WASHINGTON — There’s real paws for concern when it comes to canine “bone treats” found in stores, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
While most dog owners know to avoid giving their pooches brittle turkey or chicken bones, the new threat to canine health comes from these bones treats — which differ from uncooked butcher-type bones because they are processed and packaged for sale as dog treats.
The FDA says it has received 68 reports of pet illness related to the problematic snacks.
Among the varieties to be wary of are items described as “Ham Bones,” “Pork Femur Bones,” “Rib Bones” and “Smokey Knuckle Bones.”
“Giving your dog a bone treat might lead to an unexpected trip to your veterinarian, a possible emergency surgery, or even death for your pet,” Carmela Stamper, a veterinarian in the Center for Veterinary Medicine at the FDA, said in a news release.
Illnesses reported to the FDA by dog owners include the following:
- Gastrointestinal obstruction (blockage in the digestive tract);
- Choking;
- Cuts and wounds in the mouth or on the tonsils;
- Vomiting;
- Diarrhea;
- Bleeding from the rectum;
- Death. Approximately 15 dogs reportedly died after eating a bone treat.
The FDA also has a list of tips to keep Fido safe:
- Chicken bones and other bones from the kitchen table can cause injury when chewed by pets, too. So be careful to keep platters out of reach when you’re cooking or the family is eating.
- Be careful what you put in the trash can. Dogs are notorious for helping themselves to the turkey carcass or steak bones disposed of there.
- Talk with your veterinarian about other toys or treats that are most appropriate for your dog. There are many available products made with different materials for dogs to chew on.
To report a problem with a pet food or treat, visit the FDA’s website: “How to Report a Pet Food Complaint.”
