Rawhide - Friend or Foe?

What is it?

Rawhide is a by-product of the leather industry. It usually made from cow or horse hides (their skin). Artificial colours and flavours may be added to make them look and smell more appealing

False Beliefs

• Rawhide is sold in pet shops so it must be safe!

• It's good for my dogs teeth!

• It's a safe thing for my dog to chew!

Risks of Rawhide

• Choking

• Intestinal Obstruction - rawhide is meant for chewing NOT swallowing

• May Break Teeth

• Risk of Contamination - risk of contracting salmonella or e.coli

Signs of a blockage

• Gagging

• Regurgitation

• Repeated Swallowing

• Vomiting

• Diarrhoea

• Fever

• Lack of Energy

• Signs of Pain

• Refusal to eat

• Unable to pass faeces

• Weight Loss

Safer Alternatives

• Bully Sticks

• Antlers

• Pigs/ Rabbit/ Lamb/ Cow Ears

• Duck/ Chicken/ Turkey Feet

• Sweet Potato Chews

• Carrots

• Himalayan Chew

• Filled Kongs

• Chew Roots