Play-Dead-A-Palooza shined light on an ugly reality with a cute day in the park — and the old dog trick of playing dead. In September, Bixbi Pet Products invited dogs and their humans to help raise awareness to the dangers of toxic chicken jerky treats made in China by rendezvousing at Scott Carpenter Park in Colorado and attempting to set the record for most dogs playing dead at once.
There’s been a steady stream of news about dogs falling ill or dying after consuming chicken jerky treats. At first, the epidemic resulted in a mere recall, but now the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is investigating this rash of dog illness and death.
Eleven dogs lay down and played dead for a period of five seconds. In order to set the record, all participating dogs had to be in the same location and they had to remain on the ground for at least those five seconds. Dog guardians were encouraged to get their dogs down by whatever means necessary — including lying down in the grass with their pooches.
As a result of the dogs’ accomplishment, they were awarded a RecordSetter certificate, as well as the satisfaction of knowing that they’ve contributed to the effort to help save dogs from tainted jerky treats. Watch the cute video below.
While this doesn’t bring back the dogs who’ve unfortunately passed after eating the treats, it does help ensure a safe future for other dogs. Please pass this on!
P.S. Dogsters, does your dog know how to play dead?
