It may be all fun and games for Fido, but when dogs chew their toys to bits, the leftover plastic pieces pile up in landfills. In 2005 alone, Americans generated 6.5 million tons of non-durable plastic.

The environmental impact of doggie destruction got pet toy-maker Spencer Williams thinking. Williams’ Montana-based West Paw Design already used recycled materials like soda bottles and production scraps in beds and toys, and manufactured products in a green building. But to take the company’s eco practices one step further, Williams and his engineers developed a new, rubber-like material called Zogoflex.

Zogoflex differs from other plastics typically used in dog toys in that it’s engineered to be recyclable and is made from an FDA-approved material. Now if Spot gnaws

When shopping for toys for a toddler, consider stocking up on the basic staples, just as you would for your pantry. Just as it’s always good to have flour, olive oil and pasta on hand, having the following toys available to your youngsters covers the basics and makes imaginative, age-appropriate, healthful play available any day of the year.

The toys listed below provide great flexibility, in which activities are limited only by a child’s imagination (which naturally is huge!)

Basic guidelines: Purchase toys made of solid wood that are either unfinished or have a non-toxic finish; purchase toys made of organic cotton, wool or hemp. Avoid any long or loose strings, small parts and sharp edges. Remember that toddlers tend to put toys (and everything) into their mouths, so