12/15/2024
Please think twice before buying these treats, and if your dog receives one as a gift, it’s best to throw it away. Rawhide chews may seem like a fun treat, but they can pose serious risks to your dog’s health.
Unfortunately, many of these so-called “treats” often lead to emergency vet visits, especially around the holidays. Most rawhide products are made from cattle or horse hides, and the process to make them involves harmful chemicals. First, the hides are soaked in toxic sodium sulfide to remove hair and fat. Then, they’re treated with additional chemicals to split the hides into layers, followed by hydrogen peroxide to make them look white and fresh while masking any rancid smell. After that, festive colors and glue are added to shape them into cute designs. Tests have even found traces of arsenic, mercury, chromium, and formaldehyde in these chews.
On top of the chemical concerns, rawhide is a major choking hazard and can cause serious intestinal blockages. When wet, the chews become slippery, making it difficult to grab if your dog starts choking. These risks are sadly more common than many people realize.
For your dog’s safety, it’s best to avoid rawhide entirely. Instead, try healthier, natural options like bully sticks, yak chews, or vet-approved dental treats. For dogs that love to chew, durable toys made from rubber or nylon are great alternatives. And while these options are safer, no chew is completely risk-free, so always supervise your dog while they enjoy their treats.
Keeping our pets happy and safe is what matters most. A little extra care can go a long way in protecting their health.
