Avoiding accidental ingestions, obstructions, and their treatment in pups

We would like to take this opportunity to update carers of GDV dogs that we have noted a recent increase in ingestions across our colony. Below we have provided some further support and guidance to help reduce these occurrences and ensure the safety of all our dogs.

What is ingestion?

Ingestion is when a dog swallows a foreign object, or something that is not intended to be eaten as part of their regular diet. For example, chewed bedding and toys, stolen objects such as batteries from toys, parts of shoes, balls, clothing, tea towels, socks, compost (corn cobs and similar), shaslik sticks, and plastic bags (which have had food in them) just to name a few.  These items are not designed to be eaten or pass through the digestive tract and can cause obstructions.

What is an obstruction

An obstruction in a dog typically refers to a blockage in the gastrointestinal tract, which can prevent the passage of food and waste to leave the body successfully. Items that cannot be passed will require surgery to remove the blockage. Symptoms of an obstruction can include vomiting, lethargy, lack of appetite, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel movements. If you suspect your dog has an obstruction, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately, as it can be a serious and potentially life-threatening condition.

How can we avoid obstructions?

• Continue to puppy-proof your home daily with a visual check:
  • removing tempting objects such as socks and shoes
  • prevent access to certain rooms, laundry, bathrooms and bedrooms unless puppy-proofed
  • use barriers, baby gates, playpens and crates.
• Clear kitchen benches if leaving pup unsupervised for any amount of time and don’t leave food items on the bench. If required, put pup in playpen or crate (or alternate puppy-proofed area).
• Place tempting items out of reach like, remote controls, kids’ toys and medication etc.
• Ensure pups toys are safe, soft toys and rope toys should be made specifically for dogs of medium to large breed, we suggest these are only with the dog under supervision.
• Only leave safe toys with the pup unsupervised, such as Kong and Nylabone products. If these are worn or damaged by sun or excessive chewing, they may not be safe. A Nylabone should not become smaller than the palm of your hand. Nylabones the size of your palm or smaller it will need replacing. If you need the standard Kong you were supplied to be replaced due to damage or wear and tear, please contact your Advisor and we will provide a replacement and the old damaged one where pieces may come of can be disposed of.

We know these incidents are accidents and that Labradors are known for their hardy ability to chew. However, if we continue to prepare and prevent the best we can keep them healthy and safe. Together, we can keep our pups safe, happy and healthy as they progress through their training and work towards their careers.

If you are concerned about the dog in your care’s health, you can call VetChat after hours on: 03 4427 9847. Appointments at the GDV clinic are available on a Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday by calling 1800 804 805.

You can also speak to your Advisor about alternate vet clinics if the GDV clinic is unavailable.