Rocky just swallowed a ton of chicken bones from the trash while I stepped out for a minute. Should I be freaking out? Do I need to call a vet right away? Is this dangerous? I'm so worried, and I don’t know what to do!

Hey there! It's quite common for our furry friends to get into things they shouldn't, so you're definitely not alone. First off, take a deep breath — while swallowing chicken bones can be risky, it's not always a dire emergency. Let’s walk through this together.

Chicken bones can splinter and cause issues such as:

• Gastrointestinal blockage
• Piercing of the stomach or intestines
• Choking

Here's what to keep an eye out for:

• Vomiting or dry heaving
• Lethargy or unusual tiredness
• Bloody stools or diarrhea
• Coughing or signs of distress while swallowing

If Rocky is showing any of these symptoms, it's time to call a vet right away. If he seems okay, you'll want to monitor him closely for the next 24-48 hours. Here's what you can do at home:

• Ensure he has plenty of water to drink, which can help move things along smoothly through his system.
• Offer some bland food like boiled rice and chicken in small portions, but only if he's eating without any issues.
• Avoid inducing vomiting unless a vet recommends it, as it might cause more harm.

If at any point you feel unsure or if Rocky's symptoms get worse, definitely reach out to a vet. Better to be safe and get some peace of mind.

If you're unsure or your pet’s symptoms worsen, it's best to book a call with a vet on Dial A Vet for professional advice.