* Choking Hazard: The ball could get lodged in the dog's throat, causing choking or breathing difficulties.
* Gastrointestinal Obstruction: Even if swallowed, the ball could get stuck in the stomach or intestines, leading to a life-threatening blockage.
* Toxicity: Some stress balls contain chemicals that could be harmful to your dog if ingested.
Symptoms of ingestion:
* Gagging or choking
* Vomiting
* Loss of appetite
* Abdominal pain
* Difficulty defecating
What to do if your dog eats a stress ball:
1. Remove any remaining pieces of the stress ball.
2. Call your veterinarian immediately. They may recommend inducing vomiting, depending on the situation.
3. Monitor your dog for any symptoms of distress.
Prevention:
* Keep stress balls out of reach of your dog.
* Choose toys that are specifically designed for dogs.
* Supervise your dog when playing with toys.
* Consider using alternative stress-relieving methods that are safe for dogs.
Remember: It's better to be safe than sorry. Never let your dog play with objects that could be dangerous.