Toys in all their forms — large or small, bright blue or soft pink, hardy or soft — are a staple during the Christmas season. The joy of receiving a new toy or a fuzzy stuffed companion is not limited to people. It extends to the family’s pets, too.
At RuffMutts, which has locations in Morden, Altona, and Niverville, one can find a selection of pet toys that is thoughtfully curated to ensure that the personality and preference of each furry family member is represented.
The perfect toy for your unique pet
The collection is the result of a company with pet lovers at its core.
“We're pretty picky about what we bring in, so we're not going to bring in a toy unless we're willing to use it for our dog. What we try to do is make sure we have something for all types of dogs,” says Guy Britten, the founder and owner of RuffMutts. “For big dogs that are tough chewers, we have some big toys that are very durable — some of them are even guaranteed for life.”
RuffMutts has toys for every combination of pet traits. There are durable smaller toys to match dogs smaller in stature but equally tough in chewing, small plush toys for dogs and cats that Britten labels the “cuddlers” of the bunch, and much more.
Max’s favourites
Of course, when it comes to evaluating pet toys, no one is more qualified than the pets themselves. For Max, Britten’s canine companion, some favourites include West Paw’s Toppl and his Snoop toy.
“[The Toppl is] a great toy. It’s an enrichment toy, so you can put peanut butter [inside],” says Britten, adding that, for dogs, natural peanut butter without preservatives is best. “They'll just kind of slow them down and make them work for the food, so [during the winter], if they're indoors, it gives them something [to do.]”
Britten says the Toppl toy, which is rounded with a hole inside, is a “good way” to keep pets active through the winter months — it’s also just fun.
“Then the other one is a Snoop, which is great to toy for treats or even kibble. You can kind of put it in and they have to really work at getting it out,” he says.
When it comes to selecting the best toy for pets, Britten suggests considering the animal’s size and playing habits to find a toy that is as safe as it is enjoyable. For a second opinion or advice on which toy is the best for your dog (or other pet), the staff at RuffMutts can help.
While what works best for each pet varies, the peace of mind provided by the high-quality toys at RuffMutts does not.
“[The toys are all] good quality — all safe,” says Britten.
Tasty, healthy, Canadian treats
Beyond toys, RuffMutts also stocks treats for pets. Just as with the toys, the store prioritizes quality.
“There are some great treats. We’re really [particular] about the treats we bring in. All our treats are Canadian. Some of them are even locally made in Winnipeg,” says Britten. “Smack, for example, is a great treat, and food, as well.”
RuffMutts follows certain research principles when it chooses which treats and food it offers, including uncovering information on the company's recall history and its ingredients.
“All our treats have meat-first ingredients, quality meats, and identifiable ingredients,” says Britten. “We also [think] that dogs and cats can really do well with some Omega-3 — so fish-based treats. We have all those options. We even have some treats that will address specific issues like skin and coat, gut health, immune system, . . . and hips and joints.”
Britten adds that the stores stock other wellness-promoting products as well. At any stage of a pet’s life, RuffMutts has products that can help make it as healthy as possible.
According to Britten, customers of his store respond well to its careful selection of products.
“People are just more informed, and they understand the benefits of feeding [pets] a healthy diet and being careful about what they do for treats. Exercise certainly plays a big role in longevity too,” he says. “People certainly ask questions, and we really pride ourselves on having a staff that can answer those questions.”
Britten adds that if staff do not have an answer, RuffMutts is always willing to do the research necessary to find it.
An opportunity to stock up for the holidays
RuffMutts stocks its high-quality and thoughtfully selected products all year round, but if there still isn’t something under the tree for the family pet, the holiday season is the perfect time to visit one of its stores.
There is also a Boxing Week sale that is sure to be every pet’s paradise.
“We're going to do 20% off all toys and treats, and we have a really good selection. We brought in a few Christmas-themed toys as well, so we'll have those available to everyone,” says Britten. “It's a great time of year. Even though we got a bit of snow, we're open and we're here for everyone.”
Not sure what to get your pet? Bring them along. RuffMutts warmly welcomes visits from its furry customers, too.
Supporting animals in the area
While the community is out shopping for its pets at home, Britten also encourages considering the local pet rescues. Especially during the holiday season.
“We deal with two great rescues in Altona and Morden. In Morden, we work with Pembina Valley Humane Society a lot and they're certainly looking for donations,” he says. “Furever Friends in Altona is a great organization as well, and they're always looking for donations and help [too].”
Britten adds that anyone looking for information about the rescues is welcome to call one of the RuffMutts locations. The stores also collect donations for the organizations.
Whether it’s providing access to the highest quality treats and toys for family pets or supporting local rescues through donations, RuffMutts is at the centre of wellness for the beloved animals in the region.