Your pet is family. Whether it’s a Labrador, a tabby cat, or a parrot, you want to keep them safe. But online shopping makes it easy to buy products that look good but could actually harm your pet.
A 2023 report from the ASPCA found that 1 in 5 pet owners had unknowingly purchased a product online that turned out to be unsafe. That includes toys, treats, collars, beds, and grooming gear.
Not all reviews are real. Not all products are tested. And with more sellers popping up each day, it’s harder than ever to know what you’re getting.
The Risks of Unsafe Products
Bad products can cause real problems. Allergic reactions. Choking hazards. Cuts. Burns. Poisoning.
Cheap chew toys can break into sharp pieces. Imported treats might contain harmful ingredients. Knockoff flea collars often contain toxic chemicals that aren’t regulated.
One dog owner shared, “I bought a collar from a site that had good reviews. Within two days, my dog had a rash that needed vet treatment. Turns out it had fake certification.”
When you’re buying online, you don’t get to touch or smell the product before it arrives. That makes research even more important.
What to Look For Before You Buy
Check Materials and Ingredients
Look for products made with non-toxic, pet-safe materials. Avoid anything with BPA, phthalates, or artificial dyes in toys or bowls.
For treats, check the ingredients list. If the label is vague or filled with fillers and chemical names, skip it. Aim for short, readable lists. Real meat. Simple grains. No mystery powders.
Look for Testing and Certification
Safe pet products usually go through third-party testing. Look for certifications from groups like:
- ASTM (for toy safety)
- USDA Organic (for food)
- FDA (for pet meds)
- CE or ISO marks (for electronic pet gear)
If none of that is listed and the seller can’t prove safety standards, it’s a red flag.
Research the Seller
Check how long they’ve been around. Look for verified reviews. A real seller will have clear contact info, a return policy, and customer service.
If a store pops up overnight and sells only one viral product with 2,000 perfect reviews, be suspicious. Many of those reviews might be fake or bought.
How to Spot Fake Reviews
Watch for Repetition
If a product has hundreds of reviews that all sound the same, they were likely generated or paid for.
Filter by 3-Star Ratings
These reviews are usually the most honest. They mention both pros and cons. If 3-star reviews are missing or look fake too, think twice.
Use Review Check Tools
Sites like Fakespot or ReviewMeta analyse reviews and give them a trust score. Use them before making big purchases.
Check Instagram and TikTok Promotions Carefully
Many unsafe pet products are pushed by influencers. Some are paid to promote gear they’ve never used.
Just because it looks cute in a video doesn’t mean it’s safe in real life. That collapsible water bowl might be made of cheap rubber. That glowing collar might overheat.
If you see influencers promoting something sketchy, you can report the post. Brands that lie or mislead can be held accountable. Some companies are now focused on removing negative content from Instagram when people expose fake reviews or unsafe items.
It’s not just about drama. It’s about protecting other pet owners.
Avoid These Common Red Flags
“Vet Approved” With No Proof
If a product says it’s vet approved but doesn’t list the vet or show a certificate, it’s probably made up.
No Label or Expiry Date
Treats, meds, and supplements need clear packaging. No label means no rules.
Too Cheap to Be Real
If a product costs half as much as similar ones, something’s off. Materials matter. Safe manufacturing costs money.
Safer Ways to Shop Online
CEO of Hannah Pet Hospitals, Dr. Jaime Klimsey Pickett, emphasises the importance of doing your homework before buying anything for your pet. “Pet owners deserve products that are safe, transparent, and made with care,” she says. “If I wouldn’t use it on my own pets, I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone else. Safety starts with asking the right questions and holding brands accountable.”
Stick to Trusted Platforms
Buy from sites like Chewy, Pet Circle, or Amazon with verified sellers. These sites often have better return policies and stricter quality rules.
Follow Trusted Reviewers
Look for YouTubers, bloggers, or TikTok creators who test gear long-term. Real reviews show real use. They’ll post updates if something breaks or causes problems.
Ask Your Vet or Pet Group
Local pet groups or Facebook communities often share product tips. Ask what toys last, what foods are safe, and which brands are scams.
Your vet may also recommend specific products based on your pet’s breed, age, and health needs.
Make a Safety Checklist Before Buying
- Is the material safe and non-toxic?
- Are the ingredients or parts clearly listed?
- Is the brand transparent and easy to contact?
- Are reviews real and balanced?
- Has it been tested or certified?
If a product fails one or more tests, skip it. There are plenty of better options.
Final Thoughts
Your pet depends on you to make smart choices. And that includes what you buy.
Take the extra few minutes to check labels, read reviews, and avoid sketchy shops. If something looks off or sounds too good to be true, trust your gut.
Unsafe products can hurt your pet. But a little caution goes a long way. Choose wisely, and you’ll keep your furry friend healthy, happy, and safe.
