Sometimes, no matter what we do, our dogs can gain access to something like a wish bone. It might be they grab it off the counter or table when we’re not looking. Or many dogs love to dig through the trash looking for that yummy treat that’s waiting there!
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Has your fur baby eaten a wish bone? Then the first thing you need to do is not panic. You need to stay calm so you can help your dog. Next, make sure your dog’s not choking. Any dog can choke on bones, from small dogs to large dogs. So, make sure your fur baby isn’t chocking and that his airways are open and he’s breathing normally.
Call the Vet Right Away
The next thing to do is call your vet immediately. You’ll need to let them know your canine companion ate a wish bone. Tell the vet if the bone(s) was raw or cooked, as they will need this information. Then you’ll need to let them know about how long ago your dog ate the bone(s).
As long as your dog isn’t chocking and his airways are clear, then the vet may ask you to observe your dog. In this case, you’ll need to watch your canine companion for the next couple of days. The vet will probably ask you to watch and see if the wish bone comes passes out through your dog’s pooh.
In an effort to help the bone pass, the vet may advise you to feed your dog white bread, canned pumpkin (not the kind used to make pumpkin pies). The reason is these foods can wrap around bones that may be brittle (if they were cooked), cushioning the bone to keep it from puncturing the intestines. The bread and pumpkin can also make it easier for the bones to pass through.
While this is gross, you’ll need to be vigilant. If the bones come through, then more than likely your fur baby will be OK.
Because cooked bones are brittle and sharp, you’ll also probably be advised to watch for bloody stools. The reason is that this could be an indication that the intestine or organs have been punctured and your dog is experiencing internal bleeding.
In addition, you’ll need to watch for other signs that indicate a blocked intestine, which can include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Dehydration
- Bloating
- Abdominal pain
- Hunching/whining (from pain)
At the first sign of any of these symptoms, you’ll need to get your dog to the vet. This could be a life-threatening emergency, and your dog may require surgery.
The good news is that in most cases the bone will pass, but always call the vet if you know your dog’s eaten a wish bone or other bones. With quick treatment, your fur baby has a great prognosis for a long and happy life!
Connect with a verified veterinarian in minutes. No waiting for appointments or office hours. No high fees. No need to worry about your furry family member.
Kim
Kim is a talented author, who loves animals especially dogs. She engaged in writing books and articles relating to animals a decade ago. Kim resides in Chicago with her husband and son. The family is the proud owner of a dog and a parrot (Jack and Lily). Kim wanted more than these two pets, but her husband put his foot down... She often visits elementary schools to talk to the kids about what she learned about pets and how they could learn from them.
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