It's scary when your dog swallows something they shouldn't. This is especially true with plastic. Whether it's a small piece or a bigger foreign object, knowing what to do quickly really matters. This article will show you the steps to take if your dog swallowed a foreign object. We'll tell you when to call your vet right away. And we'll help you learn how to prevent your dog from eating unsafe things.
My Dog Ate Plastic – What Should I Do?
If you see your dog ate plastic, it's normal to feel panicked. But staying calm and acting fast is key. Here's what to do:
Figure out how much plastic your dog ate: Was it a small piece of plastic? Or was it much plastic? Do you know the type of plastic? This info helps your veterinarian.
Look for choking signs: Is your dog choking? Are they showing signs of distress or breathing issues? This means it's an emergency.
Check your dog's posture for problems: Any signs of discomfort or pain could mean something's wrong inside.
Watch for breathing problems: Fast or hard breathing can be a sign that your dog has swallowed something blocking their air.
Remove any extra plastic from your dog's mouth: If there are pieces still in their mouth, gently take them out. This stops them from ingesting more.
Go to a VEG emergency vet hospital, open 24 hours: Don't wait. Take your dog to the vet right away. This is often a medical emergency.
CALL VEG RIGHT AWAY IF YOUR DOG ATE PLASTIC
Calling your vet right away is the most important thing you can do. If your dog swallowed a plastic bag, a sharp piece of plastic, or any other foreign body, getting early vet care can stop big problems like an intestinal blockage.
My Dog Ate Plastic, What Do I Do? Call Now & Speak With a Vet
Call now & speak with a vet. This is always your best bet. Even if the piece of plastic is small enough, it might not pass without problems. Your vet can give you immediate advice.
What Will the Vet Do If My Dog Ate Plastic?
When you arrive at the veterinary clinic, your veterinarian will check your dog's health. They might:
Do a Physical Exam: To look for signs of distress or pain.
Take X-rays: To find the foreign object and see its size. An X-ray is vital to check for an obstruction or if the object is stuck.Induce Vomiting: Sometimes, if the plastic object isn't sharp and your dog ingested it recently, the vet might make your dog vomit to remove the plastic. But do not induce vomiting at home without vet guidance. It's not recommended if the object is sharp or large, as it could hurt your esophagus or intestine.
Monitor: If small objects seem likely to pass without issues and your dog shows no signs of being sick, the vet might tell you to monitor your dog closely at home.
Perform Surgery: For serious intestinal blockage or sharp foreign objects, surgery might be needed to remove the object.
Why Do Dogs Swallow Foreign Objects?
Dogs are naturally curious. They often explore with their mouths. Reasons why a dog eats plastic or swallows foreign objects include:Boredom and Anxiety: A dog may chew on things they shouldn't if they're bored or stressed.
Exploring: Especially puppies trying to understand their world.
Missing Nutrients: Sometimes a dog could eat plastic if their diet is missing something important.
Smell: Food bits on plastic bags or dishes can attract dogs.
How to Prevent Your Dog From Swallowing a Foreign Object
Preventing your dog from eating dangerous items is super important for their health. Here are some tips:
Keep Your Home Clean: Make sure your home is free of small pieces of plastic items, broken chew toys, or any common swallowed objects.
Offer Good Chew Toys: Give your dog safe, tough dog toys meant for chewing. Rotate them to keep your dog's interest high.Supervise: Monitor your dog closely, especially puppies, when they play.
Train Them: Teach your dog commands like "leave it" or "drop it."
Store Things Safely: Keep household cleaners and trash where your dog can't reach them.
Secure Trash Cans: Make sure your trash can is closed tightly to stop your dog from eating plastic.
Common Symptoms in Dogs Who Swallowed Foreign Objects
If your dog has swallowed something, you might notice different symptoms of swallowed objects. These can range from mild to very serious. Common symptoms in dogs who swallowed foreign objects include:
Vomiting (especially severe vomiting or throwing up a lot)
DiarrheaNot wanting to eat (loss of appetite)
Laziness or less energy (lethargy)
Belly pain or swelling (abdominal pain)
Signs of discomfort or pain when you touch their belly
Constipation
Trying to vomit but nothing comes out (retching)
Changes in poop (like no feces, or feces with a piece of plastic)
If you suspect your dog has ingested a foreign object, it's key to monitor your dog closely and contact your vet.
Treatment for Dogs Who Swallowed Foreign Objects: Home Remedies and First Aid
You might look for home remedies, but it's vital to know that swallowed objects can be a medical emergency. Do not make your dog vomit unless your vet tells you to. This is true especially if the plastic is sharp, as it could hurt their digestive system even more.
If your dog swallowed a squeaky toy, it might sometimes pass without problems. But if you hear the squeaker inside, it could mean it's stuck.
How To Find Out If Your Dog Has Swallowed A Squeaky Toy? Watch for the symptoms listed above.Dogs Swallowing Toys: Key Takeaways - Always be safe and talk to a veterinarian immediately.
WARNING ABOUT SWALLOWED STRING! String or any long, thin material can severely damage your bowel or intestine. It can cause a blockage or even cut through tissues. This needs immediate veterinary attention.
What Happens If My Dog Ate Plastic That Is Sharp?
If your dog ate plastic that is sharp, it greatly increases the risk of:
Hurting the esophagus, stomach, or intestines.
A blockage or intestinal blockage.A perforation (a hole). This lets stomach contents leak into the belly, which is life-threatening.
For example, if your dog swallowed a 1 1/4" x 1/2" sharp piece of plastic that broke off a swimming pool navigator device, or if my dog ate a plastic dish and the pieces I found are sharp, can he have serious problems develop? Yes, absolutely. These situations need immediate veterinary care.
What Happens When a Dog Eats a Plastic Bag?
A plastic bag might not be sharp, but it can still cause a blockage in the digestive tract. This is especially true in the small intestine. It could even make them choke if it gets caught in their throat. While some small pieces may pass without problems, it's always best to contact your veterinarian for advice.
How Can I Stop My Dog From Eating Plastic Again?
After your dog ingested a foreign object, it's key to stop it from happening again:
Secure Storage: Put all plastic items, dog toys, wires, and anything your dog could chew or swallow out of their reach.
Consistent Training: Keep practicing "leave it" and "drop it" commands.Constant Monitoring: Especially when you give them new chew toys.
Frequently Asked Questions on Dogs Swallowing Toys / Foreign Objects
So, what should I do if my dog ate plastic? Contact your veterinarian or an emergency vet as soon as possible. The outcome depends on the size and type of plastic, and your dog’s symptoms.
What would happen if my dog ate plastic? It may pass without problems. Or it could cause an upset stomach, lead to an intestinal blockage, or even a perforation in the bowel.
Can my dog pass the plastic? Many small objects may pass without problems. But never rely on this, especially with sharp edges or large objects. Always seek help from a vet.
What if my dog passed a sharp piece of plastic yesterday, after 3 days diarrhea & 2 x vomit? Even if it passed, the diarrhea and vomit mean there might be internal irritation or damage. Seek veterinary advice right away to check for lasting issues or harm to the intestinal lining.
How to Induce Vomiting in Dogs to Avoid Surgery? This should only be done with direct veterinary supervision. Trying to make your dog vomit at home without a vet's help can be dangerous.
My Mixed Breed Dog 1.5 Years Old: Ingested Plastic Toy Pieces. Any ingested plastic is a worry. Contact an Emergency Veterinarian to check the risk of intestinal blockage and other issues. They will decide the best plan for your dog's health.
Key Takeaways: Right Action Saves Lives
When a dog ate a plastic or swallowed a foreign object, your quick and smart action is most important. Never hesitate to call your vet or go to an emergency veterinary clinic. Preventing your dog from swallowing dangerous items is key. But if an accident happens, knowing the right steps to take gives you power. Monitor your dog closely for any signs that your dog has ingested something they shouldn't. And remember, seeing a veterinarian immediately is always the safest choice.