Mary Allen
Swallowed objects can be fatal to dogs. dr Reinhard Hirt, a specialist in gastroenterology at the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna, explains the dangers and how to react correctly if the dog swallows something.
Many dogs are only too happy to devour leftovers, chew or swallow whole household items. However, if swallowed, foreign bodies can be life-threatening. Reinhard Hirt is a specialist in gastroenterology at the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna and deals with patients daily who have had problems because of their greed.
Watch Carefully
“If your dog eats something on the street, you should always watch it closely,” warns the veterinarian. “Especially in cities, it can be dangerous objects or poison .” It is advisable to always check what the four-legged friend could have eaten and take the remains with you to the vet. “He can medicate the dog to vomit.”
Emergency: Intestinal Obstruction
Solid foreign objects such as toys, stones, or chestnuts are particularly dangerous. X-rays or ultrasounds must be used to determine exactly where the objects are. Round things, items of clothing, and toiletries are usually removed endoscopically, and sharp-edged objects are usually surgically removed. If the dog no longer eats, vomits, has bloody diarrhea, or no longer defecates, you have to go to the vet immediately – this can be due to internal injuries or an intestinal blockage.