Dog owners are urged to stay vigilant after multiple reports emerged about specific chew toys causing severe behavioral changes in pets. Known as "werewolf syndrome," this alarming condition has been linked to certain dog chews imported from China.

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) of the UK has issued warnings, highlighting the potential risks associated with these products.

Photo: Pexels

Certain dog chew toys imported from China are linked to 'Werewolf Syndrome.'

What is 'Werewolf Syndrome'?

'Werewolf syndrome' refers to a set of sudden and severe behavioral changes in dogs. Symptoms include panic attacks, aggression, spasms, epileptic fits, and in extreme cases, death. These changes can be terrifying for both pets and their owners, raising concerns about the safety of the affected chew toys.

Identified Hazardous Products

The FSA has identified several products from the Barkoo and Chrisco brands as potential culprits. These include various sizes of Barkoo kaustange natur and Barkoo kauknochen geknotet, along with Chrisco's Tyggeruller and Massive politistave lines. Each product comes with specific barcodes and packaging codes, which owners should check to ensure their pets are not exposed to these dangers.

Photo: Pexels

'Werewolf Syndrome' causes panic attacks and aggressive behavior in dogs.

Expert Warnings and Official Statements

Tina Potter, Head of Incidents at the FSA, emphasized the precautionary measures.

“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," she told the Standard. "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.”

Global Concerns and Reports

The issue first gained attention when a dog in the Netherlands died after consuming a Barkoo product. Following this tragic incident, the EU expressed concerns about the widespread distribution of these chews and their link to behavioral anomalies in dogs. Similar cases have been reported in other European countries, prompting the FSA to extend its warning to UK pet owners, Metro reports.

Photo: Pexels

Affected dogs may experience uncontrollable spasms and epileptic fits.

Advice for Dog Owners

Owners are strongly advised to discontinue the use of any Barkoo or Chrisco chews immediately. As NewsBytes reports, if a dog exhibits any of the aforementioned symptoms after consuming these treats, seeking prompt veterinary care is crucial. Veterinarians are also encouraged to report any suspected cases to the UK’s Animal and Plant Health Agency’s (APHA) Small Animal Surveillance system, aiding in the broader investigation.

Preventive Measures and Safety Tips

To prevent exposure, dog owners should:

• Check Packaging: Verify the barcode and packaging codes against the FSA’s list of affected products. 
• Purchase from Reputable Sources: Avoid buying dog chews from unknown international sellers or unverified online platforms.
• Monitor Dog Behavior: Keep an eye on any sudden changes in behavior and consult a vet if anything unusual is observed.

The FSA continues to work with European counterparts to understand the full scope of the issue and to prevent further incidents. Meanwhile, maintaining awareness and taking immediate action can help safeguard the health and well-being of beloved pets.

Photo: Pexels

In extreme cases, 'Werewolf Syndrome' can lead to the death of pets.

The emergence of 'werewolf syndrome' underscores the critical importance of vigilance in pet care. By staying informed and cautious about the products they use, dog owners can protect their pets from potentially life-threatening dangers.

As investigations continue, the collaborative efforts of agencies like the FSA and pet owners remain paramount in addressing and mitigating these risks.