Dog Swallows 17 Socks and Plastic Fragments
Those who are lucky enough to own a dog know well the havoc they can create in the house. Socks, shoes, slippers, remote controls, and toys are all fair game for their playful (or mischievous) mouths. While it’s a natural inclination for dogs to explore their surroundings with their mouths, in some cases, it can lead to serious consequences.
This was the case for a seven and a half year old American Pitbull named Era, who recently found herself in the operating room at a veterinary clinic in Bolzano. Her owner had noticed a concerning change in her behavior, leading them to discover a shocking discovery - Era had swallowed 17 socks and several fragments of plastic from toys.
The situation was critical, with Era facing a severe gastrointestinal obstruction caused by the multiple foreign bodies in her stomach. Dr. Federica Bovenga and Dr. Clara Bordas, skilled veterinarians, collaborated to perform an emergency gastrotomy to remove everything from Era’s stomach. Thankfully, she responded positively to the intervention and was much better by the next morning.
It’s not always easy to detect when a dog has ingested something dangerous. The culprit can be hidden from the owner’s sight, especially if the dog is alone at home. Sometimes, the behavior can be linked to underlying anxiety, jealousy, boredom, or even gastrointestinal problems. In some cases, chronic inflammation can lead to a condition called pica, which can be a symptom of illness or behavioral issues.
When you suspect your dog has ingested something harmful, it’s crucial to seek veterinary attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing the situation effectively.