We see rawhide dog treats everywhere and our dogs usually love them. They offer the dog something other than your slippers to chew on. However, what most people don’t know is that rawhide dog treats can be very dangerous to your dog.  Here are some facts you probably didn’t know about rawhide treats.

• Salmonella bacteria is often present especially if the rawhide comes from outside the US.  Another problem is that Arsenic is sometimes used as a preservative. Yes I did said ARSENIC! Other additives that are very dangerous include antibiotics which can kill the good bacteria in your dogs intestines.  Small traces of lead can also be found in rawhide.

Health problems from rawhide include a sore throat, acute Pancreatitis, choking and even a blockage in the intestines.

You know your dog better than anyone. If you’ve been giving him rawhide and he gets sick with symptoms like, fever, vomiting, not eating, painful abdomen (he will be hunched over) diarrhea and dehydration, get him to the vet right away. It could be due to the rawhide treats.

There are alternatives to rawhide.  Like dog cookies and treats. Ask your vet for the best advice.