Recently, there have been reports in several European countries of dogs developing “Werewolf Syndrome”. While not a recognised medical condition, it causes neurological symptoms such as aggression, excessive barking and agitation, howling, restlessness, excessive chewing and even more serious symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea and seizures. When grouped together, these symptoms align with the category of inflammation affecting the brain and nervous system.
In the UK, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) is advising pet parents to immediately stop giving these products to their pets and to closely monitor them for any unusual behaviour or neurological symptoms (see the FSA website for details). More specifically, the FSA is urging consumers to stop purchasing Barkoo and Chrisco rawhide products, which are available online. Additionally, if a dog exhibits any concerning symptoms, the FSA strongly recommends seeking prompt veterinary care.
The category of rawhide chews and treats has long been a topic of controversy due to the processes involved in their production. Rawhide chews are a by-product of the leather industry, where a cow’s skin is split—the upper layer is used for leather, while the lower layer is processed into dog chews. However, the methods used to store, process, and preserve rawhide are widely debated, particularly concerning the use of chemicals such as formaldehyde and bleach, which have raised concerns about the impact of rawhide chews on a dogs’ health.
The most popular advantage of rawhide chews is their long-lasting nature, which helps exercise a dog’s teeth and gums while also reducing boredom. However, the potential side effects, along with the risks of choking and intestinal blockages, require careful consideration.
At Earth Animal we developed No Hide as the original rawhide alternative, capturing the benefits of a long-lasting chew, without the potential side effects often associated with rawhide. No-Hide Chews are made with simple sustainable ingredients, such as brown rice, eggs, and bananas. No-Hide Chews are long lasting, help promote healthy teeth and gums, eliminate boredom and are significantly more digestible than rawhide. For more information see https://earthanimal.com/our-products/chews-and-treats/
