Most dog owners have seen rope toys before. Usually, they’re colorful and knotted, with tags attached claiming that they are safe, durable, and great for playing.
What the toy companies don’t tell you, though, is that they can be extremely dangerous — even fatal.
Source: Vizsla Dog Lovers / Facebook
Indria Tuckler, an experienced Golden Retriever breeder, published a post on Facebook that was shocking for dog lovers. It was regarding the rope toys…and it was filled with tragic news.
She purchased several rope toy balls (pictured above) at her local Home Goods. At first glance, they appeared to be durable toys for her dogs.
Only one day after buying the toys, though, she came home to them in pieces. She gathered up the debris and threw away the sections of rope, hoping that none of her dogs attempted to eat the pieces.
Source: Vizsla Dog Lovers / Facebook
Unfortunately, her one-year-old Golden Retriever Sam did ingest the rope toy. It unraveled, and as she tried to pass it, it tore several holes in her intestines.
During emergency surgery, the surgeons removed 3 feet of rope and 14 inches of perforated intestines.
Source: Vizsla Dog Lovers / Facebook
Sam became septic and bled from her intestines into her stomach. It happened so quickly, her owner didn’t have the option for another surgery.
Tragically, she passed away two days after ingesting the rope toy.
The heartbroken breeder posted online to caution other dog owners from buying the dangerous rope toys. The following is the information she included in her warning:
- The toys can be found at Petsmart, Petco, Homegoods, Marshall’s and TJ Maxx
- The rope balls fell apart within one day
- The dog’s symptoms after ingesting the toy were: vomiting, diarrhea, excessive water consumption and lack of appetite (which are common symptoms that can be mistaken for stomach upset, parasites, parvo, and other issues)
- It’s difficult to identify ingested rope; x-rays do not work well and ultrasounds will show the rope, but only surgery will confirm
- The only treatment is surgery
- Dogs of every age and breed are at risk
Many dog owners don’t expect rope toys to be dangerous, but when the rope unravels, it’s deadly. Linear objects pose more danger when ingested because they will travel along the intestines, gather into a tight ball, and severely damage the tissue.
Sam’s death was completely senseless; these toys should be banned from being sold.
Make sure to tell family, friends, co-workers, and any animal lover you know that these toys are deceptively fatal and to stop buying them. If the word is spread, the lives of innocent dogs could be saved.
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10 Of The “Most Loyal” Dog Breeds On The Planet
Giving love and support to humans is something that some dogs do better than others.
While many dogs love everyone they meet and are willing to take treats or belly rubs from anyone, the pups we found are just the opposite.
These 10 dogs are some of the most loyal breeds on the planet. They are rock steady in their loyalty to their owner no matter what.
1) Akita
When the American Kennel Club (AKC) lists loyalty to describe the temperament of the Akita, you know they mean business. The beautiful double-coated working dog of Japanese ancestry is considered hardwired in protecting those she loves. They should be socialized with other dogs and people from the time they are puppies. Their silly, fun, but dignified personalities round out the loyal Akita.
Source: NicoMonaco/Flickr
2) Boxer
This working dog is smart, full of energy, and oh so loyal to their family. They get along great with kids and have an innate instinct to protect their pack. He’s a watchdog with a heart of gold who oozes dedication to his owner.
Source: Pierre Pocs Photography/Flickr
3) Skye Terrier
Known as the “small dog with the big ears,” this adorable breed hails from the Scottish Isle of Skye, hence the name. Whether you live in the city or the country, this small dog with a big personality is steadfast in snuggling, playtime, and remaining loyal to his owners.
Source: WaketheSun/Flickr
4) Beagle
This merry hound is friendly, curious and incredibly loyal. While he doesn’t mind the occasional couch potato time, this spunky pooch is energetic and merry. A fun fact about this hound: the breed standard is for 13 inches and under and another in the 13-15 inch category. No matter how you size him, these adorable dogs just want to cling to you.
Source: Simon Hameau/Flickr
5) Shar-Pei
This wrinkly non-sporting breed is standoffish to strangers but very loyal to his owner. His ancient Chinese roots are part of the charm of the Shar-Pei. Regal, strong, and smart, if you want a BFF for life, this loose-skinned pooch may be the right choice for you.
Source: Alessandro Persano/Flickr
