and Dr. Judy Morgan 
How can I safeguard my pet from the dangers going forward?
Pet choking occurrences occur daily in homes around the world. You may be aware of hazards like chews, treats and toys, but also consider choking risks with foods such as turnips or carrots, window blind cords, plastic snack bags, baby toys and other everyday items, as these can pose threats as well.
Size Matters
Toys and treats that are smaller than your pet’s windpipe or large enough to block the airway can create a choking hazard. Select proper sized toys, treats and chews for your pets. For instance, the diameter of a ball should always be wider than the width of your pet’s jaw. Toys should not be able to fit completely inside your pet’s mouth. Beware of chews and toys that break apart in large chunks but don’t break down as these can all be hazardous. Plus, a safety device like the Bow Wow Buddy® can secure bully sticks and other long-term chews to help prevent dogs from choking while chewing.
Know your pet
Each pet has different tendencies. If your pet is one who swallows things whole, keep that in mind, as it helps determine how you can best protect your pet. Knowing your pet’s habits and tendencies is important to identify potential hazards. And if you have a puppy or a kitten, always anticipate the worst and err on the side of caution using prevention.
Never leave your pet unattended with treats and chews
A good rule of thumb is if your pet is not finished by the time you get to the door, it is not okay to leave them with that treat or chew alone. Supervision is always recommended.
Take care with multi-species households
The perfect toy for your cat could be a choking hazard for your dog and vice versa. Take note of all your pet’s toys when you leave your pets unattended or leave the house. Also, if you have a baby or toddler at home, watch for small toys that are left behind, as those can easily pose a choking hazard for your dog or cat.
