinogenic.
Plastic chew toys are made of petrochemical polymers like polyurethane and nylon. Pig's ears and noses are processed with chemicals and are dyed. But, of course, most dogs need to chew. Try commercial chews from environment-friendly companies like Doctors Foster and Smith, Pet Factory, and Ecology Rawhide Treats, or occasionally give your dog large raw or lightly cooked bones, carefully monitored. If your cat or rabbit uses litter, be aware of what's in many of these products.