A lot cyclists have furry friends, they also have a lot of flat inner tubes. For years now, Portland based Cycle Dog has been taking those old inner tubes and turning them into awesome dog collars and leashes that are non-stink, quick drying, no fray, and maybe most importantly are equipped with bottle openers. “Here, boy! crack. Good dog.” Built with all metal hardware including their latch lock seatbelt buckle collar, the leashes and collars have proven to be better than most others I’ve tried, and not just because of the cycling connection.
Cycle Dog’s latest recycling endeavor involves something very close to my dog’s heart – toys. Looking to continue to use recycled materials and create a better mouse trap dog toy in the process, the new Retreads are definitely worth checking out if you have a dog at home.
Retreads start with old inner tubes that are collected from bike shops around Cycle Dog’s head quarters and are then ground up to put into the toys. The inner tube rubber is then mixed with natural rubber – otherwise the toy wouldn’t float, an important feature for many dog owners. The result is a blend they call Ecolast, an extremely durable post-consumer recycled material that’s pet safe.
Retreads are offered in the squeaker High Roller ball in various sizes for $9-12 and in the 3-play toys like the hippo above. 3-play toys offer a durable squeaker, a treat hiding slot, and Superfloat in the water and retail for $15.
Most importantly (to me), Retreads are Joey Dog approved.
