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Precautionary warning for dog chews from China
The chews may be causing sudden and severe behavioural changes.
Dogs displayed acute neurological signs.

A precautionary product safety warning has been issued for a number of dog chew products imported from China.

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is advising dog owners to avoid specific dog chews, after EU countries such as the Netherlands, Germany and Finland also released warnings.

The warning relates to a number of Barkoo and Chrisco branded products that originated in China. Although these products are not currently purchasable in the UK, there are concerns that the product may have been available online recently.

The products also have a long shelf life, and may have been purchased several months ago.

The chews could be linked with a behavioural response in dogs that is being described as ‘werewolf syndrome’.

These sudden and severe changes include panic attacks, aggression, howling, barking, restlessness, drooling and epileptic fits. Differentials also include distemper and, in recently imported dogs, rabies.

As a result of these symptoms, some dogs have died or been euthanised.

Cases in mainland Europe have been successfully managed by ceasing use of the chews and providing symptomatic care, including sedatives and antiepileptics where appropriate.

Owners who identify these symptoms in their dog should contact their veterinary surgeon as soon as possible. The causative agent for the reaction is not currently known.

If a veterinary professional suspects that the case is linked to dog chews, they must report the case to the Animal and Plant Health Agency’s Small Animal Surveillance.

Tina Potter, head of incidents at FSA, said: “While there is no confirmed distribution of affected products to the UK, there is the possibility that some consumers may have purchased these online from international sellers.

“No unsafe dog chews have been identified but, based on international investigations so far, we are advising dog owners to avoid feeding the affected chews to dogs as a precaution. There is no evidence to suggest these products present any risk to human health.”

The full list of suspected products can be found here.

Image © Shutterstock

 

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Veterinary Dispensary Manager Online Course relaunched

News Story 1
 The VMD has announced dates for its next Veterinary Dispensary Manager Online Course.

The event will relaunch on Thursday, 23 October 2025 from 9am to 5pm and will be delivered through an interactive online session.

It is open for anyone involved in a veterinary dispensary role, whether they are new to the topic or looking for a refresh. Attendees will receive vital insights into the safe and compliant handling of veterinary medicines.

The course can be booked online for £495. 

Click here for more...
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The guidance is free and has been produced to help veterinary practitioners select the most appropriate antibiotic for rabbits. It covers active substance, dose and route of administration all of which are crucial factors when treating rabbits owing to the risk of enterotoxaemia.

For more information and to access the guide, visit the BSAVALibrary.