Rubber band bracelets: Trendy on you but risky for tots, pets

FAD FORWARD The latest fashion craze starts with this selection of tiny rubber bands in various colors, like those being sold in the Divisoria market district in Manila. RICHARD A. REYES

MANILA, Philippines–While those trendy loom bands may not be toxic, they can still pose a hazard to humans and their pets.

Animal welfare advocates and environmentalists on Sunday reminded weavers and wearers of Rainbow Loom bracelets to keep those colorful fashion accessories out of the hands and mouths of toddlers.

The finished do-it-yourself products can be as unique as the weaver-wearer herself.

Pet cats and dogs may also suffer from intestinal obstruction, which might require surgery, if they ingest the tiny rubber bands, according to the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) and the EcoWaste Coalition.

The two groups noted that American veterinarians had encountered cases of ingested rubber bands causing an upset stomach, diarrhea and loss of appetite among pets, and that the very manufacturer of Rainbow Loom had issued similar warnings.

“As the rubber band bracelet craze hits the country, we urge fans to remember that these loom bands could spell danger for pets and should be handled with care to prevent pet injuries,” PAWS executive director Anna Cabrera said.

EcoWaste Project Protect coordinator Thony Dizon noted that while his group did not detect any toxic  material on the bands, fakes may be out there particularly in the bargain stalls of Quiapo and Divisoria in Manila.

“There is no assurance that these products are totally safe for consumers and the environment as they have no market authorization from the Food and Drug Administration,” Dizon said.

To protect toddlers and pets, hobbyists were advised not to leave the rubber bands or finished products on the working areas, beds or floors where they can be easily reached. As a precaution, these items must be secured in lidded containers.–Jeannette I. Andrade