My Dog Ate an Ashtray What Should I Do?

Some dogs will eat almost anything from socks, rocks, and underwear! Has your dog eaten an ashtray? Then you’ve come to the right place.

We’ll take a look at the problem of dogs eating foreign objects and what you need to do next if your dog has ingested an ashtray. Let’s get started!

Dogs Sometimes Eat Foreign Objects

This is a huge problem with some dogs. They quite literally eat just about everything. Eyeglasses? Check. Asthma inhaler? Check, and so the list goes on. It’s incomprehensible to us as to why a dog would eat a non-food item such as these and other things.

These non-food items that some dogs love to eat are called “foreign objects.” Veterinarians frequently treat dogs who have eaten foreign objects. This is a habit that can be dangerous, as well as expensive. It can also lead to death.

Danger from Eating Foreign Objects

Small foreign objects, depending on what they are, can pass through the entire digestive tract without incidence. They usually come out in the dog’s poop.

However, items that are larger can cause choking if they become stuck in the esophagus. They can also cause problems if they become stuck in the stomach or in the intestines. One problem is these items can cause an obstruction in the intestines, which can lead to death if not treated.

What You Need to Do Now

If your dog has swallowed an ashtray, then it’s time to call the vet. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. An ashtray usually won’t be able to come out on its own. This is a life-threatening medical emergency.

Note: do not induce vomiting. The ashtray could become lodged in your dog’s airways and cause him to choke.

Treatment for Dog Swallowing an Ashtray

When you reach the vet’s, they will perform a complete physical of your dog. The vet will order lab work is done, as well as x-rays (or other imaging tests). The x-rays will show the vet exactly where the ashtray is located in your dog’s digestive tract.

If the ashtray is still in your dog’s stomach, the vet may try to remove it via an endoscopic procedure. Your dog will be sedated, and the vet may be able to get the ashtray out. However, if not, then your dog will require emergency surgery.

The prognosis for an intestinal blockage is excellent if the dog receives prompt medical treatment. In that case, depending on your dog’s overall health and age, he should make a full recovery.