What Are the Signs of Dog Intestinal Blockage, and How Is It Treated

Just like humans, dogs also encounter intestinal issues that seriously impact their lives. Sometimes, these issues are life-threatening, but they usually get better after proper treatment. 

To ensure effective care, veterinarians and pet parents should recognize the symptoms of canine intestinal blockage to highlight the condition better.

In this article, we will explore the; 

• Symptoms of dog intestinal blockage
• Common causes, 
• Possible treatments to cure the conditions
• Preventive measures
• The upcoming expo with the webinar to understand the topic in detail

What Causes Intestinal Blockage in Dogs?

A dog's intestinal blockage is frequently caused by foreign bodies—items the dog eats that cause an obstruction. Typical foreign items include bones, balls, toys, rocks, clothing (like socks), fruit pits, tampons, and linear objects.

However, dog digestive blockages can also be caused by intestinal tumors or masses (abnormal new growths of tissue), especially in senior dogs.  

Other possible causes of gastrointestinal blockages in dogs may include:

• Tumors
• Hernias
• Intestinal Strictures
• Parasitic Infections
• Fecal Impaction

Understanding these causes can help prevent or identify the problem early on.

Signs and Symptoms of Dog Intestinal Blockage

No disease can be diagnosed or detected if you don’t know the exact or similar signs or symptoms that appear after the dog has the intestinal blockage issue. 

Some of the common signs include:

• Vomiting

Vomiting is the most prominent sign and happens when the blockage is persistent and occurs after meals.

• Loss of Appetite

Dogs with intestinal blockage often refuse food.

• Lethargy

A dog may seem unusually tired and inactive.

• Abdominal Pain 

You may notice signs of discomfort, such as whining or restlessness.

• Dehydration

This can occur due to vomiting or lack of fluid intake.

• Diarrhea or Constipation 

The dog may experience diarrhea or be unable to pass stool.

If you observe any of these signs, contact a veterinarian immediately.

How to Know If Dog Has Intestinal Blockage?

To diagnose dog intestinal blockage, veterinarians will use various methods:

1. Physical Examination

• Non-invasive first step in diagnosis.
• The vet can feel for any bloating or discomfort.
• Detection if the dog has an abnormal pain response.
• Quickly identification of obvious signs of blockage.

2. X-rays or Ultrasound
   • Provides a clear view of the gastrointestinal tract.
   • Identifies foreign objects or tumors.
   • Determines the exact location of the blockage.
   • Fast and non-invasive imaging method.
3. Endoscopy
   • Inserts a small camera into the digestive tract.
   • Confirms and locates foreign objects.
   • Can sometimes remove small blockages.
   • Requires light sedation for the dog.
4. Blood Tests
   • Identifies infections or complications.
   • Measures levels of dehydration and electrolytes.
   • Assesses organ function.
   • Provides insight into the severity of the blockage.

If you are concerned about dog tick issues, explore our detailed blog on dog tick treatment and prevention. 

How to Clear Intestinal Blockage in Dogs?

Treatment for dog intestinal blockage depends on the severity and cause. 

Below are common methods used to treat the condition:

1. Medications
   • Antiemetics (e.g., Metoclopramide): Controls vomiting.
   • Laxatives (e.g., Lactulose): Helps with mild blockages.
   • Prokinetic agents (e.g., Cisapride): Stimulates intestinal movement.
   • Anti-inflammatory drugs: Reduces swelling in the intestines.
   • Always prescribed veterinary supplies and medications under veterinary supervision.
2. Endoscopic Removal - Effective Way to Treat Dog Intestinal Blockage
   • Minimally invasive, uses a flexible tube.
   • Ideal for stomach or upper intestinal blockages.
   • Reduces recovery time compared to surgery.
   • Requires sedation, not general anesthesia.
   • Prevents complications from more invasive procedures.
3. Surgery
   • Necessary for large or complex obstructions.
   • General anesthesia is required.
   • Remove foreign objects or the damaged intestine.
   • Typically performed after imaging confirms the blockage.
   • Post-op care includes antibiotics and pain relief.
4. Fluid Therapy
   • Administered intravenously.
   • Rehydrates and corrects electrolyte imbalances.
   • Prevents shock from dehydration.
   • Often combined with supportive care during recovery.
   • Critical for stabilizing the dog pre-surgery.

Post-Treatment Care for Dog Intestinal Blockage

After treatment, whether through surgery or endoscopic removal, your dog will need proper care to recover fully:

Rest: 

Keep your dog calm and prevent strenuous activities during the recovery period.

Dietary Adjustments: 

Feed your dog easily digestible food like bland chicken or prescribed vet food.

Medication: 

Follow the vet’s instructions regarding pain relief and antibiotics to prevent infections.

Always schedule follow-up visits to monitor your dog’s recovery.

How Much Is Surgery for a Dog with Intestinal Blockage?

The expenses incurred in performing surgery to remove bowel obstruction in dogs depend on several factors, including:

• The severity of the condition
• Area of the blockage
• And the clinic

The average cost can range from $1200 to $5000. 

The upper limit applies when the patient has to undergo complicated surgery or spend an extended stay in the hospital.

 

Learn from the Best on This Topic!

Are you curious to further dig into the dog intestinal blockage in detail and wanna polish your skills and learn the latest techniques and treatments? 

In that case, we invite you to attend our webinar on intestinal surgery in our upcoming DVM Central Expo- November Edition.

Instructors: Bonnie Grambow Campbell

Title: "Basics of Small Intestinal Surgery: Enterotomy, Resection and Anastomosis"

Expo Details:

Here are the details of DVM Central Expo- November Edition.
 

Date: November 20, 2024

Time: 2:00-4:00 PM (US Eastern Time)

1.5 RACE-approved CE credits offered. 

Webinar 1:

Speaker: Dr. Bonnie Grambow Campbell

Topic: The Basics of Small Intestinal Surgery: Enterotomy, Resection and Anastomosis
 

• 1 CE Credit
• Sponsored by GerVetUSA

 

Webinar 2:

Speaker: Lindsey Wendt

Topic: From Science to Practice: Integrating Hypochlorous Acid in Veterinary Care
 

• 0.5 CE Credit 
• Sponsored by HICC Pet

 

Join us for an exclusive educational experience and earn free CE credits!

Preventing Dog Intestinal Blockage

The best way to prevent intestinal blockages in your dog is to limit their chances of ingesting non-food material.

Consider the following tips:

• Be mindful of what your dog chews or plays with and avoid giving foreign objects.
• Provide safe, durable toys that won’t break.
• Ensure your dog is fed the right food, restrain bones, etc.
• Prevent your dogs from scavenging through garbage and debris.

To Sum Up!

Dog intestinal blockage is a serious health concern, even if it is mild and temporary, as it totally disturbs the canine quality of life.

As soon as you suspect that your dog is giving their best to poo but is unable to do so calmly, consult your veterinarian.

DVM Central is a reliable veterinary marketplace where you can buy quality pet-related products and address common disease concerns. 

Additionally, we conduct RACE-approved Virtual Expos to help veterinary professionals stay current with trends and elevate their practices. 

Don’t forget to attend our webinars on “Small Intestinal Surgery: Enterotomy, Resection and Anastomosis” to further get clarity on concerns. 

 

FAQs

What is intestinal blockage in dogs?

Dog intestinal blockage, or bowel obstruction, is a partial or complete blockage of the intestines that stops solid foods or liquids from passing through. 

What can I give my dog for intestinal blockage?

Do not attempt to treat an intestinal blockage at home. 

Always seek professional veterinary assistance. Medications or at-home remedies can worsen the condition if not prescribed by a vet.