For many pet owners, dogs and cats are considered family members, loyal companions, and constant sources of joy.

Keeping a furry friend also comes with the responsibility of keeping them safe.

However, an item found in countless Aussie homes and backyards could give dog owners a massive headache.


Recently, a travelling family experienced every pet owner's nightmare.

'We've arrived in Carnarvon, WA, and our dog wasn't herself for the last 24 hours—off to the vet to find a bowel obstruction requiring surgery,' a woman posted on social media.

'So, within two hours of the visit, she was X-rayed and operated on.'


'Motto of the story—don't let your dogs near fake grass mats,' the woman warned.

Their dog, a Border Collie, had a metre of grass mat in her belly.

'Why she decided to eat this is beyond comprehension, but she did.'

'We're just putting it out there in case any others use these—keep them away from your dogs,' the woman concluded.

The woman's post quickly attracted comments from other dog owners.


'My son's miniature dachshund had the same thing,' one shared.

'They had some in their backyard under the camper trailer. Fake grass is not good.'

'So sorry to hear. Thanks for the warning,' another commented.

'I never use fake grass mats, same with stuffed toys, and those cheap type rope pull dog toys can do the same.'

'Gosh, we've never had issues with that, but one of our dogs used to like to eat stones,' a third lamented.

Others pointed out that they'd used fake grass for years without a problem.

'We have never had any issues with dogs or other animals eating grass causing obstructions,' one pet owner said.

'Who knows what causes them to eat items that are not food, but some just do.'


Why do dogs eat things they shouldn't?

The dog's emergency surgery was a success, yet the ordeal was a reminder of how quickly things can go wrong with pets.

According to Pet Insurance Australia, the average cost for surgery to remove a foreign object is over $5,000, with some cases reaching $41,671.

'Unfortunately, dogs—and even some cats—can and will eat almost anything,' Nadia Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia stated.

'We've seen pets swallow some incredibly unusual and dangerous items over the years.'

Veterinary experts agreed that some dogs are prone to 'dietary indiscretion' or eating things they should not.

While fake grass mats are popular with campers and caravaners, they're also commonly used at home.

Many people use them for toilet training puppies, lining steps, or creating a low-maintenance patch of green in the backyard.

This means the risk isn't limited to those on the road—anyone with fake grass at home should be aware of the potential danger.


What can happen if your dog eats fake grass?

Dr Patricia Rosenstein from the Small Animal Specialist Hospital (SASH) explained that the biggest risk is gastrointestinal obstruction.

Symptoms can come on quickly or develop over several days.

If you notice your dog is off their food, vomiting, lethargic, or straining to go to the toilet, it's time to see the vet.

What about cats?

It's worth noting that cats can also get into mischief.

While they're less likely to eat fake grass, they're not immune to swallowing string, hair ties, or other household hazards.

Accidents can happen to even the most careful pet owners.

The best defence is awareness and supervision.

If you use fake grass mats at home, keep a close eye on your pets and consider alternatives if your dog likes chewing on things.

Stay safe, and give your furry friends an extra pat!
Have you had a close call with your pet eating something strange? Share your stories and tips for keeping your home pet-friendly in the comments section below!