What are the symptoms of intestinal blockages in dogs?
How do you determine whether your dog has an intestinal obstruction? Unless you have seen your dog swallow a foreign object, symptoms of dog intestinal blockage are usually dismissed as an upset stomach. Symptoms include the following:
If you think your dog ingested something suspicious or they are exhibiting the symptoms listed below, call your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Treatment for intestinal blockages in dogs
Surgical or non-surgical treatment options are available for intestinal obstructions. Several factors influence this decision. These include location, the length of time the object has been stuck, and the objects size, shape, and structure. A veterinarian may be able to remove the foreign object using an endoscope in some instances. If this isnt possible, your vet will usually consult ultrasound or X-rays to learn the location (and nature) of the obstruction. Certain foreign objects can pass on their own with enough time. When it comes to an intestinal blockage timeline in dogs, though, time is critical. If the object does not pass on its own and your dog exhibits any of the above symptoms, get them treated quickly. If your vet determines that the foreign object is life-threatening, theyll order emergency surgery.
Dog intestinal blockage surgery is a major procedure that requires anesthesia. Following surgery, your dog will remain in the hospital for several days to recover. To perform the surgery, your vet makes an incision near the blockage site in your dogs abdomen and removes the object. The length of surgery varies depending on the extent of damage to the stomach or intestinal wall. Your dogs survival following intestinal obstruction surgery is contingent upon a few factors:
The physical exam and diagnostic tests performed before surgery will help determine how well your dog does after surgery. Naturally, the earlier surgery, the better.
Symptoms of Bowel Obstructions in Dogs
How do you know if your dog has a bowel obstruction? Signs of an intestinal blockage in dogs, or a bowel obstructions may include:
If you witnessed your dog eat a foreign object, you might be wondering how you can help your dog pass the obstruction, but you should not attempt this on your own, your dog needs veterinary care. Your vet will first perform a physical exam on your dog, paying special attention to the abdomen. They may also perform blood work to determine if the blockage is affecting your dog’s overall health. From there, your dog will be taken to the in-house diagnostic lab for X-rays and any other imaging techniques needed in order to try and see the foreign object. One such test is an endoscopy, a procedure that inserts a small tube with a tiny attached camera through your dog’s throat and into the stomach. Your dog would be sedated for this procedure.
How to Find an Obstruction in a Dog’s Intestine
Bowel obstruction or dog intestinal blockage is a frightening problem. It could happen if your dog gulps her raw bones or gets into the garbage, counter-surfs or chews up her toys. A dog bowel obstruction can be a real emergency.
So let’s look at dog intestinal blockage symptoms, timeline and how to help your dog pass the obstruction.