While we all may love giving our dogs lots of treats, there can be a number of red flags in many common and popular treats that line pet store shelves. That’s why we’re here to provide a thorough exploration of the multifaceted world of pet treats, shedding light on potential risks associated with their consumption. Acknowledging the widespread use of treats for training and enjoyment, this blog emphasizes the need for pet owners to balance the benefits and risks effectively.
Exploring Risks Associated with Pet Treats: A Holistic View
1. Pathogens
Pet treats, particularly those derived from animal parts like pig ears, have been linked to outbreaks of Salmonella in humans. The risk arises when treats are not adequately processed to eliminate pathogens through methods like cooking, pasteurization, or irradiation. A variety of dehydrated animal parts, such as lungs, tracheas, livers, and ears, may pose a similar risk if not properly processed.
2. Toxins
Specific treats, notably chicken, duck, and sweet potato jerky treats from China, have been associated with numerous pet illnesses and deaths. A Fanconi-like syndrome has been identified, but the cause remains unknown, making it challenging to prevent future occurrences.
3. Injuries
Hard treats, especially those with sharp edges like bone fragments, can lead to tooth damage or fractures in pets, resulting in pain and potential financial burden for owners.
4. Obstructions
Poorly digestible treats, when swallowed in large pieces, can cause intestinal blockages in pets. While most edible treats pose a limited risk, concerns are more significant with non-food items like toys and rawhides.
5. Obesity
Weight gain and obesity can result from high-calorie treats. Despite being a less commonly considered issue, moderation is crucial, considering that treats contribute to overall caloric intake. A recent study highlights the caloric content of bully sticks, emphasizing the importance of portion control.
Considerations Before Treating Your Pet: A Thoughtful Approach
We recommend a thoughtful approach before offering treats to pets:
1. Assess the treat
Consider the nature of the treat, its potential to fragment, and its hardness. Treats that are not prone to fragmenting and are not excessively hard are generally safe in moderation.
2. Address concerns about pig hair
While some may find pig hair on dog treats off-putting, the realistic concerns about obstruction or bacterial contamination are minimal. The key lies in ensuring the treat is adequately processed to eliminate pathogens, and moderation is exercised in feeding.
3. Moderation is key
Like human snacking, moderation is crucial in preventing issues related to weight gain and obesity.
Informed Treat Choices for Happy Pets
Pet owners should carefully evaluate the treats they offer, considering the potential risks and benefits. By choosing treats that are processed to eliminate pathogens, not prone to causing injuries, and offered in moderation, owners can enhance their pets' well-being and enjoyment without compromising their health.
Don't have a vet in your area yet? We can help you find a local veterinarian.
If you have more questions, the GeniusVets Telehealth platform will give you unlimited access to text and/or video calls with board-certified veterinarians! To learn more click here.