Experts have now warned that the popular pastime, loved by our furry friends, could cause an array of potentially dangerous side effects
Pet owners know how vital exercise is for keeping their dogs healthy, and what better way to let off some steam than a good run around in the park or back garden?
Fetch is a go-to game that gets tails wagging, even if some furry pals aren’t quite pros at returning the toys. With the sun making a welcome appearance, more of us will be heading outdoors to run around with our four-legged friends.
However, there’s a dark side to this classic game: playing fetch can actually be deadly, experts have warned, advising extra caution during playtime.
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Dog probiotic expert Beth Nash from Vitasure has flagged up some serious health hazards related to fetching games, saying: “Most dogs love chasing a stick or two, and on the face of it, there is nothing wrong with it. However, if your dog loves to chow down on them, that’s when serious issues can arise.”
Chewing on splintered sticks can lead to internal injuries which, aside from being painful, could also be fatal.
Not to mention, tough sticks might break teeth, injure gums, or introduce infections, resulting in expensive dental treatments.
There’s also the risk of wood pieces getting stuck in a dog’s throat, blocking breathing and triggering problems, reports the Express.
It’s not just the act of swallowing these parts that can be harmful – certain types of tree bark, like black walnut and cherry, contain toxins that can harm dogs if ingested. Serious issues are relatively rare, but every dog owner should discourage their dogs from eating sticks.
Experts suggest taking balls or a Frisbee on your walk instead, as nothing quite beats the thrill of chasing a ball for our furry friends. Training your dog to respond to “leave it” can also help them resist the temptation to pick up sticks – and other dangerous objects.
Sometimes, dogs eat non-food items due to nutritional deficiencies, so ensuring they have the correct diet for their breed is crucial.
A good indication of their health is their poo. If it’s regular, solid and a good colour, their digestion is probably working as it should.
“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,” said Beth.
“And with the average vet bill costing dog owners almost £350, it might not only be your dog who suffers.”
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