The Dangers of Dogs Eating Chewed Gum: What Can Happen and How to Prevent It
Do you know what could happen if your beloved pup gets ahold of some chewed gum? While it may seem harmless, the truth is that there can be serious consequences for dogs that eat chewed gum. This article will discuss what happens to a dog’s body when consuming chewed gum and what steps are necessary to prevent potential health risks. From understanding the symptoms of ingested gum to how it can be treated, this guide will provide essential information about what happens if a dog eats chewed gum. So read on and learn more about keeping your furry family member safe!
What Happens When a Dog Eats Chewed Gum?
The most serious risk caused by a dog eating chewed gum is the potential for an intestinal blockage. The sticky consistency of the gum can cause it to stick together in the intestines and form an obstruction. This blockage can prevent food from passing through the bowels, leading to pain, vomiting, and potentially lethal consequences if left untreated. Depending on where the blockage occurs in the intestinal tract, surgery may be necessary to remove it.
Other complications that may arise if a dog ingests chewed gum include:
Infection
Eating foreign objects, such as chewing gum, can introduce bacteria into your pup’s digestive system, potentially causing infection or illness.
Toxicity
Most chewing gum contains a variety of ingredients that are toxic to dogs, including xylitol or sugar alcohols, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea and even liver failure.
Malnutrition
When food is not able to pass through the intestines, your pup may become malnourished due to inadequate nutrition absorption.
Allergic reaction
Some dogs may experience an allergic reaction after eating chewed gum, which could lead to swelling of the tongue or throat, difficulty breathing, or other symptoms.
Choking hazard
Chewing gum can be a choking hazard if not chewed properly before swallowing, as pieces may become stuck in your pup’s throat or oesophagus.
How to Keep Your Dog Safe From Chewing Gum
Fortunately, with proper precautions, there are steps pet parents can take to keep their furry family members away from chewed gum and out of harm’s way:
Keep chewing gum well out of reach
The best way to ensure that your pup doesn’t get its paws on any discarded pieces of chewing gum is to make sure that you keep it well out of reach at all times. If you have kids at home or visitors who might bring chewing gum into your home, remind them not to leave it lying within reach of curious pups!
Choose sugarless gum
Sugar-free chewing gum is the safest option for your pup as it does not contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener which can be toxic to dogs.
Monitor what your pup eats
It’s important to keep a close eye on what your pup is eating and ensure that it only consumes things that are safe for them. If you notice any strange behaviour or symptoms of illness after ingestion, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Teach ‘no chewing’ commands
Train your pup to understand what is and what isn’t acceptable for them to eat, so that they can be deterred from any dangerous items. When you take your pup on a walk, make sure it has good recall and knows what the ‘no chewing’ command means.
Immediately clean up any discarded chewing gum
If you do find any bits of chewed-up pieces lying around – whether inside or outside –, make sure that you immediately clean them up before they have time to attract attention from nearby animals (including pets!).
Properly dispose of used chewing gums
Rather than just throwing used gums away into garbage cans outside your home or leaving them lying around in public spaces (e.g., parks), make sure that you properly dispose of them in sealed bags so that no animals can get access to them.
What Are the Symptoms of Dog Eating Chewed Gum?
The most common symptom of a dog eating chewed gum is an upset stomach that results in vomiting or diarrhea. Other signs may include lethargy and loss of appetite. If you suspect your dog has eaten some chewed gum, it’s important to contact your vet right away for treatment options.
Steps To Take To Keep Your Dog Safe From Chewing Gum:
- Keep chewing gum well out of reach
- Immediately clean up any discarded pieces
- Properly dispose of used gums
- Monitor your pet for any symptoms related to consuming chewed gum
- Seek veterinary attention if you suspect that your dog has swallowed chewing gum.
Conclusion
Chewing gum can be a dangerous snack for dogs, as it can cause serious digestive issues and potentially lethal blockages if ingested. To keep your pup safe from harm’s way, make sure that you keep any pieces of chewing gum well out of reach, clean them up immediately if found lying around, and properly dispose of used gums in sealed bags. Monitor your pet for any symptoms related to consuming chewed gum and seek veterinary attention if you suspect ingesting. With these precautions in mind, you can help ensure the safety and health of your beloved furry family members!
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