The FDA has issued a warning to pet parents about treating their pups to certain types of bones.
Most dog owners know that cooked meat and poultry bones should never be given to our furry friends they can splinter and pose a serious choking hazard or cause internal injuries with their sharp ends. But the warning explains that store-bought versions – even those made just for dogs – can pose the same threat. In fact, about 15 canines have perished due to complications after eating bones like these.
An article on the FDA website explains:
FDA has received about 68 reports of pet illnesses related to ‘bone treats,’ which differ from uncooked butcher-type bones because they are processed and packaged for sale as dog treats.
While no specific products or brands are mentioned or have been recalled, the type of products are described as:
A variety of commercially-available bone treats for dogs—including treats described as ‘Ham Bones,’ ‘Pork Femur Bones,’ ‘Rib Bones,’ and ‘Smokey Knuckle Bones’—were listed in the reports. The products may be dried through a smoking process or by baking, and may contain other ingredients such as preservatives, seasonings, and smoke flavorings.
The story continues to warn pet parents to think twice before giving their canines these types of chews.
Reported illnesses include:
- Gastrointestinal obstruction (blockage in the digestive tract)
- Choking
- Cuts and wounds in the mouth or on the tonsils
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Bleeding from the rectum, and/or
- Death. Approximately fifteen dogs reportedly died after eating a bone treat.
Click here to read the entire report.
This is a good reminder that just because treats are packaged and marketed for dogs, it doesn’t mean that they’re all safe. This includes rawhide bones, which many dog lovers avoid, since they’re chemically treated and can also cause dogs to choke if they swallow large pieces.
If you’re looking for a healthier way to spoil your chew-happy dog this season, check out all-natural, digestible Bully Sticks, Krill Sticks, and Dental Sticks, available at the iHeartDogs store. Bonus: each purchase provides meals to hungry shelter dogs. (Note: dogs should always be supervised when enjoying any type of treat, toy, or chew.)
