'Fish hook-filled' dog treats found strewn along iconic American trail

A nature center is reporting a disturbing find on an iconic American trail, and the situation can serve as a good reminder for many Coloradans.

According to the Lehigh Gap Nature Center, located in Slatington, Pennsylvania, a weekend hiker discovered dog treats with fish hooks embedded in them on a stretch of the Appalachian Trail. More specifically, the treats were found on the stretch of the trail between PA Route 873 and the George W. Outerbridge Shelter, a portion of the trail that connects to the Lehigh Gap Nature Center trail system via Woodpecker Trail.

Presumably, there would be no reason for these treats to be crafted and left behind except for the purpose of harming animals that eat them.

The nature center has since removed the treats, which appear to be small beef filled snacks wrapped in a golden outer shell – like mini pigs-in-a-blanket, with the metal of an embedded fish hook slightly visible. This is a treat most dog owners would likely recognize on sight.

Authorities have been notified of the situation, but caution is still highly encouraged. If any of these treats are spotted by those in the area, report the finding to the nature center or authorities immediately.

The treats can obviously cause major health issues if a dog were to swallow one. The nature center did not address whether or not a dog has consumed one of the treats yet.

This situation can serve as a good reminder for those who hike with their dogs regardless of where they're hiking at.

It's best to never let an animal eat something found on the trail. Whether it's a dog treat that might be hiding a fish hook, a potentially dangerous plant or fungus, or a rotten dead animal that might be harboring parasites or bacteria, consumption of things found on the trail should not be allowed.

If your dog seems interested in eating something during a hike, it's best to call them off the item and to keep moving. If it's suspicious, report it to local authorities or park managers.

Images of the treats containing fish hooks that were found by the Lehigh Gap Nature Center can be found here.

The Appalachian trail travels over 2,000 miles between Georgia and Maine, attracting more than three million hikers each year.