A bowel obstruction is a very serious condition that may occur in dogs as well as humans. Dogs that suffer from this condition may have symptoms of intestinal gas and bloating as well as vomiting.
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Identification
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A bowel obstruction in dogs can be caused by foreign bodies, tumors, hernias and severe infestations of roundworms. Simple bowel obstructions do not cause the blood flow to the intestines to be impeded. A strangulated obstruction is a condition in which the flow of blood to the intestines may actually be completely cut off. This is a serious condition with a high mortality rate. The Merck Veterinary Manual states that this is a condition often seen in young dogs, because they tend to eat foreign objects such as pantyhose or plastic toys.
Effects
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Intestinal gas and abdominal distention often develop with a small bowel obstruction. According to The Merck Veterinary Manual, gaseous bowel distention usually develops within the first 12 to 35 hours after the obstruction has occurred. If no medical help is sought, the dog will die within three to four days.
Symptoms
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The symptoms associated with a bowel obstruction in dogs may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, intestinal gas, abdominal distention, fever, below normal body temperature, dehydration and shock. Dogs with a complete bowel obstruction may not be able to pass gas or stool.
Diagnosis
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In order to determine if the dog is suffering from a bowel obstruction, the veterinarian or will perform a complete physical examination. The veterinarian will palpate (feel) the dog's abdomen in order to determine if any tumor is present or if fluid is present. A dietary history is also important because dogs that have a history of eating foreign objects often continue to do so even if it makes them uncomfortable or sick. Diagnostic tests such as X-rays or an endoscopy may help to identify an obstruction or the foreign object that may be causing the problem. If the veterinarian is unable to identify the source of the problem, an exploratory surgery may be performed.
Treatment
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Dogs that suffer from a bowel obstruction and intestinal gas may benefit from IV fluids, and surgery may be performed to remove the foreign object and repair the intestines. The mortality rate for dogs that undergo this type of surgery is about 12 percent, according to Merck, and it is the same for the large or small intestine. Dogs that already have signs of peritonitis (infection) have an increased mortality rate of 31 percent.
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