Every pet parent knows the sound of happy chomping — a dog contentedly gnawing on a chew or a cat batting around a toy. But behind those playful moments can lurk a silent, deadly danger: choking. That’s why National Pet Choking Prevention Day, launched by the creators of the life-saving Bow Wow Buddy™ device, is a critical reminder to keep your pets safe from everyday hazards.
🎯 The Mission: “Target Zero”
This awareness campaign, in partnership with trusted holistic veterinarian Dr. Judy Morgan, aims for a bold goal: zero choking incidents through education and prevention. Because the sad truth is…
⚠️ Over 200,000 pets experience choking incidents every year in the U.S. alone.
Choking is a leading cause of pet emergencies — and often, tragedy. Many of these events are preventable with just a few extra precautions.
🐶 What Are the Top Choking Hazards for Dogs?
Balls (especially small ones that can slip into the throat)
Sticks (splinters and jagged ends = bad news)
Chew Toys (especially worn-down or broken ones)
Bully Sticks, Treats & Long-Term Chews (that last bite is the most dangerous)
Food Packaging & Trash (your leftovers could be their last meal)
The Bow Wow Buddy™ was designed specifically to secure treats like bully sticks to prevent that final, risky gulp that can lodge in the throat and cause suffocation. It’s a simple but powerful tool in the fight against pet choking.
🐱 Cat Parents, You’re Not Off the Hook
Cats have their own unique set of hazards — and curiosity can kill the cat if you’re not careful. Here are the top five choking risks for felines:
String (yarn, floss, sewing thread – all dangerous if swallowed)
Window Blind Cords
- Fishing Pole/Wand Toys
- Plastic Bits (from bags or packaging)
Rubber Bands & Hair Ties
- These items can block airways or cause serious internal damage. If it fits in your cat’s mouth, think twice about leaving it out.
🛑 Choking Happens Fast — Be Prepared
Pet choking is not only terrifying — it’s often silent. Unlike humans, pets don’t always make noise when they’re in distress. Recognizing the signs and acting quickly could save your best friend’s life.
🚨 Signs of choking include:
Gagging or retching
- Pawing at the mouth
- Panicked behavior
- Difficulty breathing
- Blue or gray gums
- 💡 How to Prevent Choking
Choose appropriately sized toys and treats
Supervise pets during chew time
Secure chews with devices like the Bow Wow Buddy™
Store trash and hazardous items safely out of reach
- Learn basic pet first aid and the Heimlich maneuver for pets
🐾 Bonus Tip: Microchip Registration Saves Lives Too
While preventing choking is key, being ready for other emergencies matters too. If your pet bolts during a panic episode (like a choking scare or vet visit), a registered microchip ensures they can be identified and returned to you.
➡️ That’s where iRegisterPets.com comes in.
We take care of registering your pet’s microchip quickly and correctly — so they’re always connected to you, even in an emergency.
🙌 Let’s Work Together Toward “Target Zero”
Choking deaths are preventable. With awareness, the right tools, and a little caution, we can help protect the pets we love from this all-too-common danger.
This National Pet Choking Prevention Day, do a quick sweep of your home. Check those toys. Toss anything risky. Secure those chews.
And most importantly — share this info with fellow pet parents.
You might just save a life. ❤️🐾