Alert for shoppers: This popular treat could make your pet sick—is it in your home?
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We all know that our furry companions are more than just pets; they're part of the family. That's why it is crucial to stay informed about potential dangers that could affect their health and well-being.
A recent incident involving a popular treat has raised serious concerns about pet product safety, which all pet owners should know.
This story serves as a reminder to be vigilant about the products we give to our furry companions and to stay updated on any safety recalls or warnings.
The treat in question, the Bow Wow Prosciutto Bone, has been linked to a severe illness in a dog named Tucker, a four-year-old Labrador from the Perth suburb of Kallaroo.
Tucker's story is a cautionary tale for all who spoil our pets with treats.
After trying the treat for the first time on 4 January, Tucker became alarmingly ill.
His usual energetic and friendly demeanour changed drastically; he became lethargic and unresponsive.
Sasha Wadham shared Tucker's story and described the distressing situation.
When her husband visited her sister's house to help move furniture, he noticed Tucker's unusual behaviour.
The family quickly realised something was wrong and rushed Tucker to the hospital.
'It was 100 per cent confirmed on Monday when they did a scan and they could see the splintered bone all inside,' Wadham said.
The situation escalated when Tucker was transferred to the ICU at Murdoch Veterinary Animal Hospital, where he stayed for five days.
'Vets have said this is one of the worst cases they have ever seen,' she added.
The financial burden on the family was immense, with veterinary bills accumulating to at least $13,900.
Despite setting up a GoFundMe page that raised over $6,000, the family had to rely on four credit cards to manage the expenses.
This incident is not isolated. Other dog owners have come forward with similar experiences related to the Bow Wow Prosciutto Bone.
One such owner, Graham, revealed that his 12-year-old dog endured a comparable ordeal, with survival costs reaching $12,000.
Despite complaints to Woolworths and Bow Wow, the response was lacklustre, with no immediate action to address the issue.
The outcry from pet owners and the public has prompted action.
Bow Wow has confirmed that the Prosciutto Bone will be removed from shelves following reviews and consultations with industry experts.
'Following recent reviews and consultations with industry experts in 2024, we have decided that the Prosciutto Bone will be phased out of the market by the end of March 2025 as we explore alternative offerings,' the company announced.
'We are aware of an incident involving a dog, Tucker, and are currently conducting a thorough investigation and review of this case.'
'With that said, we have always been committed to regularly reviewing and improving our product range.'
While Bow Wow states that its products adhere to industry guidelines and that packaging includes necessary disclosures, they also recognise that not all treats suit every dog.
'We understand how distressing this owner’s experience has been,' a Woolworths spokesperson said.
'We take the safety of our customers and their pets seriously.'
Coles and IGA, which also carry Bow Wow products, do not have this specific product listed on their websites.
As responsible pet owners, we must be vigilant about the treats and toys we provide.
Constantly monitor your pets when they're enjoying a treat, and be aware of any changes in their behaviour or health.
If you suspect a product is unsafe, don't hesitate to contact the retailer or the manufacturer and seek veterinary care.
Have you or someone you know had similar issues with pet treats? How do you ensure the safety of the pet products you buy? Let us know in the comments below.
A recent incident involving a popular treat has raised serious concerns about pet product safety, which all pet owners should know.
This story serves as a reminder to be vigilant about the products we give to our furry companions and to stay updated on any safety recalls or warnings.
The treat in question, the Bow Wow Prosciutto Bone, has been linked to a severe illness in a dog named Tucker, a four-year-old Labrador from the Perth suburb of Kallaroo.
Tucker's story is a cautionary tale for all who spoil our pets with treats.
After trying the treat for the first time on 4 January, Tucker became alarmingly ill.
The Bow Wow Prosciutto Bone has been pulled from shelves after a dog named Tucker fell severely ill from consuming it. Credit: GoFundMe
His usual energetic and friendly demeanour changed drastically; he became lethargic and unresponsive.
Sasha Wadham shared Tucker's story and described the distressing situation.
When her husband visited her sister's house to help move furniture, he noticed Tucker's unusual behaviour.
The family quickly realised something was wrong and rushed Tucker to the hospital.
'It was 100 per cent confirmed on Monday when they did a scan and they could see the splintered bone all inside,' Wadham said.
The situation escalated when Tucker was transferred to the ICU at Murdoch Veterinary Animal Hospital, where he stayed for five days.
'Vets have said this is one of the worst cases they have ever seen,' she added.
The financial burden on the family was immense, with veterinary bills accumulating to at least $13,900.
Despite setting up a GoFundMe page that raised over $6,000, the family had to rely on four credit cards to manage the expenses.
This incident is not isolated. Other dog owners have come forward with similar experiences related to the Bow Wow Prosciutto Bone.
One such owner, Graham, revealed that his 12-year-old dog endured a comparable ordeal, with survival costs reaching $12,000.
Despite complaints to Woolworths and Bow Wow, the response was lacklustre, with no immediate action to address the issue.
The outcry from pet owners and the public has prompted action.
Bow Wow has confirmed that the Prosciutto Bone will be removed from shelves following reviews and consultations with industry experts.
'Following recent reviews and consultations with industry experts in 2024, we have decided that the Prosciutto Bone will be phased out of the market by the end of March 2025 as we explore alternative offerings,' the company announced.
'We are aware of an incident involving a dog, Tucker, and are currently conducting a thorough investigation and review of this case.'
'With that said, we have always been committed to regularly reviewing and improving our product range.'
While Bow Wow states that its products adhere to industry guidelines and that packaging includes necessary disclosures, they also recognise that not all treats suit every dog.
Woolworths, one of the retailers selling Bow Wow products, has forwarded the report to the brand for investigation and expressed their understanding on the matter.'We understand how distressing this owner’s experience has been,' a Woolworths spokesperson said.
'We take the safety of our customers and their pets seriously.'
Coles and IGA, which also carry Bow Wow products, do not have this specific product listed on their websites.
As responsible pet owners, we must be vigilant about the treats and toys we provide.
Constantly monitor your pets when they're enjoying a treat, and be aware of any changes in their behaviour or health.
If you suspect a product is unsafe, don't hesitate to contact the retailer or the manufacturer and seek veterinary care.
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