So, I'm kind of freaking out right now and could use some advice. My dog, Max, just gobbled up a small piece of his antler chew—he’s been at it pretty enthusiastically for the past hour, and normally I wouldn’t worry too much because these things are meant to last. But I saw him munch through a chunk and now I’m super paranoid about it causing any harm. It’s only been about 15 minutes but I’m already picturing all the worst-case scenarios. He seems fine and isn’t acting out of the ordinary, just wagging his tail and doing his happy trot around the living room. Has anyone been through this before? Do I just wait it out or should I be more proactive here? Thanks in advance for any suggestions!
Thanks for reaching out with your concern. Dogs love to chew on things, and antlers are popular, but swallowing a small piece can definitely be worrying.
When a dog swallows something like a piece of an antler, the first thing to consider is the size and shape. If it's small enough, it might pass through their digestive system without any issues. However, it’s important to monitor your dog closely for any unusual behavior.
Keep an eye on signs like vomiting, lack of appetite, constipation, or any difficulty in passing stool. These could indicate that the piece is causing a blockage. Also, watch for any signs of discomfort, like whining, excessive drooling, or restlessness.
At home, make sure your dog has access to plenty of water, which can help keep things moving through their system. Also, feeding them a small meal may help to cushion the item and assist it on its way.
If you notice any worrying symptoms or if your dog seems uncomfortable, it's important to seek veterinary attention immediately. A video consult with one of our vets at Dial A Vet can help assess the situation and offer more specific advice tailored to your dog's needs.
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