Should dogs drink out of stainless steel bowls
Are Your Dogs Food Bowls Safe? A Pet Bowl Materials Guide
There are a wide number and types of dog bowls on the market today. Stainless steel, plastic, silicone, ceramic, stoneware, bamboo, non-skid, slow-feeding, non-spill, and yes, even automated portion-sized ones. However, with so many options out there, how is one suppose to decide which one to get?
More importantly, which types of dog bowls are safe?
Here at BarkThink, we did some research for you on the different types of dog food bowls on the market. Here is what we found:
PLASTIC DOG BOWL
The most popular and commonly used material for dog bowls is plastic. But, did you know that these types of bowls can be the most dangerous and riskiest bowls to feed your pet with? Lets look into some of the reasons why
Durability. For young and teething pups out there, a feeder bowl occasionally becomes another chew toy to be destroyed and eaten. All it takes is a few minutes without your supervision and these pieces of plastic can cause internal bleeding or intestinal blockage (and likely a huge vet bill).
Bad Bacteria. Highly porous and easily scratched, plastic bowls are prone to developing cracks and crevices that can harbor unhealthy bacteria for your furry friend.
Bisphenol A (BPA). Im sure many of you are familiar with BPA by now. Every few years, there are news headlines regarding the hazards of plasticsmost recently it has been about a chemical known as Bisphenol A, or BPA, that was found in baby products, sports bottles, and several other products used to hold edibles.
BPA is a synthetic estrogen commonly used to harden polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resin; however, extensive studies has shown that, even at low amounts to which people are routinely exposed, it can cause serious and sometimes irreversible damage to health. According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), in laboratory tests, trace BPA exposure has been shown to disrupt the endocrine system and trigger a wide variety of disorders, including chromosomal and reproductive system abnormalities, impaired brain and neurological functions, cancer, cardiovascular system damage, adult-onset diabetes, early puberty, obesity, and resistance to chemotherapy. With this type of effect on humans, just imagine what BPA could be doing to our dogsmost of whom are much smaller!
Phthalates.Ever been curious about the No Phthalates disclaimer on those BPA-Free labels? Phthalates are dangerous chemicals that can also be emitted by plastic products. These chemicals, also known as plasticizers, are a group of industrial chemicals used to make plastics more flexible or resilient such as its application in polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Phthalates are also used as solventssubstance that are used to dissolve a solute (a chemically different liquid, solid, or gas) into a solution. Phthalates are used in many items in our society including toys, food packaging, adhesives, vinyl flooring, hair spray, shampoo, and food bowls. However, the human effects of phthalates are not yet fully known but is currently being studied by several government agencies. In the
Twelfth Report on Carcinogens published by the National Toxicology Programin 2011, di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate is listed as reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen.
Other concerns. As you will see on HealthyStuff.organ organization that conducts research testing on consumer products for levels of lead, chlorine, arsenic, and other concerning chemicalsreveals several plastic pet bowls containing medium levels of lead despite being BPA-free and certified as food-safe by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Any of these chemicals can leach from plastic containers into your dogs food and water, potentially exposing them to dangerous chemicals with harmful side effects.
It is unfortunate because there are several food-safe plastics, such as those used in human plastics identified by their recycling codes. Sadly, the pet industry is slow to add this information to their products. As a result, we are often left not knowing which plastic pet bowl is safe and which ones are unsafe until it is recalled or completely removed from the market.
Sure, there are some safe plastic pet bowls out there; but how are you suppose to know which ones really are?
CERAMIC DOG BOWL
Ceramic pet bowls can be a good choice if you do some homework, choose carefully, and take care of them. The biggest concern is to ensure that the glazes used to coat the dog bowls does not contain lead or other harmful chemicals. Therefore, when selecting a ceramic bowl, make sure that certified for food use and it is coated with a lead-free glaze. It is important to routinely inspect the bowls for cracks and chips because these areas can harbor harmful bacteria. You also would not want your dog to accidentally ingest any loose pieces that can continue to break off from preexisting cracked or chipped areas.
STONEWARE DOG BOWL
There was not much concerns I had for stoneware pet bowlsuntil I learned about some of the moderate levels of dangerous lead in several everyday products including stoneware pet bowls in HealthyStuff.orgs 2009 research. Sure, small traces of lead seems to be in nearly every other item these days. In fact, out of the 400 pet products tested, a quarter of the items had detectable levels of lead. However, 7 percent of the tested products had lead levels that exceed 300 ppmthe standard for lead in childrens product set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Until it is tested, how are you suppose to know which stoneware pet bowls are truly lead-free or not?
According to the EWG, the insidious symptoms of slow lead poisoning includes infertility, mood swings, impaired intellect, memory loss, nerve, joint and muscle disorders, skeletal, renal, kidney, and cardiovascular problems, and possibly cancer. While some manufacturers advertise their stoneware bowls as lead-free; being the way I am, I still have my hesitations and doubts. However, Id still recommend stoneware over plastic bowls given the fewer concerning drawbacks.
SILICONE DOG BOWL
Silicone is one of the newest alternatives on the market today and its easy to see why. Nontoxic, nonstick, and rubber-like; high quality silicone products are highly heat-resistant (can be used with boiling water or in the oven if needed), does not retain stains or odors, and can be space-saving due to its collapsible feature.
So what exactly is silicone? Silicones are inert, synthetic compounds consisting of polymers that includes silicon together with carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and occasionally other elements.
Unfortunately for me, due to its form and rigidity (or lack thereof), it is not very functional as a permanent pet bowl. It is, however, an outstanding collapsible dog bowl (and even human cereal bowl) for hiking, camping, and traveling! According to my wife, a chemist, silicone is one of the most stable compounds available and, due to its chemical composition and difficulty in producing free radicals (such as upon exposure to UV radiation), is chemically inert.
STAINLESS STEEL DOG BOWL
Ahstainless steel, the go-to choice for professional chefs, medical professionals, andthe Queen Dame (wife) of the household. Stainless steel dog bowls are non-porous which discourages bacteria, non-leaching, rust-resistant, and much easier to sanitize (dishwasher anyone?) properly. Although not perfect, stainless steel is exposed to far fewer chemicals than plastic products during the manufacturing process.
The most recent scare regarding stainless steel dog bowls occurred in mid-2012 when less than a dozen Petco stores throughout Illinois received stainless steel bowls containing low levels of radiation due to small quantities of Cobalt-60 being accidentally mixed in during the manufacturing process. According to Petcos notice, the affected products were limited to two cargo containers that entered the United States in late May and early June. Other than that, I have am not aware of any other significant drawbacks to using stainless steel pet bowls.
WHAT TYPE OF DOG BOWL BARKTHINK USE AND RECOMMEND
So are dogs and pet owners to do? Here at BarkThink, we recommend stainless steel
If properly cared for, stainless steel pet bowls will not trap dangerous bacteria or leach harmful chemicals. Care is pretty straight-forward and easy. Clean it out after every use with soap and hot water for sanitary reasons and avoid cleaning with abrasive materials such as steel wool. Or, if youre like me, just toss it into the dishwasher to sanitize. For an eco-friendly and low-cost alternative, clean with a simple mixture of vinegar and water.
Remember, be mindful of what you store your pet food in as well. The majority of pet storage containers are made of plastic; but there are a few alternative food storage containers coming onto the market now.
Share some of your dog bowls experiences with us! BarkThink, stay informed, learn more, and stay on top of thought-provoking topics with us!
Is It Safe For Dogs to Drink Out of Communal Water Bowls?
When youre out and about at a dog park or on an outdoor adventure, its convenient to spot a communal water bowl available to hydrate your precious pup.
However, communal water bowls come with some hidden risks. Your dog may be lapping up bacteria, viruses, or parasites when they quench their thirst. Obviously, its really important to keep your canine companion hydrated dehydration can lead toheatstroke, adry nose, vomiting, loss of appetite, and more. But are communal water bowls the best option for your dog?
Heres what you need to know to keep your dog cool and hydrated safely when youre out and about.
Are Communal Water Bowls Safe?
All communal or public water bowls pose a potential health risk to your dog. It is possible for dogs drinking out of communal bowls or fountains to be infected with diseases or parasites.
While contagious diseases in dogs are more commonly spread through coughing or sneezing, it is possible for dogs to be exposed to pathogens when communal water bowls are contaminated. In general, it is safer to have a separate water source for your dog.
How Communal Bowls Can Spread Diseases and Parasites
Shared dog bowls hold more than water. In fact, they can be an incubator for all kinds of diseases. Unfortunately, its really easy for any communal water bowl in any environment (whether its a restaurant patio, storefront, dog park, or beach) to become contaminated.
While its often common to see these bowls available to the public, theres no way to know how regularly theyve been cleaned. These bowls could be filled with stagnant water thats not safe to drink, as stagnant water can be contaminated with environmental items like leaves or hold bacteria and parasites.
Communal water bowls can also be contaminated with fecal matter. While you probably wont see a dog pooping in their water, think about how often you see dogs using their paws in a water bowl. If theyve recently stepped in poop (or sniffed another dogs butt), their paws and snouts can pass fecal matter onto water bowls.
Rodents can also urinate or defecate in these bowls especially when they are left outside or in areas where theres litter or food on the ground, like on a sidewalk or restaurant patio.
Here are a few of the diseases that can be spread from dog to dog through a communal bowl. Diseases are spread through contamination of the water itself or even the dog bowls.
Intestinal Worm Parasites
Fecal-contaminated communal water bowls can make a welcoming home for many intestinal and internal parasiteslike roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms. These intestinal worm parasitescan cause anything from irritation to serious illness.
Giardia
Giardia is spread through fecal contamination and it can often be found in standing water like puddles or bowls.Giardiais an intestinal parasite that can cause diarrhea in dogs since it hurts their ability to absorb water and nutrients. Giardia is an especially pesky problem as it can travel from dog to dog, and is dangerous for puppies, senior dogs, and dogs with compromised immune systems.
Leptospirosis
Thisbacteriais often seen in late summer, fall, and after rainfalls and can be found in standing water, dampness, and mud. It can affect your dogs liver and kidneys. Leptospirosis can cause lethargy, fever, increased thirst, vomiting, and diarrhea. It can also be transferred to humans. In severe cases, leptospirosis can be fatal.
If your dog has a healthyimmune system, they likely wont contract a serious disease from a shared water bowl. However, puppies, senior dogs, and dogs with compromised immune systems are more at risk.
Canine Papilloma Virus
This virus can be spread through direct contact withsalivafrom an infected dog. If a dog sneezes into a bowl or drools into it after drinking, its possible that they can spread canine papilloma virus through saliva left in the water. This virus often appears as warts around the mouth on the lips, tongue, or gums. Talk to your vet if you see warts appear on your dog.
Kennel Cough
Kennel cough is a common respiratory infection that makes dogs develop a honking cough, fever, and even loss of appetite. While dogs withkennel coughare typically quarantined and not allowed in public spaces, it is possible for this infection to be passed through contaminated water bowls.
Salmonella
Salmonella is a bacteria that can survive in the water (and can infect dogs as well as humans).
Contaminated water sources can easily harbor bacteria and diseases, so its important to keep your four-legged friend safe by having your own water source thats just for them.
Whats the Safest Way to Give My Dog Water?
The best way to protect your precious canine companion from any potential communal water bowl hazards (or the temptation of drinking from a dirty puddle), is to have a water bottle or collapsible water bowl with you, along with a source of fresh water. Thankfully, its easy to have one of our best dog bowls or best dog travel water bottles along on your next adventure.
If youre not carrying a water bottle or bowl on you, you can stop by a local restaurant or coffee shop and ask for a cup of water that you can give your dog.
If you do allow your dog to use a communal water bowl, always check it first for contaminants like leaves, feces, pests, or anything else floating or clouding the water. If the water doesnt look clean, dont let your dog drink it.
Its also important to practice good water bowl hygiene at home, too. Ideally, water bowls used at home or on the road need to be washed daily. If you have multiple pets sharing the same dish, its even more important to wash their bowl daily as theres a higher chance of germs entering their dishes.
Non-porous, stainless steel dog bowls can be washed in the dishwasher. You should also check any water bowls or bottles for cracks as they can harbor bacteria.
