Toy makers?

[JDykstra]

I am not sure where to put this type of question but I wil put it here because I am trying to make toys for my CAG. When you use chain what mm do you use and where can you buy chain and other metal items that are safe> Any suggestions are appreciated because I am running into dead ends.

Thanks,
Jennifer

[The Outlaw]

Jennifer:

I know some folks like to use chain, but please think this through. I had a BG that hung himself with a chain toy. Luckily my husband saw him in time for us to save him. He had managed to chew through the wood blocks and had one left on the bottom. The chain then became a bolla and he managed to wrap it around his neck. Unlike rope, leather or Paulie rope, they cannot chew through is and you cannot cut it in an emergency. No scissors or knife will be able to cut it in time. I was lucky. I held my struggling baby up and Will untangled him. I'll NEVER use any chain again. I make and sell a lot of toys and its very easy to create a dangerous toy no matter how hard we try to avoid it. Please, use another medium.

[JDykstra]

Thanks for hte information. I have seen so many toys that are made with chain I thought it seemed like a good indestructable option. How about plastic chain. Would that pose a risk like metal? I have been using thick jute, sisal and 100 percent cotton rope to make the things I have made so far.

[The Outlaw]

Stick with what you are using. Actually, for a grey, I'd recommend Paulie rope. There are lots of vendors on Ebay that sell it. Just type in Parrots and then select toys.

[cfulhage]

The only chain I use is plastic chain that can be chewed through. I buy it from www.windycityparrot.com. It comes in many colors, and my CAG loves to destroy it.

Paulie rope is also great to use when making toys!

I also shop regularly at www.greyfeathertoys.com (great place, run by FANTASTIC people), and www.avianmechanics.com.

When buying any kind of metal hardware for your parrot, make sure it is stainless steel. great feather toys sells exclusively stainless steel.

[Swampbear]

I try to avoid things like chains or anything with small holes in it with my CAG because I learned when my Yellow Napped Amazon got a wood ball that was part of a toy stuck on his maxilla, and I like to have never got it off, I know it was uncomfortable for him. Also chains I would think are a hazzard for them to get their little feet caught in and could easity panic and break their little leg. now I only use Parrot rope to make toys with, no wiffle balls, chains, or anything with a hole large enough to get the maxilla in.

[mamalovesrico]

I use a lot of plastic chain, but I use the length accordingly to the type of bird in which I'm making the toy. You will see metal chain everywhere and you will think it's ok to use because the stores are. Be very very careful. Please. I have been considering buying metal chain anyhow because it would make toy making a lot easier. I have proof that has forever changed my mind. Murray's toe practically got mangled a couple of weeks ago in a chain. That's it done, forget about it, I'll find something else to use. People will change their mind once they see it happen to their bird.
I use the plastic chain on all my birds. I keep it short and they all love chewing through it. I also use it sparingly and I don't use it if I can use a safe alternative instead.