Softwood shaving could cause diseases in animals People should know that softwood shavings, particularly cedar and pine, have been linked to liver, respiratory, skin and immune functioning diseases in animals constantly exposed to them.
Veterinarians usually recommend beddings made from reclaimed wood pulp waste, pressed paper pellets, alfalfa, grain byproducts, aspen, unprinted newspaper or newspaper printed with soy ink.
Those caring for dogs may know that earlier this year, certain batches of rawhide dog chews were recalled as a precaution against salmonella contamination. Actually, it is best to always avoid giving dogs rawhide. Most veterinarians I spoke with say that rawhide ingestion puts dogs at risk for bacterial infections, digestive disturbances (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), and blockage of the intestines - which can be fatal. Some dogs have choked to death on rawhide. Although chewing rawhide may enhance dogs' dental health, veterinarians recommend using chew toys and "bones" made from hard rubber or nylon, feeding dogs hard, dry, sugar-free food and regularly rubbing your dog's teeth and gums with cloth or gauze as safer means of preventing canine dental problems. It also helps to regularly brush your dog's teeth with a soft toothbrush and a little baking soda.
Prior to learning about the hazards of softwood shavings, I used pine beddings with a succession of hamsters. They enjoyed climbing, treadmills and wholesome food in well ventilated, spacious cages. Nevertheless, they all died far short of normal life span. Today, my pet mice are doing well with a nontoxic bedding, with soft tissue paper added.
Manufacturers of softwood beddings argue that these repel parasites better than other beddings. Topical sprays or ointments containing pyrethrins also eliminate mites, fleas and ticks.
Athena, my black Labrador retriever, used to get a rawhide treat every night. Approximately twice a month, she had vomiting spells. Since discontinuing rawhide two years ago, the vomiting has stopped.
Hopefully, this information will benefit companion animals and their care providers in your locality.
Joel Freedman
Canandaigua, N.Y.
(Editor's note: Mr. Freedman chairs the public education committee of animal advocates of upstate New York.)
actually im sure derek ( e one who did cyber piggies ) had long ago mentioned n highlight abt e dangers of such bedg juz tt i nv pay close attention..
