You know the good old stick the go to hiking toy or camp toy. The I’m at the park but forgot my dogs toy in the car. Well are your really doing your best friend a favor with playing with a stick? Yeah its convenient but the stick could also lead to a number of problems it could splinter can result in sharp points lodging in your dog’s mouth or esophagus and causing tears or infections. Sticks that are too small or easily chewed and swallowed completely can get lodged in the throat and result in obstruction or infection of the respiratory tract. Sticks that make it past the respiratory tract into the stomach and bowels can result in irritation, bleeding or obstruction. Additionally, certain trees such as black walnut, black cherry, yew or red maple can be toxic to dogs.
You can avoid this by teaching your beloved dog to leave sicks alone. Using positive reinforcement you can teach him, but as with any other behavior issue, stopping your dog from chewing and eating sticks involves patience, and vigilance. You can replace stick with a toy like the Skamp, so when you see your dog about to chomp down on a stick, use his or her favorite toy as a distraction. Your will also have to learn to get into the habit of coming prepared with the toy so that you won’t have your dog looking for a toy outlet.
Chewing is a natural behavior but it’s best to curb stick-chewing if you can, and replace sticks with appropriate toys.
The Skamp is much safer than sticks but ready for toss, fetch and tug-of-war. By combining an engaging three-lobe shape with superior durability, Skamp gives dogs that bounce-back resistance they love. Skamp flies far and floats for water-loving dogs. It’s fun for two dogs, super bouncy and delivers a satisfying spring and sensation to dogs who love to chew.
Why Dog’s Best Friend Loves it.
- Safer Than a Stick
- Super fun colors like eggplant, jungle green and melon
- Flyer Inspired & Fun to Throw
- Great for Tug-of-War
- Fun for two dogs
- Dishwasher Safe
- Non-Toxic
- Latex-Free
- BPA and Phthalate-free
- Made in the U.S.A.
West paw also knows no toy is indestructible so the toys are backed by their Love It Guarantee™ *No dog toy is indestructible. Choose only toys that are the appropriate shape and size for your dog and always supervise your dog’s use of toy. If your dog is one of the few that can damage one of our tough Zogoflex Echo toys, please discontinue use of the toy immediately and take advantage of the Love It Guarantee™.