A veterinary student has issued an urgent and heartbreaking warning to all dog owners across the UK after her own beloved pet died in a tragic game of fetch.
A Bond Broken by a Stick
Ally, a dedicated vet student, welcomed her corgi, Lucy, in 2020. The pair shared an extraordinary bond, with Ally describing Lucy as her 'soul dog'. Together, they excelled in various canine sports, from obedience to dock diving, while Ally pursued her veterinary qualifications.
Tragically, in 2024, Lucy's life was cut short following a seemingly innocent game of fetch that went horrifically wrong. The pair were playing outdoors with a stick they had found, a common activity for many dog owners.
The Horrific Incident and Its Aftermath
During the game, the stick suddenly became wedged in the back of Lucy's mouth. This led to a severe infection developing. Despite Ally's knowledge and swift surgical intervention to try and save her, Lucy tragically passed away.
In an emotional post on Instagram, which has been viewed over 1.5 million times, Ally expressed her deep remorse. "A year ago I lost my best friend because I decided it was okay for her to play fetch with a stick," she explained. She acknowledged that she 'knew better' but never anticipated such a devastating outcome from a simple stick.
Official Warnings and Safer Alternatives
Ally's devastating experience echoes warnings from leading animal welfare bodies. Organisations like the British Veterinary Association (BVA) and the Kennel Club consistently caution against using real sticks for fetch.
The Kennel Club states: "Stick injuries to dogs can range from minor cuts and scrapes to infections from stick splinters and even fatal injuries." They emphasise that these injuries are preventable and advise owners to never throw sticks for dogs.
Instead, they strongly recommend using safer, purpose-made alternatives such as:
- Rubber 'fetch sticks'
- Durable rubber balls
- Frisbees designed for dogs
- Other robust dog toys
These products are designed with canine safety in mind, lacking the sharp, splintering edges of natural wood.
In the comments under Ally's post, many shared similar near-misses, highlighting how common such incidents are. One owner recounted their Australian Shepherd requiring throat surgery after a stick got stuck, while another described a Belgian Malinois needing stitches under its tongue from a lodged stick.
Ally's final, poignant plea to all dog owners is clear: "So the next time you play fetch, choose a ball, frisbee, or toy. Anything but a stick. I'd still be playing fetch with her today if I hadn't used a stick for fetch."
