How Can I Help My Dog Pass an Object? Vet-Approved Methods That Actually Work

Oh no! Your furry best friend just ate something they shouldn’t have. We’ve all been there – you turn your back for one second, and suddenly Fido is chomping down on who-knows-what. As a dog parent myself, I know that panic-inducing feeling when you realize your pup has swallowed something suspicious.

First things first: take a deep breath. Many objects can pass through your dog’s digestive system without complications. I’m going to share some effective methods that can help your dog safely pass an object, based on veterinary advice and my own experiences dealing with my mischievous retriever mix who thinks everything is a snack.

When to Try Home Remedies vs. When to Rush to the Vet

Before we dive into solutions, let’s figure out if this is a situation you can handle at home or if you need professional help ASAP.

Seek immediate veterinary care if:

• Your dog is vomiting repeatedly
• They appear weak or lethargic
• Your dog shows signs of pain (especially abdominal pain)
• They have diarrhea that won’t stop
• Your dog stops eating or drinking
• You notice bloating in their belly
• Your dog is trying to poop but nothing comes out
• You know they swallowed something sharp or toxic
• The object is large (like a toy or sock)

You might try home remedies if:

• The object is small and smooth
• Your dog is acting normal (eating, drinking, playing)
• They’re having normal bowel movements
• The object isn’t sharp or potentially toxic
• You’re able to monitor them closely

Remember when in doubt call your vet! It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to our fur babies.

Home Remedies to Help Your Dog Pass an Object

If your vet has advised you that it’s safe to monitor your dog at home here are some methods that may help them pass the object naturally

1. Pumpkin Power

Canned pumpkin (NOT pumpkin pie filling) is a miracle worker for doggy digestive issues. It’s high in fiber, which can help bulk up your dog’s stool and push that object along.

How to use it Add 1-4 tablespoons of plain canned pumpkin to your dog’s food, depending on their size. Small dogs need less, big dogs need more

I tried this when my dog Baxter swallowed a small rubber piece from his toy, and it worked like a charm! Within 24 hours, that piece was out, and I was one relieved dog mom.

2. Olive Oil

A little olive oil can help lubricate your dog’s digestive tract, making it easier for objects to slide through.

How to use it: Mix 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of olive oil into your dog’s food. Don’t go overboard – too much can cause diarrhea, which is the last thing you need right now!

3. Feed a Bulky Meal

Feeding your dog a meal with added bulk can help pad around any sharp edges and assist in moving the object through the digestive tract.

How to use it: Add cooked, plain white rice or cooked, plain sweet potato to your dog’s regular food. Some vets also recommend asparagus for its fibrous properties.

4. Keep Them Hydrated

Making sure your dog drinks plenty of water is crucial for helping them pass objects. Water keeps everything moving through the digestive system.

How to use it: Make fresh water available at all times. If your dog isn’t big on drinking, try adding a little low-sodium chicken broth to their water to make it more appealing.

5. Increase Physical Activity

Gentle exercise can stimulate your dog’s digestive system and help move things along.

How to use it: Take your dog for more frequent walks, but keep them gentle. Avoid rough play or intense exercise that might cause digestive upset.

Monitoring Your Dog

While waiting for your dog to pass the object, you’ll need to keep a close eye on them:

Watch Their Poop (Yep, It’s Gross But Necessary)

You’ll need to examine your dog’s poop to see if the object has passed. I know it’s not the most glamorous job, but it’s important!

I remember following my dog around with a flashlight during evening potty breaks, just to make sure I didn’t miss anything. The things we do for love, right?

Track Vital Signs

Monitor your dog’s breathing, heart rate, appetite, and general behavior. Any changes could indicate that the situation is becoming more serious.

Look for the Object

Check both your dog’s vomit and stool for the object. It might take several days to pass, so be patient and vigilant.

When Home Remedies Aren’t Working

If it’s been more than 24-48 hours and your dog hasn’t passed the object, or if they start showing ANY signs of distress, it’s time to head to the vet.

Your vet has several options for diagnosing and treating an obstruction:

Diagnostic Tools

• X-rays to locate the object
• Ultrasound to see if there’s a blockage
• Endoscopy (a camera down the throat) to view and possibly retrieve the object

Treatment Options

• Endoscopic removal (retrieving the object without surgery)
• Surgery to remove the object if it’s causing a blockage
• Fluid therapy to keep your dog hydrated
• Medications to manage pain and prevent infection

Real Talk: My Experience with Foreign Objects

Last summer, my Lab mix decided that a small rubber ducky was a tasty snack. I panicked at first, but my vet assured me that since he was acting normal and the object was relatively small, we could try home management.

I mixed some pumpkin in with his food, increased his walks, and basically became a poop detective for the next few days. Sure enough, on day three, there was the little yellow duck, looking worse for wear but successfully passed!

Not every story ends this way though. My neighbor’s Beagle swallowed a corn cob, tried to pass it at home for too long, and ended up needing emergency surgery. The delay made the situation much worse and recovery longer.

Prevention: The Best Medicine

Once your dog has successfully passed the object, you’ll want to prevent future incidents:

• Dog-proof your home: Keep small objects off the floor and out of reach.
• Supervise chew time: Don’t leave your dog alone with toys that can be torn apart and swallowed.
• Choose appropriate toys: Pick toys that are the right size for your dog and designed to be durable.
• Training commands: Teach “leave it” and “drop it” commands – they can be lifesavers!
• Address behavioral issues: If your dog regularly eats non-food items, talk to your vet about possible underlying issues like pica.

FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered

How long does it take for a dog to pass an object?

Most small objects will pass within 24-72 hours. However, this can vary depending on the size of the object and your dog’s digestive system.

Can I give my dog bread to help them pass an object?

Contrary to popular belief, bread isn’t recommended for helping dogs pass objects. Stick to vet-approved methods like pumpkin or olive oil instead.

What are the signs that my dog has a blockage?

Signs include repeated vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, straining to defecate without producing anything, and bloating.

Is it safe to induce vomiting in my dog?

Never induce vomiting unless directed by a veterinarian. It can be dangerous, especially if your dog swallowed something sharp or if too much time has passed.

What objects are most dangerous for dogs to swallow?

The most dangerous objects include sharp items (bones, sticks), expandable items (socks, toys), toxic materials, and string-like objects that can cause a “linear foreign body” obstruction.

Final Thoughts

Helping your dog pass an object safely requires a balance of patience, vigilance, and knowing when to seek professional help. While many objects will pass naturally with a little assistance from you, never hesitate to contact your vet if you’re concerned.

Remember that every dog is different, and what works for one might not work for another. Trust your instincts – you know your furry friend better than anyone!

Have you ever dealt with your dog swallowing something they shouldn’t? Share your experience in the comments below – your story might help another worried pet parent!

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Disclaimer: This article is based on veterinary advice and personal experience, but should not replace professional veterinary care. Always consult your veterinarian if you believe your dog has swallowed a foreign object.