Intestinal Obstruction
 

 

 Obstruction of the small or large intestine is caused most commonly by a foreign body that the dog has swallowed. A wide variety of foreign bodies can be ingested by dog: bones, corncobs, stones, fruit stones, tampons, fabrics, food wrappings, chew toys, children's toys, bottle caps, plant material, hair, fishhooks and sewing needles. Small diameter and smooth foreign bodies usually pass through uneventfully; large ones will usually lodge in the small intestine and cause obstruction. Some sharp foreign bodies will pass through while others penetrate the intestinal wall and lead to infection.

Symptoms
Vomiting and a poor appetite are generally the initial signs although some dogs will have diarrhea. The dog will usually have a tense abdomen with few or no bowel movements.

Treatment
Intestinal obstructions are often identified on physical examination of the abdomen. The diagnosis is made by X rays of the gastrointestinal tract. Often a contrast medium such as barium will be required for the X-ray study. Occasionally, an obstruction will be difficult to visualize even with good X-ray films. Surgery is usually required for the management of intestinal obstruction.

Prevention is the best treatment. If you know that you have an "All Consuming" dog, do not let him have access to anything he may swallow. There have been reports of dogs eating Booda rope toys, jock straps, rubber toys -- just about anything they can. Exercise caution -- it could save your dog's life and your pocketbook!

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This information is made available to you by the efforts of YGRR volunteers. To join them in helping our homeless Goldens, please consider becoming a member or making a donation.

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Yankee Golden Retriever Rescue, Inc. is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization founded in 1985.
Rescue and Adoption services for Golden Retrievers from the six New England states.
Address: P.O. Box 808, Hudson, MA 01749-0808
Hotline: 978-568-9700

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