Pet owners are being encouraged to familiarise themselves with the warning signs of a potentially life-threatening blockage after a local dog required emergency surgery to save his life.
Doug, a two-year-old Labradoodle–Tibetan Terrier cross, was rushed to New Era Veterinary Hospital after his owners noticed sudden changes in his behaviour that suggested something was seriously wrong.
His owners, Sabina Danzer and Michael Le Moine, said Doug became restless and appeared to be in pain. He was stretching forward with his front legs, whimpering, and rolling around on the floor – subtle but important warning signs that prompted them to seek urgent veterinary help.
At the veterinary hospital, staff discovered an object lodged in Doug’s digestive system.
Emergency surgery revealed he had swallowed part of a rubber ball, which had caused a dangerous blockage in his small intestine.
Vet Jack Varley, who performed the emergency surgery, said Doug’s case highlights how quickly these situations can escalate – and how vital it is for owners to recognise the symptoms early.
“Doug is very lucky that his owners reacted quickly and brought him to us as soon as they noticed something was wrong with their pet,” he said.
“It meant we could remove the object before it caused any serious damage to his intestines by preventing food material travelling through the digestive system.
“If we hadn’t operated, the intestinal tissue would have started to become necrotic, potentially leading to sepsis, and it would have been very painful for the dog.
“It’s also a good idea to be aware of the signs of a blockage, which include being lethargic, vomiting, losing their appetite and signs of being in pain, similar to the signs shown by Doug.”
Thanks to the quick response, Doug made a full recovery after surgery and a short stay at the veterinary hospital.
Owners Sabina and Michael were able to welcome Doug home after a two-night stay at the veterinary hospital, where he was constantly monitored.
Sabina said: “It was really scary when Doug was unwell, but Jack and the team at New Era Veterinary Hospital gave him the best possible care.
“Within half an hour of us calling the hospital, Doug was being seen, and they gave us regular updates which helped reassure us.
“It is very strange because we don’t have any objects like that at home and I usually walk him on a lead.
“He does like investigating hedges and bushes, where he might have found the ball, but I don’t recall seeing him picking up or eating anything.
“It is a bit of a mystery, but I would urge other owners to keep a close eye on their pets when they’re out on walks, because I wouldn’t want another dog to go through this.”