I’m seriously freaking out right now and could use some advice. My dog, Max, just ate about 3 pounds of gravel from our backyard (yes, gravel!) and I’m not sure what’s going on with him. This happened a couple of hours ago, and so far, he’s just been lying around the house and hasn’t touched his food since. He’s usually a ball of energy, especially in the evenings, but tonight he’s just been so lethargic. I tried calling the vet, but they’re closed until the morning, and I’m getting pretty anxious here. Has anyone else been through something like this? Should I be rushing him to an emergency clinic, or could this possibly pass on its own? Any advice would be much appreciated!
Thanks for reaching out—sounds like you have quite the adventurous pup! Eating gravel can certainly be alarming, and it’s understandable why you're concerned.
Dogs sometimes eat non-food items due to curiosity, nutritional deficiencies, or a condition known as pica. While gravel might seem harmless, the real issue is that it can cause blockages in your dog's digestive tract. Depending on the size and amount of gravel, this can lead to serious complications.
For now, observe your dog closely. Look out for signs of distress like vomiting, loss of appetite, lethargy, or difficulty pooping. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to get in touch with a vet right away as they could indicate a blockage.
While at home, ensure your dog has ample fresh water, as drinking more could help move the gravel along naturally. Also, monitor their bowel movements to see if the gravel is passing through. It's a good idea to prevent further ingestion by supervising outdoor activities and providing ample chew toys and engaging activities to distract them.
Given the amount of gravel consumed, booking a video consult with Dial A Vet is a wise next step. It’ll give you personalized advice tailored to your dog's situation and ensure they receive the right care.
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