AS Christmas approaches and treats begin filling shopping baskets, pet owners are being urged to choose gifts carefully, with several popular products posing serious health risks to dogs.
Local veterinarians and pet advocates remind the community that pet-safe treats should only be purchased from reputable pet stores or veterinary clinics, as many items sold in department stores, particularly coloured bones and rawhide products, can be dangerous.
One dog owner recently shared a frightening experience after their two-year-old dog, Charlie, developed a severe stomach blockage caused by rawhide. Rawhide is not digestible, meaning it can accumulate inside the stomach or intestines. Charlie required emergency surgery to remove the blockage, with vets warning the outcome could easily have been fatal.
“The vet bill came to $1,600, which we were lucky enough to cover and claim back on insurance,” the owner said. “But not everyone is in that position, and the only option for some would be to put their pet to sleep. All sale of rawhide should be banned.”
Rawhide is not the only danger during the festive season. As tempting as it is to share leftovers from Christmas lunch, cooked chicken, turkey or other bones should never be given to dogs. Cooked bones splinter easily, much like timber, and can cause life-threatening internal injuries or become lodged in a dog’s gums or throat.
“The rubbish bin is the only safe place for cooked bones,” pet safety advocates say. “Keep them well out of reach of curious noses.”
Chocolate is another holiday hazard. Even small amounts of chocolate can be highly toxic to dogs and must be stored safely.
For those wanting to spoil their pets this Christmas, experts recommend selecting vet-approved treats, natural chews, enrichment toys or pet-safe festive snacks designed specifically for animals.
By choosing safe gifts and keeping harmful foods out of reach, families can help ensure their furry friends enjoy a happy, healthy and stress-free Christmas.
