Not Just Trash: The Food Bags Putting ND Pets at Risk

Hidden Danger: Food Bags Can Suffocate Pets

For many North Dakota families, pets are cherished members of the household. We take steps to protect them from the cold winters and make sure they have safe spaces to live.

There's a hidden danger inside our homes, often in plain sight: food bags. According to data from Prevent Pet Suffocation, Inc., seemingly harmless bags can become deadly traps.

How Suffocation Happens

When a curious pet puts its head inside a bag to get leftover crumbs or food, the bag can form a tight seal around their neck, cutting off their air supply. Suffocation can happen fast, sometimes in as little as 3 to 5 minutes.

It Can Happen Anywhere, Anytime

If you think the risk only exists when pets are left alone for long periods, you'd be wrong. Half of the reported suffocation incidents happened while someone was home. In 20% of cases where the owner was away, they were gone for less than 15 minutes, and 40% were gone for under an hour.

Which Pets Are at Risk?

Any pet can be at risk, but dogs are involved in 89% of cases, with medium-sized dogs (25-75 lbs) being the most common victims.

What Bags Pose the Biggest Threat?

All plastic or foil-lined bag can be dangerous, but some are more commonly involved than others:

• Chip Bags: Involved in 47% of reported cases.
• Pet Food Bags
• Snack Bags (other than chips)
• Cereal Bags/Liners
• Plastic Food Bag

Steps to Keep Your North Dakota Pets Safe

1. Cut Up Bags Before Disposal: Before throwing any chip bags, snack bags, pet food bags, or cereal liners away, cut them up. Cut down the sides and across the bottom to prevent them from forming a seal.
2. Store Food Securely: Keep chips, snacks, pet food, and other goodies in rigid, airtight containers that pets cannot easily open or knock over. Store them in secure cupboards or pantries.
3. Secure Your Trash: Use pet-proof trash cans with secure lids, especially in the kitchen. Remember to still cut up bags before putting them in the bin.

 A few simple changes to our routines can prevent a devastating accident.