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"It might be your pup’s favourite treat, but vets are warning that bones can be dangerous for dogs. Yep, while they may enjoy chewing and playing with them, the fun treat can cause splinters and internal damage. Additionally, pieces of bone can damage dogs’ digestive systems. Veterinary charity the PDSA has seen numerous dogs undergo surgery due to injuries from chewing on bones. PDSA vet Rebecca Ashman, said, ‘We don’t recommend bones as treats because unfortunately our vets and nurses regularly see dogs with digestive tract damage and blockages caused by splinters or larger pieces of bone being swallowed and becoming stuck. ‘Surgery is usually needed to remove any blockage and in some cases, the damage is so serious that it can be fatal. Similarly, if they swallow a large piece of rawhide chew, this can become stuck and cause serious problems.’ MORE: SCIENTISTS PROVE DOGS CAN SENSE HUMAN EMOTIONS Instead, Rebecca recommends reviewing the toys your pups play with. She added, ‘We would advise sticking to dog-friendly chew toys (suitable for their size) that help keep your dog’s teeth clean and don’t present the same choking or blockage risks. ‘Non-rawhide chews are also safe, but be sure to count the calories from these as part of your dog’s daily allowance, as eating too many of these treats can cause weight gain.’ MORE: 16 SIGNS YOU’RE OBSESSED WITH DOGS ( All images: Getty ) Like this? Subscribe to the Good Housekeeping newsletter."
<https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/uk/health/a563770/why-you-shouldnt-give-dog-a-bone-fatal/>