PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – When the spring season arrives and the grass starts to grow, some dogs tend to chew on it. But the question is: do you let a dog chew on grass or not?
Pennsylvania animal advocate Carol Erickson, SPCA, explained that it is a natural instinct for dogs to eat grass. Eating grass has some benefits for dogs, including supporting digestion and fiber intake.
However, Erickson noted that if grass is treated or watered, it is best not to let a dog eat it.
If you want to control the grass your dog eats, you can grow some grass indoors or maintain an untreated area on your property.
Erickson also said a dog’s interest in chewing grass may be related to boredom and anxiety. To prevent this, it is important to ensure that a dog interacts with people and remains active.
Some dogs also eat grass when they see another dog doing it or to get attention from their owners.
Erickson noted that the theory that dogs eat grass to self-medicate or induce vomiting is only speculation.
Pennsylvania SPCA Pets for Adoption
Meet Picard!
Picard is eight years old and is ready to meet children and other dogs. Erickson says he is a nice guy who is very talkative.
Meet Linus!
Linus is four years old and loves people. He has made a full recovery after suffering injuries that appeared to be caused by a car accident. Erickson describes him as easy-going and friendly.
Meet Star!
Star is described as a sweet, cuddly girl who is older but very sociable. She is very cuddly and should be the only cat in the house.
If you would like to learn more about these wonderful friends up for adoption, please contact the PSPCA at adoptions@pspca.org or call 215-426-6300.
You can also watch this week’s full Pet Project interview with Erickson in the video player above. Stay tuned until the end to meet Picard, Linus and Star.
CBS News Philadelphia staff
