A vet has revealed the five everyday things he would never do with his own dog, issuing a stark warning to pet owners across the country. Vet Marcus, known as @thefriendlyvet on social media, listed the 'common but dangerous' things that could put pets in harm's way.
Five habits to avoid
In his TikTok video, he begins by explaining that he would never take his dog, Charlie, to a dog park, as he has no desire to risk his pet contracting an illness or being attacked by another animal.
He also states that he would never give Charlie a bone or bully stick to chew on, as they can 'easily damage your dogs' teeth', potentially resulting in a hefty vet's bill. As a safer alternative, he recommends that owners opt for dental sticks instead.
Walking and feeding advice
Thirdly, he said: "I will never walk him without a leash. All it takes is one squirrel or a tennis ball and now he is in the middle of the street and gets hit by a car."
Highlighting an obvious one, he adds that he would never discontinue the use of long-term medications, preventatives or vaccines, stressing that they are prescribed and recommended for good reason.
Finally, he says he would never "free feed" him, as controlling his mealtimes makes it far easier to maintain a healthy, balanced diet. He also notes that a structured feeding routine enables him to spot any reduction in appetite, which could be a "huge underlying marker that something is wrong".
Public reaction
Responding to the expert's post, one follower commented: "Thank God I am not the only one not taking my dog to the dog park. I always feel guilty but I know is for his own protection." Another user commented: "Love all of this! I used to not give bully sticks either till I found bw_labs buddy that helps prevent choking!"
A third user remarked: "Yeah, I will never take my dog to the dog park because you do not know what disease they can get. Parvo is one of the worst." An additional user wrote: "I have never done any of these. Best thing I did was purchase preventative insurance when she was a puppy. Has made preventative care so affordable."
Yet another user chimed in: "Free-feeding works for us because ours dogs are the biggest grazers and sometimes won't touch food for a full day! Depends on the dog!" And a final user concluded: "My puppy loves the dog park I have to take her there once a day. She has made so many friends there. I go there every day."
