If your dog swallows something inappropriate, it could clog his digestive system. In some cases, you can help your dog return to his natural bowel movements. However, sometimes these obstructions must be treated by a veterinarian. As a dog owner, you will need to decide whether to help your dog deal with the obstruction yourself or to use the services of a doctor. With your help, most cases of dog obstruction can be treated without hurting the pet and with the help of a veterinarian. However, taking your dog to the vet as soon as possible will give him the best results.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Determining Whether You Will Provide Home Treatment
Step 1. Check for common signs of obstruction in dogs
If your dog is eating something he shouldn't, but other than that he looks healthy, then you can take care of him yourself at home. However, if your dog seems sick, it means he needs treatment as soon as possible. Some of the symptoms that indicate a dog needs immediate medical attention include:
- Throws up.
- Weak body.
- Diarrhea.
- Loss of appetite.
- Symptoms of pain.
- Dehydration
- Bloated
Step 2. Determine if the dog can clear the obstruction
If your dog eats something it shouldn't, sometimes it can pass through its intestinal system without any problems. However, there are some objects that cannot pass through a dog's digestive tract because they are too large, rough, or dangerous. It's a good idea to have your dog checked by a doctor; he or she can determine if your pet needs surgery.
- Objects such as scraps of crayon or paper usually pass through the dog's digestive tract without a problem.
- If your dog eats a rough or sharp object, such as glass, he should seek medical attention as soon as possible.
- You can't always tell what your dog is eating when it's having an obstruction. However, if you know it, you will be able to assess the situation more clearly.
Step 3. Consider additional risks
Complete obstruction isn't the only health risk in dogs. For example, objects that are eaten can pose a risk of poisoning and internal injury.
For example, if a dog eats string, it can cut through the intestines as the muscles in the stomach contract
Method 2 of 3: Providing Home Care
Step 1. Monitor the dog's vital signs
If you are going to allow your dog to defecate naturally, you will need to closely monitor his health and vital signs. Observe the dog's breathing, heart rate, appetite, bowel schedule, and general behavior. If any of these aspects change, it's a good idea to have your dog checked by a doctor immediately.
- A blocked digestive system can be a life-threatening condition. If you feel that your dog is not getting rid of the foreign object he swallowed and his condition is not improving, you should take him to the vet.
- If your dog is not eating due to constipation, vomiting, or lethargy, you should immediately take him to the vet.
Step 2. Watch for vomiting
If a dog eats something it shouldn't, it may vomit. Large objects can be left in the stomach for a long time and he will eventually get rid of them without any side effects on the animal's health.
Vomiting itself is a symptom of various diseases in pets. A dog that vomits is not necessarily an obstruction
Step 3. Look for clues that the object causing the obstruction has passed from the dog's digestive system
If you believe your dog swallowed something it shouldn't have, monitor the stool to make sure it's out of the dog's body. Look at the dog's poop every time he defecates to find any related objects.
Objects that the dog eats can stay in the dog's body for a long time or come out shortly afterward. The amount of time it takes to remove an object from the digestive tract can vary
Method 3 of 3: Getting Doctor's Care
Step 1. Take the dog to the vet
If your dog is acting unwell and you think he's swallowed something that's blocking his digestive system, it's best to see your vet. He or she will be able to perform an X-ray, ultrasound, or endoscopy to see if there is something blocking the dog's digestion.
- Endoscopy is a procedure that doctors perform by inserting a camera down a dog's esophagus into its digestive tract to look for obstructions.
- Through an endoscope, doctors can also remove small objects using an instrument connected to a camera.
Step 2. Discuss treatment options
If your dog is having an obstruction and is making him sick, take him to the vet immediately. Consult the treatment options available to you, usually endoscopic and/or traditional surgery
The vet will also need to give the dog fluids and medication to stabilize his digestive system before surgery
Step 3. Provide postoperative care
Dogs that have undergone surgery need special care at home. This treatment usually includes handling surgical incisions, providing a proper diet, and paying attention and affection to the pet.
Once your dog has recovered, try to prevent him from eating any foreign, undigested objects so that this problem doesn't recur
Warning
- This condition endangers the life of the dog. Your best option is to take him to the vet as soon as it's confirmed he's swallowed an inappropriate object, even if the dog doesn't appear sick yet. If something gets in the way of your dog's digestive tract, it could be deprived of blood and the consequences could be severe.
- Surgery to remove blockages in a dog's intestines can be very expensive. However, obstructions that a dog cannot get rid of naturally can be life-threatening. It's better if the dog's condition is assessed by a veterinarian and pays dearly than he is in pain and has the potential to die.
