Many dogs spend lots of time chewing rawhide treats. These treats are made from the hide of cattle or horse. Unfortunately, giving rawhide treats for pets is not without its risks. Some common problems associated with rawhides include contamination, digestive problems, choking hazards, and gastrointestinal tract obstruction. Knowing the pros and cons of rawhide chews can help you make the right decision and exercise caution when giving these treats to your pet. Here are some precautions that you should observe when giving rawhide treats:
- When giving rawhide chews always remember “the smaller the dog, the fewer the chews”. If your dog is new to these treats, offer one chew treat at a time and keep a close eye for any sings of adverse reaction such as digestive upsets.
- If there are several dogs in the household, let them stay in different rooms while chewing rawhide treats to avoid the possibility of dogs gulping large parts of their treats because they are afraid that the other dogs are out to grab their treats. Some dogs can really be extra possessive with their food.
- Once the rawhide that your dog is chewing has become soft and/or small enough to be swallowed, remove it immediately. Just be careful when removing it for there is a possibility that your dog may react aggressively.
Call your animal hospital San Antonio, TX if you notice any adverse reaction exhibited by your dog after chewing rawhide treats. Read more here.
