Two families from Western Australia are demanding the recall of a popular dog treat after it led to their pets being hospitalized. Sasha Wadham and Graham Torpy, who live just 15 minutes apart in Perth, found themselves connected through a shared tragedy involving Bow Wow Dog Treats Prosciutto Bone. The treat, which is no longer available at Coles, caused serious health issues for their beloved dogs.
Wadham’s dog Tucker was rushed to the ICU within 48 hours of consuming the $8 bone treat. Vets discovered bone splinters inside Tucker, likely from the treat he had ingested. A quick search online revealed numerous negative reviews about the same product, prompting concerns about its safety and impact on dogs’ health.
Upon investigation, the spokesperson for Bow Wow Dog Treats acknowledged a few incidents related to the product in the past year. Following consultations with experts, the company decided to phase out the Prosciutto Bone by the end of the first quarter of 2025. This decision came after both Tucker and Lido, Torpy’s dog, faced life-threatening situations due to consuming the same treat.
Tucker’s ICU stay resulted in a substantial vet bill, leading Wadham to start an online fundraiser to cover the expenses. Torpy, on the other hand, had to dip into his savings meant for his wedding to pay for Lido’s surgery and care. Both owners were shocked by the severe health implications of a seemingly harmless dog treat.
Despite assurances from the treat’s manufacturer that these incidents were isolated, Wadham and Torpy joined forces to demand a recall of the Prosciutto Bone. They initiated a Change.org petition urging stockists like Woolworths, Big W, Coles, and Aldi to stop selling the potentially harmful treats. Their plea for action highlights the need for stricter regulations in the pet food industry to safeguard animals’ well-being.
The lack of stringent regulations in the Australian pet food industry has long been a concern for experts and pet owners alike. The Pet Food Industry Association of Australia has been advocating for better oversight and mechanisms to address consumer complaints effectively. However, the absence of a robust regulatory framework poses challenges in ensuring the safety and quality of pet food products.
Veterinarians can report health issues linked to pet food through PetFAST, a non-government alert system developed in collaboration with the Australian Veterinary Association. While this system allows for reporting and investigation of incidents, there is no mandate for manufacturers to recall products even after multiple complaints. This loophole underscores the pressing need for comprehensive regulations to protect pets from potential harm.
As Wadham and Torpy continue their campaign for accountability and safety in the pet food industry, their ordeal serves as a cautionary tale for pet owners nationwide. The call for transparency, accountability, and stricter regulations echoes a growing sentiment among consumers and experts alike, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the well-being of beloved pets.
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