FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
This page contains some of the most frequently asked questions regarding our products and company. If you do not see an answer to a question you have, please feel free to contact us.
Q: What are Dirtbag Dog Toys products made out of?
A: All of our products are made from “retired” climbing ropes. A retired climbing rope is a rope that has seen good use climbing and is no longer trusted to catch a climbing fall. Because the rope could pose a threat to a climbers safety, it is discarded. We ask for donations from the local community – collect, wash, and then turn these old ropes into something new.
Sterling Ropes, a climbing rope company, has a rope recycling program in which they will accept used ropes. They pass these ropes on to a specialist who breaks down the used ropes so that they may be made into “items like carpet fiber, telephones, coat-hangers, and even children’s toys!”.
Q: Why use retired climbing ropes instead of new rope?
A: We at Dirtbag Dog Toys like the idea of “reduce, re-use, recycle”. By using retired ropes instead of new ropes, we are giving life to something that could have become waste. Turning retired climbing ropes directly into a new product (upcycling), we save energy – but wait, recycling something uses energy? Why yes it does! By re-using a retired climbing rope, we require a minimum amount of power (think: small carbon footprint) to create a useful product, a product that although made from a used material, will last a LONG time if used properly.
Q: Are Dirtbag Dog Toys products safe to leave with my pet un-supervised?
A: NO! As with ANY dog toy/product we STRONLY recommend that you supervise your pet while they use it. No pet product is indestructible and therefor it is important to supervise its use so that it is not ingested, does not choke/strangle, or otherwise injure your pet. All dogs have different chewing habits and therefor some dogs will go through more toys then others. On a positive note, our products are designed to engage your dog! By playing WITH your pet you will build a stronger bond, making sure they get lots of exercise and letting them know that you care about them!
Q: Where specifically does the money I spend on your product go?
A: Great question! Let’s say you buy a $18 leash. I immediately take 10% (in this case $1.80) from the sale and put it into a donation account. This money is set aside to be DIRECTLY DONATED to a cause that supports animal welfare. Some examples of places that we will be donating to include humane societies and special events that benefit animal welfare. After 10% has been taken out of the sale for donation, a portion of the remainder is used to buy supplies to create new products – hardware and webbing for leashes. I wish that I could make a product that was created out of 100% recycled materials: in the future if I am able, I will. The small amount of money that is left over after donations and supplies helps me continue to collect donations and run Dirtbag Dog Toys.
Q:Why do I only have 1 shipping option/price?
A: At the moment, being a new company, I am limited in terms of MY shipping options. Currently all orders are being shipped USPS Priority Mail. Shipping times average around 2-3 business days. In the future I hope to have a UPS account set up and be able to offer slower, cheaper shipping options. Alternatively, if you live in the Boulder area, I would be happy to meet you in person to complete a transaction saving you the shipping cost! Also consider buying our products from Nederland Feed & Supply – support local economy!