THE animal charity PDSA saved the life of a dog who swallowed 2 tennis balls.
The charity’s veterinarians are advising owners to trade tennis balls for much safer toys.
Loki, a five-year-old crossbreed, landed himself in problem after a video game of bring with owner Amy ended in an emergency situation journey to Wolverhampton PDSA Pet Hospital.
Amy explained: “Loki is a high-energy dog and loves nothing more than a game of fetch. Most of his toys are the super strong ones, but his favourites are tennis balls.
“It was only when Loki refused to eat and started being sick, we realised something was wrong. We called PDSA, and they told us to bring him in.”
An x-ray revealed the problem: two whole balls inside his stomach.
PDSA Vet Catherine Burke said: “Our vet teams treat ball-related injuries every year, which can quickly turn into a life threatening situations. Loki’s situation was a case of life or death – without surgery, he would likely have died. One of the balls was lodged in his stomach, preventing him from keeping food down.
Loki’s emergency operation was a success: PDSA’s vets managed to remove both balls intact.
Loki, who almost died after swallowing two tennis balls
The charity is using Loki’s story to warn owners that a bit of innocent fun with a tennis ball can quickly turn into a life-threatening situation.
Catherine added: “If your dog loves to chew, there is also the risk they could swallow chewed up parts of the tennis ball; which can cause the same issues with gut blockage.”
Following the surgical treatment, Loki is back to his spirited self.
Adds Catherine: “There are a few important reasons they are not the best option for dogs, quite apart from the fact that they won’t last long under most dog’s jaws.
Loki’s x-ray showing the tennis balls
“The size of tennis balls and the way they bounce, means that there is a risk the ball can get stuck at the back of your dog’s throat, causing them to choke. It can become wedged too far in for you to remove it, blocking your dog’s airway, which can be fatal if the ball can’t be removed quickly.
“If this happens try to keep calm and if safe to do so, attempt to remove it from the back of the mouth. If you can’t contact your vet immediately.
“Tennis balls are covered in a felt layer which is abrasive and has a sandpaper-like effect. Over time it can wear down your dog’s teeth and cause pain and difficulty chewing.”
Instead of tennis balls, PDSA advises toys and balls particularly developed for dogs, as these are less most likely to break down when chewed.
“Make sure any ball you select is the ideal size for your dog; to prevent possibly deadly choking events or digestive tract clog – they need to be huge enough to be gotten with the teeth and brought, however not fit completely in the mouth,” said Catherine.
Depending on the sort of activity your dog delights in doing, here’s a guide to the very best toy to match:
• Tugging: rope toys and rubber rings are excellent for pulling video games.
• Retrieving: Balls of a safe size that they can’t choke on.
• Searching: conceal their kibble or treats in snuffle mats.
PDSA is the UK’s leading veterinary charity, through its 48 animal healthcare facilities throughout the UK, the charity conserves the lives of inadequately animals whose owners would otherwise have a hard time to manage treatment.
In times of challenge animals like Loki will still fall ill or end up being hurt and require emergency situation care. PDSA is appealing for contributions so that the charity can continue to support owners who have no place else to turn by supplying life-saving care to susceptible animals. To contribute, go to pdsa.org.uk
