Since we started this column back in September, I think I’ve successfully scared you half to death about all the things that could kill you, give you herpes or an uncontrollable case of the runs. It feels like it’s time for a change of pace, so instead of freaking you out about your own body today, how about I freak you out about your dog’s?
The L.A. Times ran a story this morning about an FDA warning regarding bones for dogs — namely, that we’re dummies who’ve been giving them to our furry pets this whole time despite the fact that they’re actually really dangerous. Cases that have been reported to the FDA include owners whose dogs have had blockages, diarrhea, vomiting, bleeding from the rectum and even died.
The focus of the warning is on processed “bones treats,” often labeled as “Ham Bones,” “Pork Femur Bones,” “Rib Bones,” and “Smokey Knuckle Bones,” products that have either been cooked, smoked or dried.
But before you snatch away your dog’s favorite snack, know that not all dog bones are created equal. Some of what you’ll find in your local pet store are perfectly fine, such as any bone that is unprocessed, i.e., raw.
The difference is that raw bones are still full of natural moisture, making them softer. Processed bones are dry, making them brittle and more likely to result in splinters that can do damage to your dog’s digestive system. Not only that, but processed bones are often loaded with preservatives and flavorings that can make your dog sick.
So before you go grabbing that smoky-smelling moose hip for Fido, read the label — it could save your best bud’s life.
Now that Woofy’s taken care of, here’s a few things we learned about our bodies today:
- Why risk the look on your pharmacist’s face when you pick up your boner pills when you can now get a prescription for and order your Viagra over the internet?
- Poop pills! Get your poop pills here!
- Have asthma? Maybe what you need to beat it is more testosterone.
- Veterans are leading the charge to use cannabis to treat PTSD.
- In today’s “no, duh” news, think twice of heading south of the border for cheaper medication. The UN is reporting that up to 11 percent of prescription drugs in poorer nations are fake.
Jeff Gross
Jeff Gross is MEL’s senior editor for social media and content marketing. His daily ICYMI column, which chronicles all things meta on the site, is the quickest way to catch up on MEL, and the funniest thing you’ll read all day. Follow him on Twitter.
