Your pooch could become unwell if they’re a fan of playing this game (Image: Getty)
If you have a pet , you’ll know that they need lots of exercise in order to stay healthy – so a good run-around in the park or garden is a great way to spend an afternoon.
And to make things a bit more exciting, one game that pets love to play outdoors is fetch, even if they aren’t great at actually bringing the item back.
Dogs really love a good chew, and with the finally seeming to get a little better, many owners will be spending more and more time outdoors playing with our furry friends as the weeks go on.
But experts have now warned that the popular game of fetch could end up proving fatal to our pets, urging people to take extra care when playing it.
Beth Nash, an expert from dog probiotic company Vitasure, has warned of the significant health risks that can arise from a simple game of fetch.
Chewing on sticks can be a real problem for dogs (Image: Getty)
She said: “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 and swallowing splintered wood can lead to punctures or tears in a dog’s oesophagus, stomach, or intestines, resulting in painful and potentially life-threatening injuries.
Hard sticks can also fracture teeth, cause gum injuries, or lead to infections that might require costly dental procedures.
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Small pieces of wood can also become lodged in a dog’s throat, obstructing their airway and creating serious issues.
And it’s not just the action of swallowing these parts – certain types of tree bark, like black walnut and cherry, contain toxins that can harm dogs if ingested.
While serious issues are relatively rare, every dog owner should take steps to discourage their dogs from eating sticks. The experts recommend taking balls or a Frisbee on your walk instead, because while sticks can be enticing, nothing quite beats the thrill of chasing a ball for our pooches.
Teaching your dog to respond to “leave it” can also help them resist the temptation to pick up sticks – and other dangerous objects.
Dogs sometimes eat non-food items due to nutritional deficiencies, so it’s a good idea to make sure you are feeding them the correct diet for their breed.
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.”