Dogs enjoy playing and exploring, which can occasionally cause them to swallow harmful objects. Swallowing a squeaky dog toy is common with curious and playful dogs. But it can be dangerous for them.
Squeaky toys are manufactured to be chewed and played with, but if your dog swallows one, it might have major health repercussions.
This article will explain all the steps you must take if your dog swallows a squeaky dog toy.
6 Steps To Take If Your Dog Swallows A Squeaky Toy
Owning dogs comes with many responsibilities, including knowing what to do when your dog swallows a squeaky toy. In case you find yourself in a pickle like this, you need to:
Step 1 - Stay Calm
If you are a dog owner, panicking when your dog swallows something is natural. But what's more important is to stay calm.
Your dog can sense your stress and become even more agitated.
Take a deep breath. Then try to remain calm to help your dog remain calm as well.
Step 2- Call The Vet Immediately
Suppose your dog ate a squeaky toy. In that case, they will gag or choke and have difficulty breathing. These are obvious signs that a toy squeaker may be caught in their throat. It is a medical emergency, so you need to get veterinarian help right away!
Pet owners must always have their vet on speed dial. If you can't reach a veterinarian immediately, try to assist your dog by opening its mouth and inspecting its throat.
Unless your veterinarian instructs you to, never induce vomiting yourself. This is because the squeaky toy sometimes has a sharp part or is made of petroleum. If you induce vomiting, you may harm the dog's throat more as the toy leaves the body.
Do not attempt to remove anything that appears deeply embedded in the dog's neck. You must immediately take your dog to the vet to ensure the object can be securely removed. And get it removed after they are sedated.
Do not cut or pull any threads, strings, or other visible cords dangling from the dog's mouth, as you can hurt them further by doing so.
If the toy is visible and not too deep down, try to gently pull it out with tweezers, being careful not to push it down farther.
If your dog ate a squeaky toy and is unconscious and there isn't anything visibly stuck in their throat, you should immediately perform the Heimlich maneuver on your dog.
Heimlich Maneuver for Dogs
The steps for performing the Heimlich maneuver on dogs are:
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Small Dogs
With one hand stabilizing them behind their back, carefully lay your dog's body on its side or back. At the area of the abdomen right below the sternum, place the palm of your hand and quickly push inward and forward.
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Big dogs
Avoid attempting to pick up a large dog, as the size of the animal may put their safety at risk. Instead, take the following steps:
If the dog is standing, wrap your arms over their belly and clasp your hands. Form a fist and firmly push up and forward directly under the sternum. Then turn the dog over on its side.
Place one hand on the dog's back for support if they are lying on their side. Then squeeze the abdomen. Your one hand should be placed right below the sternum, moving upward and forward with the other hand.
Step 3 - Feed Your Dog Small Meals
If your dog is not showing any signs of discomfort, you can feed them small, easily digestible meals throughout the day. This will help the toy pass through its digestive system more easily.
Avoid giving your dog large meals, which can cause more discomfort and hinder the process.
Step 4 - Give Your Dog Plenty Of Water
It's important to keep your dog hydrated, especially if they are experiencing vomiting or diarrhea. Offer them plenty of water and closely monitor their water intake.
Step 5 - Encourage Exercise
Exercise can help move the toy through your dog's digestive system. Take your dog for a walk, or you can play with them so things get moving.
Step 6 - Check For The Toy In Your Dog's Poop
If your dog swallowed a squeaky toy, check your dog's poop for up to a week for the toy. It's possible that the squeaker passes through your dog's digestive system without any issues.
How To Find Out If Your Dog Has Swallowed A Squeaky Toy?
We aren't always so fortunate enough to catch our dog eating squeaky parts of a toy. But it should go without saying that you should call the vet to be safe. However, there are specific signs and actions to watch out for if you think your dog has ingested a squeaky toy, such as:
- Your dog is throwing up.
- Your dog is pawing at his mouth.
- Your dog is gasping for air or hacking up.
- You find more drool on your dog throws than usual.
- Your dog isn't eating as much.
- Your dog is acting oddly, showing signs of lethargy.
- Your dog has an upset tummy.
- Your dog is constipated, likely due to an intestinal blockage.
- Your dog is clearly in discomfort because of the symptoms.
Safer Alternatives to Squeaky Toys
Toys with fun squeakers are popular among dogs and their owners. But they can pose a hazard if eaten.
Fortunately, there are plenty of safer alternatives to squeaky toys that dogs will still love. Here are some safer options for dog toys:
Rope Toys
Rope toys for dogs are great to play tug-of-war. They come in various sizes and shapes and can be made from various materials, including cotton, hemp, and nylon.
Rope toys can help clean your dog's teeth while promoting healthy chewing habits.
Treat Toys
These toys are designed to be filled with treats and encourage your dog to work to get the treats out.
They come in different sizes or shapes and are made from durable rubber. These toys are perfect for dogs that like to chew and can help reduce boredom and anxiety.
Tennis Balls
Tennis balls are classic toy fetch toys for dogs and are great for playing fetch. They come in many sizes, so you can find one that's the perfect fit for your dog. Tennis balls are made from non-toxic materials and are easy to clean.
Chew Toys
Dog chew toys are designed for pets that love to chew. They are available in various shapes and materials, including rubber, nylon, and wood.
Chew toys will keep your dog's teeth clean and healthy and can also help reduce stress and anxiety.
Plush Toys without Squeakers
If your dog loves soft toys, look for plush toys without squeakers. Plush toys without squeakers are a safer alternative to squeaky toys, and your dog will still love cuddling with them.
Natural Treats
Finally, one of the best alternatives to toys is a natural treat. Dogs love treats, and there are plenty of safe and healthy options for them. Look for treats that are made from natural ingredients, like sweet potatoes, chicken, and beef.
It is important to give your dog toys according to your own personal experience on what your dog enjoys and what is safe for them.
Final Word!
Dogs swallowing toy squeakers is common. But it's crucial to remain calm and evaluate the situation if you see your dog swallowing a squeaky toy. Immediately seek veterinary care if the toy gets stuck, or you see the dog pass out. Keep a close eye on your dog and take action to help the toy pass through the digestive system.
If the toy is stuck and you see your dog choking, seek veterinary attention immediately. If not, monitor your dog closely and take steps to help the toy pass through its digestive system. Don't try to induce vomiting if you see the toy stuck in your dog's mouth.
Always put your pet's health and safety first. If you are unsure about your dog's condition, seek help from a vet.
