PO BOX 95   Sunderland, MA 01375

Northeastern Boxer Rescue is saddened by the sudden loss of one of our wonderful rescue dogs.  The cause of death appears to be a blockage caused by a rawhide toy.  It's in loving memory of Maxwell that we offer this warning.     RAWHIDE WARNING

Rawhide, pig's ears, hooves, snouts - these are all toys that dogs love!  These are all toys that are easily available.  But most importantly, these are all toys that can kill your dog.

Have you ever touched a rawhide toy after your dog has spent some time with it?  It becomes slimy and sticky.  Often, when ingested by a dog, these slimy pieces will stick to a dog's throat and cause choking.   More often, pieces of sticky rawhide will stick to the intestines and can result in a stomach blockage.  In these cases, emergency surgery will be performed.  Unfortunately, in many cases, death will occur.  The dangers of rawhide have been well documented and we at NBR recommend that these products not be used.

Recommended Substitutes - hard rubber toys such as Kongs (stuffed with peanut butter for an extra special treat).  Nylabones and sterilized natural bones will satisfy your dog's need to chew.  Always remove and throw out chew toys when they become too small for your dog to safely use.    Rope tug toys.  Plush toys, balls, soft rubber toys should be used with caution keeping in mind your dog's ability to destroy these toys and making certain that the size of the toy is appropriate for your dog.  Never use a toy that is too small and can be swallowed by your dog.  Always remove and throw out plush and soft rubber toys as soon as the toy shows signs of damage.