We are looking for a few crafty adults who know how to wield a glue gun and have a love of animals. We are Glad Dogs Nation, a pet store and non-profit that turns adorable kid stuffed animals into safe pet toys.
The process involves cutting out plastic eyes and gluing appliques over the eye holes. If the toy has a plastic nose, that is removed and a pompom is glued in its place. Here is a quick video of the process to glue eyes.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-x6qfXokTWU
Then we cut open the toy -- usually on the belly -- and remove any beads that may be inside. Sometimes they are in the belly, sometimes in the legs, sometimes both. Full disclosure -- this part of the process can get a little messy because beads can escape! We will provide you with a "bucket" that you can use to catch the beads.
We give you all the training and practice you need. We supply the glue gun, glue sticks, scissors, and appliques -- anything/everything you need. This can all be performed in your own home. You would need to visit our workshop in Trevose for initial training and to pick up the supplies. As you finish each batch, you bring them back to us and we supply more.
Everything can be done at your own pace. It's fun and rewarding!
What happens to the toys when you're done? Other volunteers will put squeakers inside and stitch the toy closed. Some toys are sold and 100% of the profits are donated to animal causes. Other toys are given away free to shelters and rescues across the country.
Feel free to email with questions.