Leading veterinarians have issued a stark warning to dog owners about the dangers of throwing sticks for their pets to fetch, following a rise in serious injuries. The British Veterinary Association (BVA) reported cases of dogs suffering from splinters, cuts, and even sticks becoming lodged in their throats, with some incidents proving fatal.
Grace Webster, president of the BVA in Scotland, advised owners to switch to safer alternatives such as rubber sticks, balls, or Frisbees. She highlighted a recent case where a collie required emergency surgery after a 10cm stick punctured its tongue and displaced its voicebox. “Throwing sticks can lead to horrific injuries,” Webster said, noting that splinters often require multiple operations.
Sean Wensley, BVA president, said vets across the UK are familiar with these life-threatening injuries. He explained that sticks can become impaled in a dog’s throat, introducing bacteria and damaging the oesophagus or spinal cord. “Some dogs have to be put down due to the injuries or subsequent infections,” he added.
However, not everyone agrees with the advice. TV presenter Ben Fogle dismissed the warning, stating he had thrown sticks for 35 years without issue. Despite this, the BVA emphasises that dog-safe toys provide the same fun without the risks.
The warning follows an incident in North Lanarkshire, where a smooth collie named Maya underwent emergency surgery after a 4-inch stick became stuck in her throat. Owner Cath Pryde said she had no idea the stick was the problem until the vet removed it. Maya has since made a full recovery.
