Critters 101:  The Grill on Greenies Greenies are a brand of green, toothbrush-shaped dog treats developed to keep dogs’ teeth and gums healthy.  Many of you buy Greenies and have seen how much dogs seem to like and crave them.  I know lots of folks who give them to their dogs and their teeth and gums do seem to be cleaner and healthier.  Lately, stories have been circulating through email and the news about dogs choking on them.  I have not been able to investigate or substantiate these stories but I did want to share what Greenies has to say about this recent publicity.  Joe Roetheli, founder and CEO of S&M NuTec L.L.C. (manufacturers of Greenies) responded to these reports stating that their digestibility testing showed Greenies to be 85% digestible when adequately chewed.  The primary ingredient is wheat gluten, which is very digestible.  It is also important to give the correct size Greenie for the weight category of your dog.  Greenies are not appropriate for all dogs.  The feeding directions state that Greenies should not be fed to dogs less than six months old, dogs less than five pounds, and dogs who gulp food and treats.         “Millions of Greenies are sold, and enjoyed by dogs, every week, without         incident.  We are a responsible company, we love pets, and we continue to                 educate consumers on the benefits of treating your pets to smart products with         healthy benefits, as well as the importance of feeding as directed”.            Many pet products – from chews to biscuits to toys – can potentially injure or sicken dogs under certain conditions and circumstances.  We don’t have enough information to know whether Greenies pose a greater than normal danger to dogs under ordinary use or whether we are just seeing a flux of exceptional cases.  I suggest that pet owners monitor their dogs when feeding any food or treat and if you have a gulper in the house then take extra precaution.