Rope toys warning

Please allow us to use the letters pages to warn all Shetland dog owners of a little-known danger to their pets.

Dogs, especially puppies and young animals, tend to chew and swallow all kinds of foreign bodies. Most pass through the canine digestion system without causing any harm, and only a small percentage cause intestinal blockages.

Particularly dangerous blockages are caused by linear (long, thin) foreign bodies, which can cause life-threatening damage to the small intestine. Such objects include all kinds of string, ribbon, sewing thread, knitting wool, but by far the most common cause of these fatal obstructions are caused by strands and/or fibres from seemingly safe rope toys, popular with many dog owners.

In his teaching blog “Veterinary Key Points”, aimed at small animal veterinarians, technicians and students, vet S.J. Birchard refers to these blockages as “one of the most sinister of all intestinal disorders” .

Symptoms include retching, vomiting, loss of appetite and lethargy. Unless there is a prompt diagnosis (an x-ray is usually needed) followed by appropriate surgery, the prognosis is poor and rapid death is all too common (Birchard advises: “Never let the sun set on a linear blockage.”).

According to veterinary advice, the risks are low, but we believe in the precautionary principle, and urge all dog owners not to risk their animals’ lives. Please keep your pet safe and avoid the use of rope toys.

Rosa Steppanova
James Mackenzie

Lea Gardens, Tresta