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RSPCA issues 'please avoid' toy alert due to 'deadly risk for animals'

The RSPCA has urged people to avoid buying the popular summer toy

[Black and white Collie having fun pulling on a green ring toy]

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The charity shared a plea on social media (stock photo)(Image: Getty)

Families have been warned against purchasing a common toy that could prove fatal to animals. The RSPCA emphasised the danger in an appeal posted on social media.

Writing on social media, the animal welfare organisation outlined that flying rings could kill animals if they end up in waterways. While the toys are frequently popular throughout the summer months, people have been encouraged to select safer alternatives when purchasing outdoor toys. As the charity outlined, it is the hollow centre of the ring that presents a danger.

If an animal becomes trapped with the ring around their neck, it could prove life-threatening. To illustrate the risks, the RSPCA recounted the story of a seal rescue that could have ended in tragedy.

The charity explained: "A simple outdoor activity can have devastating consequences. This seal was found with a flying ring tightly embedded around her neck, causing a serious, and deep injury. It's likely this was embedded for months before she was spotted and rescued.

"Thanks to the dedication of the team at RSPCA East Winch Wildlife Centre, she was given the care she needed to recover. Unfortunately, many animals caught up in similar situations aren't as lucky.

"Please avoid buying or using these types of flying rings, which can pose a deadly risk to wildlife. This summer, acts of kindness - whether it's picking up litter, choosing safer products, or helping protect local wildlife - can make all the difference!"

The RSPCA website says that litter presents a danger to British wildlife, with the charity receiving, on average, 10 calls a day about animals affected by litter. Common household items such as plastic bags, plastic can holders, balloons, sky lanterns, containers, elastic bands, and vapes could all put animals at risk.

For example, animals could suffocate or choke upon encountering a plastic bag. The RSPCA explained: "Even biodegradable balloons could still take weeks to degrade. Remember it only takes a second or two for an animal to swallow a balloon fragment. Always deflate balloons and cut them up before putting them safely into your bin. It's really that simple."

[The charity shared an alert over the toy (stock photo)]

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The charity shared an alert over the toy (stock photo)(Image: Getty)

The charity said: "Everyday objects that seem perfectly safe can become hazardous when animals come into close contact with them. By binning our rubbish safely instead of littering, we're making choices that could save many lives.

"Protecting animals from harmful rubbish is easy. Dispose of your rubbish responsibly by recycling, reusing or simply putting it in the bin!"

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