Top five BBQ foods that cause bowel obstructions in dogs

 foods that cause bowel obstructions in dogs

The Fourth of July is here, and that means it’s time to fire up the grill! Nothing draws a crowd—both human and canine!—like the mouth-watering scent of the barbecue. 

 

Despite your dog’s best effort to woo some food off your plate, resist the urge to throw them a bone (or a kebab or anything else!). Not only are some table foods toxic to dogs, but many classic barbecue dishes could land your dog in the ER with a bowel obstruction.

Obstructions happen when a pet eats something that can’t be digested, and it ends up getting stuck in their stomach or gut. Signs of an obstruction include persistent vomiting, lack of appetite, lethargy and abdominal pain (which may look like hunching or whining). These blockages are life threatening and typically require surgery to remove the stuck item.

These are the top five most common foods to cause obstructions in dogs:

  • Bones. A juicy steak bone may be too yummy for your dog to patiently gnaw on—they may gulp it down in excitement. 
  • Corn cob. Corn cobs are the perfect size and shape to completely plug your dog’s intestines. Many dogs scavenge these from the trash, so keep trash cans tightly lidded.
  • Watermelon rinds. The seed-free fruit of a watermelon is a cool, juicy treat for a dog, but it must be cut off the indigestible rind. If given a whole slice of watermelon, your dog will likely devour it, rind and all.
  • Avocado pits. Leaving the avocado pit in the bowl is a finishing touch for many a guacamole gourmand, but that smooth, circular pit will easily slide right down your dog’s gullet if given the chance.
  • Peach pits. Summertime is peach time! And your dog may be tempted by the juices left behind to sneak a taste of any unattended pits.
     

Between the dangers of poisoning and risk of an obstruction, it’s best to steer clear from giving any table foods to your dog. Be sure to cover trash cans tightly and quickly clear up any unattended leftovers to prevent any sneaky dining your dog may attempt.

Worried your dog may have eaten something they shouldn’t have? Access free 24/7 Live Chat through the myVCA app, where our licensed veterinary professionals are always ready to answer your questions. 

 

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