Your dog ate glass and now you know what to do. Glass is an especially concerning object to swallow as it may cause severe damage to the digestive system. In this article, we’ll discuss what to do if your dog eats glass and how to prevent similar incidents in the future. We’ll also explain why you should take your dog to the vet right away if glass is swallowed.
What To Do If Your Dog Eats Glass
If a dog owner suspects that their pet has eaten glass, they should take them to the vet immediately. Depending on the amount of glass ingested and the size of the dog, there may be serious health risks that need to be addressed.
At the vet, the dog may be given an x-ray to determine the extent of the glass ingestion and any health risks it may pose. In some cases, the vet may be able to induce vomiting to get rid of some of the glass. If the glass is too large or has already been digested, the vet may recommend surgery to remove it.
In the meantime, the dog owner should monitor the dog’s behavior and watch for any signs of distress, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive panting. If the dog appears to be in pain, it is important to take them to the vet as soon as possible.
What Happens to Glass Inside of a Dog
When glass is inside a dog, it is usually a result of accidental ingestion. This can be dangerous as the glass can scratch, cut, or puncture the internal organs of the dog. In some cases, the glass can be passed naturally, but if it is too large or sharp, it can cause serious damage and require medical intervention. If the glass is not removed, it can cause an infection or inflammation and can even lead to septic shock. In some cases, the glass can even cause death. It is important to seek veterinary care immediately if your dog has ingested glass.
Signs Your Dog Ate Glass
If you suspect that your dog may have consumed glass, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms. In some cases, the symptoms may not appear for several days after ingestion. Here is a list of signs to look for that could indicate your dog has eaten glass.
1. Vomiting
2. Diarrhea
3. Abdominal pain
4. Loss of appetite
5. Increased thirst
6. Weakness
7. Lethargy
8. Blood in the stool
9. Excessive drooling
10. Swallowing difficulty
11. Cut or lacerations in the mouth or throat
If your dog is suffering from any of the signs and symptoms of eating glass, contact your vet or the emergency veterinary clinic immediately. Do not wait until morning if it’s the middle of the night.
How to Prevent Your Dog from Eating Glass
It is also important for the dog owner to take steps to prevent the dog from eating glass in the future. This may include child-proofing the home to ensure that the dog does not have access to broken glass, or using pet-safe cleaning products that do not contain glass or other sharp objects.
Frequently Asked Questions about What to Do If a Dog Eats Glass
The following questions are frequently asked by dog owners when their dog eats glass.
Can dogs digest glass?
Dogs can digest glass, but there's a high chance that it can cause serious issues for the dog. Glass can puncture, scratch, and cut a dog, which could lead to internal bleeding and other health issues.
Will eating glass kill a dog?
It is possible that if a dog eats glass, it could kill the dog. If your dog ate glass, contact the veterinarian immediately for medical attention.
Dog ate glass - how long will it take to pass?
How long it takes for a dog to pass glass depends on many factors, such as how fast the dog's body processes, how much food has been eaten and how much water has been consumed. Do not wait until your dog has passed the glass they ate. Seek medical attention immediately, as it can be life threatening.