Bully sticks, or pizzle sticks, are popular dog treats. They are commonly made from bull pizzles and are considered to be natural and delicious. As more pet owners have begun to seek out natural pet food options, the use of animal byproducts as treats has increased. Bully sticks are often touted for their health benefits, but recent studies have stated otherwise. Research shows bully sticks have high calorific value and may contain harmful contaminants. Digestive trouble Pet parents should carefully consider the risks before giving their pets bully sticks, as they may be contaminated during the manufacturing process. The treats are minimally processed, which makes them more susceptible to bacterial contamination. This can result in infections with Escherichia coli or Salmonella, causing digestive trouble for pets who chew on the treats. The drying process used during the production or manufacturing of these treats is insufficient to get rid of the contaminants, which poses a serious health risk for pets and their owners. The intake of such contaminated bully sticks can lead to food-borne illnesses, causing symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and lethargy in pets. In humans, the symptoms can be more severe, leading to potential complications. Choking hazard Bully sticks are among the most preferred durable treats for pets.