Millions of tons of plastic head for the ocean every year, threatening marine health and polluting our planet. But when we think like a dog, we see a way to make a big splash! With ocean-bound plastic recycled and reprocessed into ultra-safe, non-toxic, wag-worthy dog toys.
FAQ ZOGOFLEX & SEAFLEX
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What’s the difference between Zogoflex & Seaflex?
What's the same between Zogoflex & Seaflex?
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How can you be sure the ocean-bound plastic contained in Seaflex is safe for my dog?
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What does "Ocean-bound plastic" mean? And how is it sourced? Where does it come from?
- Ocean-bound plastic is defined as material collected from communities with no formal waste management within 50 km or 31 miles of the shoreline. This terminology is in accordance with standards and research set by renowned marine debris expert, Jenna Jambeck.
- Zogoflex is our recyclable, zero-waste virgin TPE material and is sourced in the USA. This is blended with the ocean-bound HDPE (think milk jugs and shampoo bottles) to make Seaflex!
- The ocean-bound HDPE material for the Seaflex range is sourced from coastal communities in Central America within 31 miles or 50km from the shore-line and has no formal waste management system in place.
- The ocean-bound plastic is cleaned using a patented, chemical-free cleaning process that removed contaminants and volatile substances and reprocessed into safe and non-toxic Seaflex material.
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What are the specific impacts of the Seaflex Collection?
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When it comes to enrichment for dogs, there are many unique ways that we can provide it to our dogs at home. A fun and versatile way to add enrichment at home is by using a lick mat or slow feeder!
Lick Mats vs. Slow FeedersLick mats for dogs are textured mats peppered with grooves, divots, and sections that encourage your dog to lock into their genetic foraging instincts. These mats have raised surfaces designed to encourage licking, which has many benefits for your furry companion.
You may be wondering, “Are slow feeders good for dogs?” and the answer is yes! A slow feeder is similar to a lick mat but with some subtle differences. Slow feeders help deter food gulpers by slowing down their meals in different ways. Like lick mats, slow feeders are vessels that incorporate mazes and obstacles to get your dog thinking about how to obtain their treat or meal. The intricacies of these feeders also allow your dog the chance to think about food order and give them a sense of choice.
While lick mats are provided to encourage the sole behavior of licking, a slow feeder is provided to encourage foraging and problem-solving
Lick Mats vs. Slow FeedersLick mats for dogs are textured mats peppered with grooves, divots, and sections that encourage your dog to lock into their genetic foraging instincts. These mats have raised surfaces designed to encourage licking, which has many benefits for your furry companion.
You may be wondering, “Are slow feeders good for dogs?” and the answer is yes! A slow feeder is similar to a lick mat but with some subtle differences. Slow feeders help deter food gulpers by slowing down their meals in different ways. Like lick mats, slow feeders are vessels that incorporate mazes and obstacles to get your dog thinking about how to obtain their treat or meal. The intricacies of these feeders also allow your dog the chance to think about food order and give them a sense of choice.
While lick mats are provided to encourage the sole behavior of licking, a slow feeder is provided to encourage foraging and problem-solving
Why your dog needs both
Why use a lick mat or slow feeder?
Lick mats and slow feeders provide many benefits for our canine counterparts through very subtle designs that pack a punch. These vessels create a sort of “grazing maze” that locks food into place, helping your dog slow down at mealtime. In lick mats, the act of licking releases pleasure endorphins into your dog’s brain, creating a calmer, less anxious pup. Think of serving a lick mat as giving your dog a “sigh of relief” after a long day while simultaneously adding some brainwork into the mix. This sigh of relief is often seen across beneficial decompression activities for pets.*
What is a “Decompression Activity”?
The technical definition of decompression is: “A state of relief from pressure; a return to normalcy after a stressful period or situation.” That “sigh of relief” I was talking about earlier? That’s exactly what decompression activities aim to do for our dogs! Decompression activities seek to create a calm, even playing field where our dogs can come back to a relaxed headspace free of unnecessary stressors.
Additionally, adding something novel (like a slow feeder or lick mat) into your dog’s routine can be extremely exciting and fun for them. These mats and bowls encourage a sense of choice, as your dog can choose how they go about their mats (and trust me, some dogs have a unique style!) to obtain their treats and/or food. Studies show that providing unique ways for our dogs to “work” for their meals is extremely beneficial to their health, well-being, and brain – all of which is a win-win! This phenomenon is known as contra freeloading**.
What is “Contra-freeloading”?
Contra-freeloading is an incredible behaviour seen across many animal species, including our furry canines. This concept shows that when an animal is provided a choice between free food and food that requires work, they’ll often choose the option that takes a certain amount of effort. This preference to obtain food with effort relates to deeply sewn genetic traits, which makes the act of foraging and “working” for food extremely enjoyable for a multitude of animal species. The Contrafreeloading concept helps us understand why our dogs love food puzzles and enrichment toys so much.
There’s a common misconception that the teenier the design is, the more difficult it will be for your dog, hence making it more effective. This misconception is linked to the idea that the longer an enrichment activity lasts, the more beneficial it will be for your dog. However, this couldn’t be farther from the truth! We always want enrichment games to be fun and attainable for our furry friends, and mats that have sections that are too small can lead to frustration. As a result, try not to focus on how difficult a lick mat or slow feeder may look; larger gaps are not the enemy. In fact, having better spacing in lick mats and slow feeders is vital in making sure that our dogs’ treats and meals are attainable.
What Makes Feast Mat Unique?
In my opinion, the Feast Mat is the “beast mode” of lick mats and slow feeders on the market today. With its carefully planned design and the ability to use both sides, the West Paw Feast Mat adds a ton of novelty and creativity into the mix, which may be lacking in other designs on the market.
The no-slip construction holds the mat perfectly in place for your dog, and its size is perfect for amping up meals as opposed to small treats and snacks. Especially for larger breeds, most lick mats on the market can be too small, making the mat frustrating and not a good fit for their routine. The spacing on both sides is cleverly constructed and done in a way that makes food attainable for your dog. No frustrated pups, here!
Lastly, the material of the Feast Mat makes it an absolute star in my eyes. The emphasis on sustainability is fantastic, as the West Paw Feast Mats are made with their signature Seaflex® material. West Paw Seaflex contains recycled ocean-bound plastic, but in a way that’s completely safe for your pets (no harmful toxins!). These Feast Mats are also completely recyclable through West Paw’s “Join the Loop®” initiative, making it an entirely recyclable (and sustainable) product. This differs from certain mats on the market that are made with low-grade materials that are often destined for landfills.
Why use a lick mat or slow feeder?
Lick mats and slow feeders provide many benefits for our canine counterparts through very subtle designs that pack a punch. These vessels create a sort of “grazing maze” that locks food into place, helping your dog slow down at mealtime. In lick mats, the act of licking releases pleasure endorphins into your dog’s brain, creating a calmer, less anxious pup. Think of serving a lick mat as giving your dog a “sigh of relief” after a long day while simultaneously adding some brainwork into the mix. This sigh of relief is often seen across beneficial decompression activities for pets.*
What is a “Decompression Activity”?
The technical definition of decompression is: “A state of relief from pressure; a return to normalcy after a stressful period or situation.” That “sigh of relief” I was talking about earlier? That’s exactly what decompression activities aim to do for our dogs! Decompression activities seek to create a calm, even playing field where our dogs can come back to a relaxed headspace free of unnecessary stressors.
Additionally, adding something novel (like a slow feeder or lick mat) into your dog’s routine can be extremely exciting and fun for them. These mats and bowls encourage a sense of choice, as your dog can choose how they go about their mats (and trust me, some dogs have a unique style!) to obtain their treats and/or food. Studies show that providing unique ways for our dogs to “work” for their meals is extremely beneficial to their health, well-being, and brain – all of which is a win-win! This phenomenon is known as contra freeloading**.
What is “Contra-freeloading”?
Contra-freeloading is an incredible behaviour seen across many animal species, including our furry canines. This concept shows that when an animal is provided a choice between free food and food that requires work, they’ll often choose the option that takes a certain amount of effort. This preference to obtain food with effort relates to deeply sewn genetic traits, which makes the act of foraging and “working” for food extremely enjoyable for a multitude of animal species. The Contrafreeloading concept helps us understand why our dogs love food puzzles and enrichment toys so much.
There’s a common misconception that the teenier the design is, the more difficult it will be for your dog, hence making it more effective. This misconception is linked to the idea that the longer an enrichment activity lasts, the more beneficial it will be for your dog. However, this couldn’t be farther from the truth! We always want enrichment games to be fun and attainable for our furry friends, and mats that have sections that are too small can lead to frustration. As a result, try not to focus on how difficult a lick mat or slow feeder may look; larger gaps are not the enemy. In fact, having better spacing in lick mats and slow feeders is vital in making sure that our dogs’ treats and meals are attainable.
What Makes Feast Mat Unique?
In my opinion, the Feast Mat is the “beast mode” of lick mats and slow feeders on the market today. With its carefully planned design and the ability to use both sides, the West Paw Feast Mat adds a ton of novelty and creativity into the mix, which may be lacking in other designs on the market.
The no-slip construction holds the mat perfectly in place for your dog, and its size is perfect for amping up meals as opposed to small treats and snacks. Especially for larger breeds, most lick mats on the market can be too small, making the mat frustrating and not a good fit for their routine. The spacing on both sides is cleverly constructed and done in a way that makes food attainable for your dog. No frustrated pups, here!
Lastly, the material of the Feast Mat makes it an absolute star in my eyes. The emphasis on sustainability is fantastic, as the West Paw Feast Mats are made with their signature Seaflex® material. West Paw Seaflex contains recycled ocean-bound plastic, but in a way that’s completely safe for your pets (no harmful toxins!). These Feast Mats are also completely recyclable through West Paw’s “Join the Loop®” initiative, making it an entirely recyclable (and sustainable) product. This differs from certain mats on the market that are made with low-grade materials that are often destined for landfills.
FUNNL
BUILD FOR MODERATE CHEWERS
Funnl is built for Moderate Chewers Fits small, medium and large chews. Internal fins can hold chews in place to extend chew time. Inner groove can hold yummy creamy spreads, cooked pumpkin, cream cheese, coconut yoghurt or other yummies.
West Paw’s Funnl is an enrichment toy that holds a chunky chew or bone and takes its gnawsomeness to a pawesome new level. - Together, they create dopamine-boosting stimulation that dogs crave, need, and love.
Funnl’s secret rim - For an extra pup surprise, load the secret rim with pawesome snacks and other creamy treats.
Funnl it! - From teething adolescents, to seniors with mobility issues, there are many ways to use this chew duo as a way to solve your daily dog challenges.
Too Much Energy? - More physical exercise isn’t always the right answer. Some dogs are extra excited and can exhibit neurotic behaviour. Enrichment combos like Funnl + chew treats are a perfect solution to channeling their energy and settling their minds. Try our venison trotter, a croc and foot combo, a deer antler or even a goat horn!
Teething Adolescent? - Puppies will chew on anything. But that doesn’t mean they should. Puppies chew because it makes their gums feel better. They need to chew. Try a beef tendon, some shark cartilage or a roo chew!
Senior dog with mobility issues? - Older dogs can get a lot out of a chew duo. The Funnl helps them hold their chew upright between their paws and gives them a fun challenge without having to work too hard or get their paws icky. Try a shark skin, some sweet potato or some venison skin!
Curing Boredom - Just like humans, dogs need mental stimulation–it keeps their brains sharp and their days interesting. Pair West Paw Funnl and a chunky chew for a challenge and a reward. (Best day ever.)
Funnl is built for Moderate Chewers Fits small, medium and large chews. Internal fins can hold chews in place to extend chew time. Inner groove can hold yummy creamy spreads, cooked pumpkin, cream cheese, coconut yoghurt or other yummies.
West Paw’s Funnl is an enrichment toy that holds a chunky chew or bone and takes its gnawsomeness to a pawesome new level. - Together, they create dopamine-boosting stimulation that dogs crave, need, and love.
Funnl’s secret rim - For an extra pup surprise, load the secret rim with pawesome snacks and other creamy treats.
Funnl it! - From teething adolescents, to seniors with mobility issues, there are many ways to use this chew duo as a way to solve your daily dog challenges.
Too Much Energy? - More physical exercise isn’t always the right answer. Some dogs are extra excited and can exhibit neurotic behaviour. Enrichment combos like Funnl + chew treats are a perfect solution to channeling their energy and settling their minds. Try our venison trotter, a croc and foot combo, a deer antler or even a goat horn!
Teething Adolescent? - Puppies will chew on anything. But that doesn’t mean they should. Puppies chew because it makes their gums feel better. They need to chew. Try a beef tendon, some shark cartilage or a roo chew!
Senior dog with mobility issues? - Older dogs can get a lot out of a chew duo. The Funnl helps them hold their chew upright between their paws and gives them a fun challenge without having to work too hard or get their paws icky. Try a shark skin, some sweet potato or some venison skin!
Curing Boredom - Just like humans, dogs need mental stimulation–it keeps their brains sharp and their days interesting. Pair West Paw Funnl and a chunky chew for a challenge and a reward. (Best day ever.)
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SNORKL
BUILD FOR MODERATE CHEWERS
Snorkl is designed for dogs who love bones, boomerangs, and tug. Snorkl's fun tug shape makes it perfect for high energy dogs and great for human and dog play or dog and dog play.
Snorkl is designed for dogs who love bones, boomerangs, and tug. Snorkl's fun tug shape makes it perfect for high energy dogs and great for human and dog play or dog and dog play.
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DRIFTY
BUILD FOR MODERATE CHEWERS
Dogs love traditional bones, but as pet parents? We wanted more - like recyclable material, easy cleaning, and a safety guarantee. So, WESTPAW made Drifty: the dishwasher-friendly bone upgrade that’s responsibly made from non-toxic Seaflex™.
Dogs love traditional bones, but as pet parents? We wanted more - like recyclable material, easy cleaning, and a safety guarantee. So, WESTPAW made Drifty: the dishwasher-friendly bone upgrade that’s responsibly made from non-toxic Seaflex™.
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SAILZ
BUILD FOR MODERATE CHEWERS
The Sailz is our newest take on your dog's favorite frisbee. Made responsibly with Seaflex™ this disc was inspired by disc golf shapes in order to fly far and true! Durable and lightweight with a center hole to make it easier for dogs to pick it up and bring back for another toss.
The Sailz is our newest take on your dog's favorite frisbee. Made responsibly with Seaflex™ this disc was inspired by disc golf shapes in order to fly far and true! Durable and lightweight with a center hole to make it easier for dogs to pick it up and bring back for another toss.
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