FDA reports dozens of pet illnesses with some relating to "bone treats"

Many dog owners know not to toss a turkey or chicken bone to their canine companion, but the FDA reported some "bone treats" sold in stores are even riskier.

According to a warning on their website, the FDA says it has received about 68 reports of pet illnesses and approximately 15 deaths related to "bone treats."

These treats differ from uncooked butcher-type bones because they are processed and packaged for sale as dog treats.

A variety of commercially available bone treats for dogs including treats described as "Ham Bones," "Pork Femur Bones," "Rib Bones" and "Smokey Knuckle Bones" were listed in the reports.

The products may be dried through a smoking process or by baking and may contain other ingredients such as preservatives, seasonings and smoke flavorings.

Carmela Stamper, a veterinarian in the Center for Veterinary Medicine at the FDA, said, "Giving your dog a bone treat might lead to an unexpected trip to your veterinarian, a possible emergency surgery, or even death for your pet."

Illnesses reported to FDA by owners and veterinarians in dogs that have eaten bone treats have included:

- Gastrointestinal obstruction (blockage in the digestive tract)

- Choking

- Cuts and wounds in the mouth or on the tonsils

- Vomiting

- Diarrhea

- Bleeding from the rectum

- Death

The reports, sent in by pet owners and veterinarians, involved about 90 dogs with some reports including more than one dog. In addition, the FDA received seven reports of product problems, such as moldy-appearing bones or bone treats splintering when chewed by the pet.

To report a problem with a pet food or treat, visit the FDA's website.