National Pet Choking Prevention Day is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about the preventable tragedy of pet choking incidents. The initiative aims to educate pet owners and the general public about the risks, prevention, and first aid techniques related to pet choking accidents.
When is National Pet Choking Prevention Day?
In an effort to raise awareness about the preventable tragedy of pet choking incidents, National Pet Choking Prevention Day is observed on June 22.
The pet awareness day was launched by Bow Wow Labs in 2023 with the aim of educating pet owners and the general public about the potential risks and measures to prevent choking accidents in pets.
National Pet Choking Prevention Day was launched by the inventors of the life-protecting Bow Wow Buddy™ safety device which tightly secures bully sticks and other long-lasting chews This helps prevent dogs from choking on that last small bit while at the same time reducing the potential risk of obstruction on the tail-end of the treat.
Teaming up with renowned veterinarian and spokesperson Dr. Judy Morgan, National Pet Choking Prevention Day has a simple mission of “Target: Zero” by spreading awareness of the everyday pet choking hazards around your home.
The Danger of Choking
According to recent statistics, choking incidents are one of the leading causes of pet deaths each year, and over 200,000 pets experience a choking incident every year just in the United States alone.
These incidents often occur when pets accidentally ingest small objects, bones, or food items that obstruct their airways. Immediate action is crucial during such emergencies, as often a pet’s life can be saved with prompt intervention.
Which Households Items Are Most Likely to Cause Your Dog to Choke?
In dogs, the five most common choking hazards are:
- Balls
- Sticks
- Chew Toys
- Bully Sticks, Treats and Long Term Chews
- Food Packaging and Trash
And since many, like us, also share their homes with cats, let’s have a look at the five most common choking hazards for cats:
- String
- Window Blind Cords
- Fishing Pole/Wand Type Toys
- Plastic
- Rubber Bands and Hair Ties
Sadly, pet choking tragedies (or near-tragedies when the pet does survive) cause panic, fear and anxiety for pets, pet parents and the veterinary professionals worldwide that try to save their lives. Hopefully this awareness day will help focus attention on the simple extra steps pet lovers can take to keep their pets safe from choking hazards.
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Photo courtesy Bow Wow Labs
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