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Foreign body ingestion is a common condition among dogs. It occurs when a dog swallows a non-food item, such as a toy, sock, or even a rock. If left untreated, foreign body ingestion can lead to serious health complications. This article will discuss the signs of foreign body ingestion in dogs, its causes, steps to take after you realize you’re working with a dog with foreign body ingestion, and how to ensure your pet receives the appropriate care.
What Is Foreign Body Ingestion?
Foreign body ingestion occurs when a dog swallows a non-food item. The severity of ingesting a foreign object depends on the size of your dog and the type and size of the item swallowed. Some items like pieces of rubber toys or small plastic pieces may pass through the dog’s system without issue. However, other items, such as rocks, metal objects, or large plastic items, can cause serious damage by obstructing the gastrointestinal tract or causing internal injuries.
Some common items dogs may ingest include:
- Toys (especially those with small parts)
- Socks, underwear, or other clothing items
- Rocks or stones
- Coins or other small metal objects
- Sticks or bones
What Are the Signs of Foreign Body Ingestion?
The signs of foreign body ingestion can vary depending on the size of the dog, the specific item swallowed, and the length of time it has been inside the dog’s system. Some of the most common signs include:
- Vomiting: Foreign bodies lodged in the stomach or upper digestive tract can cause your dog to vomit.
- Diarrhea: When an indigestible object is present in the intestines, it can cause inflammation and diarrhea.
- Refusal to eat: A dog with an ingested foreign body may refuse to eat due to pain or discomfort.
- Lethargy: Pain, dehydration, or even injuries to your dog’s digestive tract can make your dog become weaker and less energetic.
- Abdominal pain or distension: The presence of a foreign object can cause swelling or pain in the abdomen.
- Difficulty breathing: Ingested objects that cause obstruction or injury to the throat or esophagus may lead to difficulty breathing.
If you notice even one of these signs in your dog, it’s essential to contact your veterinarian immediately.
What Are the Causes of Foreign Body Ingestion?
Dogs are curious animals and may swallow a non-food item out of boredom or exploration. Some dogs may also develop the habit of eating non-food items due to pica or anxiety.
- Lack of proper supervision: Dogs left unsupervised may accidentally ingest inappropriate items.
- Insufficient mental stimulation: Bored dogs may try to entertain themselves by chewing on or ingesting non-food items.
- Inadequate chew toys: Providing appropriate chew toys can help prevent dogs from seeking out other objects to chew on.
What Are the Risks and Complications of Foreign Body Ingestion?
Foreign body ingestion can lead to serious risks and complications if not treated promptly. Ingested items may cause irritation or blockage in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to abdominal pain, vomiting, changes in appetite, dehydration, intestinal perforation, and even organ failure.
The most common complication of dog foreign body ingestion is an obstruction which can be life-threatening if left untreated.
- Abrasions, tears, or perforation in the esophagus, stomach, or intestines
- Bacterial infection
- Peritonitis
- Damage to other organs
How Do I Help a Dog with Foreign Body Ingestion?
If you’re worried because your dog has eaten a non-food item, it’s essential to seek veterinary care immediately. Your veterinarian may perform a physical exam, X-rays, ultrasounds, or endoscopy to determine the item’s location and size.
Based on the findings, your veterinarian will recommend the best course of action. The medical treatment for foreign body ingestion can vary depending on a few factors, such as the size and type of object, but could include:
- Inducing vomiting: On many occasions, depending on the type of foreign body and the time it was ingested, your veterinarian may induce vomiting to help expel the foreign object.
- Monitoring: If the item is small and unlikely to cause complications, your veterinarian may suggest monitoring your dog to see if it passes the object naturally.
- Endoscopic removal: An endoscope may be used to remove objects lodged in your dog’s digestive tract.
- Surgery: In severe cases, emergency surgery may be necessary to remove the item and repair any damage caused.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can foreign body ingestion be prevented?
A: Yes and no. Providing your dog with appropriate toys and chew items, not leaving dangerous things accessible, as well as monitoring them closely, can help prevent foreign body ingestion. Although you can’t watch your dog 24/7, you can minimize the risk.
Q: Can foreign body ingestion occur in puppies?
A: Yes, puppies may be more prone to swallowing non-food items due to their curiosity and tendency to explore with their mouths.
Q: Is surgery always needed to remove a foreign body?
A: Not necessarily. Depending on the size and location of the item, your veterinarian may suggest monitoring your dog, inducing vomiting, or performing an endoscopic removal. Surgery is usually only necessary in severe cases.
Q: How long does it take a foreign body to pass through the intestines?
A: The amount of time it takes for a foreign body to pass through the intestinal tract will vary depending on its size and composition. It can range from a few days to several weeks. Surgery may sometimes be necessary if the object doesn’t pass naturally within this timeframe.
Q: Is foreign object ingestion always an emergency?
A: Yes, it’s important to seek veterinary care right away if you suspect your pup has eaten a foreign object. If left untreated, the object can cause serious health complications and even death in some cases. Early diagnosis and treatment will ensure the best possible outcome for your pet. Especially considering that, depending on the type of foreign body, your vet might be able to induce vomiting to eliminate the risk. Even if it’s a small object and your vet advises you to watch and see if it passes through your dog’s system, it’s still important to have a vet evaluate such a potentially dangerous situation. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
Conclusion
Foreign body ingestion is a serious condition that can cause significant health complications if left untreated. If you notice any signs of foreign body ingestion in your dog, it’s essential to contact your veterinarian immediately. By closely monitoring your dog’s behavior, providing them with appropriate toys and chew items, and ensuring they receive proper mental stimulation, you can help prevent foreign body ingestion from occurring.
- Related read: Why Is My Dog’s Tongue Hot?
Featured Image Credit: Freeograph, Shutterstock
