At Dog Krazy, the health and happiness of your pets are our top priorities. We carefully select every product on our shelves, ensuring they meet our high standards for safety and quality. It's this commitment that leads us to avoid certain products, including one of the most popular dog chews on the market: rawhide. Despite its prevalence, rawhide chews pose significant risks to dogs, risks we're not willing to take. Here’s why we've made the conscious decision not to sell rawhide or any products containing rawhide at Dog Krazy.
What is Rawhide?
Rawhide chews are made from the inner layer of cow or horse hides. The hides are cleaned and processed with chemicals, then shaped into various sizes and sometimes flavored to make them more appealing to dogs. While they're often marketed as an excellent way to keep your dog entertained and promote dental health, the dangers they pose can far outweigh these benefits.
The Dangers of Rawhide
1. Choking and Blockages: One of the most immediate dangers rawhide poses is the risk of choking. Dogs can bite off large pieces of rawhide, which can then become lodged in their throat. Even more concerning is the risk of intestinal blockages. Rawhide can swell inside a dog's stomach, leading to a life-threatening blockage that may require surgical intervention.
2. Digestive Distress: Rawhide is difficult for dogs to digest. Ingesting large pieces can lead to severe stomach upset, including vomiting and diarrhea. For some dogs, especially those with sensitive stomachs, even small pieces can cause issues.
3. Contamination: The process of making rawhide involves several chemicals, including bleach and other additives, to clean and preserve the hides. These chemicals can remain on the rawhide, posing a risk of poisoning to your dog.
4. No Nutritional Value: Rawhide offers no nutritional benefit to your dog. It is essentially empty calories and can contribute to obesity if given frequently, alongside the risk of causing digestive issues.
Our Promise to You and Your Pets
Understanding the risks associated with rawhide, we have chosen not to carry these products at Dog Krazy. Our goal is to offer safe, healthy alternatives that satisfy your dog's chewing instincts without compromising their health. We stock a variety of rawhide-free chews and toys made from safe, digestible materials that are just as enjoyable for your pet.
We encourage pet parents to explore these alternatives and to always supervise their dogs with any chew or toy. Our knowledgeable staff is here to help you find the perfect fit for your dog's needs and preferences, ensuring they can enjoy a happy, healthy life.
The decision to exclude rawhide products from our inventory is a reflection of our commitment to the wellbeing of your pets. At Dog Krazy, we believe in providing only the best for your furry family members—products that we would confidently give to our pets. Thank you for trusting us with the care of your pets, and rest assured, we will always prioritize their health and happiness above all.
Always remember to supervise your pets when giving them ANY natural chews or chew toys. It’s essential, not optional, to be present while they chew to ensure their safety.