Playing this popular game with your dogs can be fatal for them, warns pet expert
Dog owners know how important exercise is for keeping their furry companions fit and happy. And what better way to burn off some energy than a lively run in the park or a playful dash around the back garden?
Fetch has long been a favourite game, guaranteed to get tails wagging, even if some pups haven’t quite mastered the art of bringing the toy back. With the sun making a welcome return, many of us will be heading outdoors for more playtime with our four-legged friends.
But experts have issued a stark warning about the hidden dangers of this classic game, cautioning that a simple game of fetch could turn deadly if owners aren’t careful.
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Dog probiotic expert Beth Nash from Vitasure has raised serious concerns about the risks of playing fetch, warning that it could pose hidden dangers to canine health, reports the Express .
"Most dogs love chasing a stick or two, and on the face of it, there is nothing wrong with it," she explained. "However, if your dog loves to chow down on them, that's when serious issues can arise."
Chewing on splintered sticks can cause internal injuries that are not only painful but potentially fatal. Sharp splinters may damage a dog's mouth, break teeth, or lead to infections, resulting in costly dental treatments.
There's also the frightening possibility of wood getting lodged in a dog's throat, blocking airflow and creating life-threatening breathing difficulties.
It's not just the risk of choking or splinters, some tree bark, such as black walnut and cherry, contains toxins that can be harmful to dogs if ingested.
While serious cases are rare, experts advise dog owners to take precautions and discourage their pets from chewing on sticks. Instead, bringing along a ball or Frisbee can provide a safer and equally exciting alternative for playtime. After all, few things match the joy of a dog chasing after a ball.
In some cases, dogs may chew on non-food items due to nutritional deficiencies, so ensuring they have a well-balanced diet suited to their breed is crucial. Training them to respond to the command "leave it" can also prevent them from picking up sticks, or other potentially dangerous objects, while out on walks.
A dog's poo can be a good indicator of their overall health, if it's regular, solid, and the right colour, their digestion is likely functioning well.
Beth Nash highlighted that while chewing sticks can be dangerous for all dogs, some breeds may be at greater risk. "While it can be dangerous for dogs of all sizes, smaller breeds can be more prone to things such as choking due to their size, while larger dogs can often carry larger sticks, which can cause more damage if chewed on," she explained.
She also pointed out that the consequences aren’t just physical. "And with the average vet bill costing dog owners almost £350, it might not only be your dog who suffers."
