Warning to all dog owners over hidden chemical in common Christmas dog treat which can be deadly
Share:
WITH Santa Paws coming in less than a week, dog owners have been warned against a popular Christmas treat that can be deadly. It's the time of year than millions of people across the country like to spoil their pooch more than usual with festive treats and toys.
![[Dog owners have been warned against rawhide treats]](https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/12/Facebook-bargain-lovers-group-rawhide.png?strip=all&w=960)
But pet food supplier Richard Green at Kennedy Wild Bird Food & Pet Supplies has warned owners against "dangerous" rawhide that can be deadly for dogs. Shop shelves are filled with Christmas-themed rawhide treats like knot bones at this time of year. Richard says: "Rawhide treats are often marketed as a natural chew, but the production process involves harsh chemicals that can be harmful to a dog’s health.
![[Eight-year-old crossbreed, Shylah, was taken for treatment after eating tinsel]](https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/12/2024-dog-owner-told-beloved-958117529.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
"The risk of choking is another major concern, as rawhide can splinter, causing injury to the dog’s mouth or digestive system.". He adds: “Since rawhide isn’t regulated as food in the UK, there’s no guarantee that they are free from harmful substances.
![[Shylah needed emergency life-saving surgery after eating a 3ft length of tinsel]](https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/12/2024-dog-owner-told-beloved-958117522.jpg?strip=all&w=720)
"These treats are often made from animal hides that are preserved with chemicals, including toxic preservatives and bleach, which can potentially cause digestive issues and allergic reactions. “When swallowed, they can swell up to four times their size, leading to potential choking hazards or serious intestinal blockages. These blockages can be life-threatening if not addressed quickly.”.
![[The tinsel removed from Shylah the dog]](https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/12/2024-dog-owner-told-beloved-958117616_0dc7ae.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
As well as being a choking hazard, the treats can lead to tooth damage for dogs. “While rawhide chews are often seen as good for dental health, the hard nature of rawhide can lead to fractures in your dog's teeth, which can be painful and expensive to treat" Richard reveals.
