What to do if a dog swallows a bone? - briefly
If your dog swallows a bone, remain calm and monitor their behavior closely for signs of distress or discomfort. Contact your veterinarian immediately for advice tailored to your pet's specific situation.
What to do if a dog swallows a bone? - in detail
If your dog has swallowed a bone, it's important to remain calm and take immediate action to ensure their safety. Here are the steps you should follow:
-
Observe Your Dog: Closely monitor your dog for any signs of discomfort or distress. If the bone is small enough, it might pass through the digestive system without causing any issues. However, if your dog starts vomiting, has difficulty swallowing, or shows signs of abdominal pain, immediate veterinary care is necessary.
-
Do Not Induce Vomiting: Unless specifically instructed by a veterinarian, do not try to induce vomiting. Bones can cause severe damage on their way back up, including tearing the esophagus or causing obstructions that require surgical removal.
-
Withhold Food and Water: To prevent further complications, withhold food and water from your dog until you have consulted a veterinarian. This will help reduce any additional stress on the digestive system.
-
Contact Your Veterinarian: Immediately contact your veterinarian for advice. Provide them with as much information as possible, including the size and type of bone, how long ago it was swallowed, and any symptoms your dog is exhibiting. The vet will likely recommend a visit to the clinic.
-
Visit the Veterinarian: Your veterinarian will perform a thorough examination and may use diagnostic tools such as X-rays to determine the location of the bone. Depending on its size, shape, and position within the digestive tract, different courses of action might be taken:
- Small Bones: If the bone is small enough, it might pass naturally through the system without intervention. However, your vet will likely recommend monitoring and possibly a laxative to help move things along.
- Larger or Sharp Bones: Larger bones, especially those with sharp edges, can cause serious damage as they move through the digestive tract. Your veterinarian might recommend endoscopy to remove the bone if it is still in the stomach or esophagus. For bones that have moved into the intestines, surgery may be necessary to prevent perforation or blockage.
-
Follow-Up Care: After any procedure, your vet will provide you with detailed instructions for follow-up care. This might include a special diet, medication to manage pain or inflammation, and regular check-ups to ensure that the bone has passed safely or that the surgical site is healing properly.
-
Prevent Future Incidents: To prevent your dog from swallowing bones in the future, ensure that all food containing bones is kept well out of reach. Consider feeding your dog a balanced diet specifically formulated for dogs to reduce the temptation to scavenge for human food or table scraps.
By following these steps, you can help ensure the best possible outcome for your dog if they swallow a bone. Always prioritize their safety and well-being by seeking professional veterinary advice promptly.