Some dogs simply eat inanimate objects that aren't meant to be eaten, which can cause blockage. Blockage, also known as bowel obstruction, occurs when a foreign object makes its way through the gastrointestinal tract but becomes stuck. Smaller items may make it through the stomach but become lodged in the small intestines. Meanwhile, larger objects may never make it past the stomach. Dogs who are known to or suspected to have eaten an inanimate object should be brought to a veterinarian immediately, as blockage can lead to death if left untreated.
-
Vomiting
-
If the blockage has occurred in the stomach, foods and fluids will build up. As this happens, vomiting is likely to occur.
Dehydration
-
Some dogs may become dehydrated while suffering from blockage. Dehydration requires immediate veterinary attention because if left untreated, it can result in death for the affected canine.
Behavioral Changes
-
Many owners will notice that their dog will undergo various behavioral changes. This can include a general appearance of being ill, lethargy or sluggishness.
Weight Loss
-
If the blockage has become severe enough, some dogs will begin to lose weight. Weight loss can be mild to severe and some owners may not necessarily notice that their dog has lost weight.
Anorexia
-
Blockage can cause many dogs to lose their appetite and subsequently seem to be anorexic. Usually with canine blockage, this loss of appetite appears to be sudden and unusual, signaling to the owner that there is an issue.
Diarrhea
-
In some cases, canine blockage can cause diarrhea. Diarrhea also adds to any dehydration issues, so it is important that dogs with this symptom see a veterinarian for prompt treatment.
Bowel Movements
-
Aside from diarrhea, there is also likely to be abnormal or a change in bowel movements. This could mean that the amount is smaller or larger than normal, it is the wrong consistency or the wrong color. For some dogs, this could mean that there are no bowel movements whatsoever.
Toxemia
-
Some dogs may suffer from toxemia, which is a condition where toxins begin to build up in the blood. This condition may clear up on it's own following treatment for intestinal blockage; however, in some cases it may require its own separate treatment.
Drooling
-
Canine blockage may cause drooling, which is often excessive, in some dogs.
Fever
-
Adult dogs in good health should have a temperature between 100 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit, so anything above is considered a fever. Certain objects that cause bowel obstruction may also cause an infection, which can lead to a fever in the affected dog.
-