Avoid emergency vet visits this Easter

09 April 2020

PDSA warning to owners after a lucky lamb bone escape.

PDSA vets are urging pet owners to be extra vigilant this Easter and ensure pets don’t get their paws on any leftover roasts. The warning comes after the vet charity saved the life of a Shih Tzu who wolfed down a lamb bone, which then got stuck in his throat.

The warning is particularly important in the current lockdown – although vet practices are still open for emergencies, most are operating with much-reduced numbers of staff, in order to comply with government guidelines to help keep everyone safe.

Twelve-year-old Toby suddenly developed a hacking cough, and seemed very lethargic. His worried owner, Mrs Bridget Evans from Liverpool, contacted Kirkdale PDSA Pet Hospital. Vets were immediately concerned about his difficulty breathing, so he was brought in to be examined.

Toby had a high heart rate and X-rays revealed a bone was lodged at the top of his windpipe, which had caused significant swelling. This resulted in severe breathing difficulties and would’ve made it impossible for him to eat. PDSA Vet Liz Double explained: “The bone had two spikes at either end and had got very firmly stuck near the back of his throat. We were amazed that Toby hadn’t been in more distress, but he was very lucky it hadn’t completely blocked his airway. Shih Tzus often have very narrow airways because of the flat shape of their faces, which can increase the risk of anaesthetic and would also make removing the blockage more challenging.”

Mrs Evans said: “We’d eaten lamb chops a couple of nights before, so I did wonder whether he’d managed to grab one. When they phoned to tell me what the problem was and that he’d need risky surgery to remove it, I was terrified that I’d lose him.”

Under anaesthetic, Vet Liz managed to get a tiny breathing tube past the bone in Toby’s airway, ensuring he could breathe during the procedure. X-rays helped to confirm the exact position of the bone, then Liz very skilfully cut the spikes off the main part of the bone, so it could be removed in separate pieces.

The surgery was a success, but Toby still wasn’t out of the woods as there was a chance his very swollen throat could close and stop his breathing. So he stayed at PDSA for two days for observation and round-the-clock care. Luckily, there was no significant damage, and Toby was able to go home to his very relieved owner.

Mrs Evans added: “I can’t thank PDSA enough for saving my little Toby, I don’t know what I would’ve done without them. Toby was back to his normal lively self a few days later and I’m very careful to keep any leftovers safely out of his reach now!”

Liz continued: “Toby is very lucky to be alive. Sadly we often see cases of bones lodged in dogs’ throats, stomachs and intestines, and not all of them have a happy ending like Toby’s. Cooked bones pose the most danger, as they can splinter and pierce a dog’s organs. Raw bones can also be risky, as large chunks can break off and cause potentially fatal blockages in the throat or guts, and even well-chewed up bones can accumulate and damage the lining of the guts.

“I’d advise only giving pet-safe chews and treats to dogs – there are so many types available, why take the risk of giving bones?”

PDSA is encouraging all pet owners to take steps to reduce the risk of any accidents during this time. Other Easter dangers include chocolate and raisins, both of which are toxic to dogs. Owners are advised to call their vet first if they think their pet may need emergency care, not to turn up at your vets unannounced.

The current Coronavirus outbreak has had a huge impact on PDSA, which provides free and low cost treatment for the pets of people in need. Our vital services are needed now more than ever, yet our service could be at risk due to the current financial uncertainty many are now facing. We would be grateful for any donation or support in the current times.