As pet owners, we often seek out special treats to show our beloved companions, like my dog Misty, a little extra love. However, what seems like a harmless indulgence can sometimes lead to terrifying health emergencies. This is a firsthand account of a harrowing experience with Misty after she consumed contaminated steak treats, highlighting the critical importance of vigilance in choosing pet food and treats.
The Terrifying Night
Misty, my furry family member, recently endured a frightening health crisis. It began when I gave her a few steak carryout treats, similar to ones I had previously given my miniature Pinscher, Daisy, over a decade ago. Within a short period, Misty started vomiting blood and experiencing severe, bloody diarrhea. The situation escalated rapidly, leading to a frantic search for an emergency veterinarian. Many clinics had restrictive policies, limiting overnight and weekend care to VIP members only, further adding to the distress of the situation.
Emergency Care and Recovery
Throughout the night, Misty’s condition remained critical. By morning, the vomiting had subsided, but her stools were still alarmingly bloody. Drawing on past experience with Misty’s post-stroke care, I focused on supportive measures. This involved administering water via a medicine syringe and carrying her in a homemade sling to minimize movement. Feeding was reintroduced cautiously, starting with small amounts of her regular food every hour, only if she tolerated the previous dose well. Once she could chew again, I continued to carry her in the sling while she was inside, ensuring minimal exertion.
Veterinary Diagnosis and Recommendations
We finally managed to get Misty to a veterinarian on the following Monday, several days after the initial incident. The vet confirmed that my home-care approach had been appropriate and commended my actions. The primary recommendation was to never give her those specific treats again. They also suggested an alternative, healthier treat that Misty has since taken a strong liking to, much to my relief.
Lingering Concerns and Past Experiences
This incident brought back unsettling memories of my previous pets. With Daisy, my miniature Pinscher, I often wondered if the same type of treats played a role in her declining health. She had been rescued after being used for breeding and was suffering from cancer. The vet at that time had advised me to switch to homemade meals, and Daisy’s seizures and response to cancer medication improved significantly. I also have a haunting memory of my grandma’s Sheltie, who was found deceased one morning, with no apparent cause other than a puddle of bloody bile. It makes one question the potential long-term effects of commercially produced treats.
Reporting the Incident
Following Misty’s recovery, we reported the incident to the local Walmart where the treats were purchased. The response from customer service was disheartening. One employee expressed a wish to discard such products, while another casually remarked that this was “nothing new,” indicating a potential recurring issue with these treats.
A Crucial Warning for Pet Owners
This experience serves as a stark reminder to all pet owners: be extremely cautious about the treats and foods you offer your pets. Always research brands, check ingredients, and be aware of potential recalls or health concerns associated with specific products. If your pet experiences any adverse reactions, seek veterinary attention immediately and report the incident to both the veterinarian and the manufacturer. Your vigilance can be the key to your pet’s health and safety. For more information on choosing safe and healthy options for your pets, consider researching best allergy medicine for dogs with itchy skin.
