Ingested Foreign Objects - We Can Help Your Pet

Pets love to put anything and everything in their mouths, and as any pet owner knows, they often end up swallowing things they shouldn’t. This can be a very serious situation and may even be fatal if not treated promptly. WTEVC can get your pet the help they need.

Endoscopy Foreign Body Retrieval

Endoscopy is a procedure that doesn’t require incisions and can be used to remove the foreign object before it reaches the stomach or intestine. An endoscope with a camera will be inserted down the esophagus, so the doctor can see where the object is lodged. They will use instruments guided by the scope to remove the object from your pet’s esophagus.

A variety of household items, such as toys, bones, or socks can become lodged in a pet’s esophagus or stomach. These items can become lodged in the small intestines as well. It is important that foreign bodies are removed as soon as possible to prevent damage to your pet or loss of function.

Airway Foreign Bodies

Esophageal Foreign Bodies

Gastric Foreign Bodies

If you think your pet has swallowed a foreign body, please contact your veterinarian immediately. They will be able to advise you on whether endoscopy is the best course of treatment for your pet.

Why Choose Us?

In the event of an emergency, every pet owner wants to ensure their beloved animal companion receives the best possible care. That's why West Texas Emergency Veterinary Clinic is the right choice when accidents or illness strike. With over 25 years of experience, our team is committed to providing quality care for all pets that come through our doors. We understand how stressful it can be to see your pet in pain, and we'll do everything we can to ease their discomfort and help them on the road to recovery. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment. Your pet's health is always our top priority..

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West Texas Emergency Veterinary Clinic is the right clinic for you and your pet when unexpected situations arise. With over 25 years of experience, you can trust that they are safe in our hands. We are committed to providing quality emergency veterinary care throughout the life of your pet. When it comes to the health of your pet, don't wait. Contact us today to ensure your pet receives the best care available.

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FAQ’S

What do I do if my pet swallowed a foreign body?

If your animal ingests a foreign body, it's important to remove it as soon as possible. This can result in systemic toxicity, inflammation of the abdominal lining, infection, or obstruction of the intestinal tract if it stays lodged inside the animal. The process of foreign body removal depends on what was ingested, how it was ingested, and when it was ingested. In certain cases, the object will naturally pass while others may require open surgery. Before the operation, the vet will perform a physical examination and complete x-rays (or other imaging scans) to determine the best course of action. If you think your animal has ingested a foreign body, contact your emergency veterinary hospital immediately. Time is of the essence when it comes to these situations.

How do vets remove foreign objects?

When a pet swallows’ foreign material, it can become lodged in the digestive tract. If the object is in the intestines, sometimes a veterinarian can move the object back into the stomach, and then endoscopically remove the object without making incisions into the stomach organ itself. This removes the concern of healing the gastrointestinal tract, as no incisions were made. Another type of surgery that may be performed is a enterotomy. This involves making an incision into the small intestine to remove the object. Enterotomies are typically only performed when the object is in the small intestine and cannot be removed with an endoscope. They are riskier than gastrotomies because the small intestine is more delicate. Contact WTEVC is you believe your pet has ingested a foreign object.

How long can a foreign object stay in my pet?

Foreign objects can be hazardous to your pet's health if left in their bodies. When ingested, foreign objects usually travel through the digestive tract in 24 hours or more. If small and smooth, they could pass harmlessly through the tract on their own. If sharp, however, they can perforate vital organs. If this occurs and there is no free way out, surgery is called for, as are visits to the vet every couple of days to have the site checked over until it has passed.

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Our in-house diagnostics and services enable us to treat both life-threatening and less urgent conditions for pets, guaranteeing the best care with a fast turnaround time.

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Real Patients. Real Reviews.

I highly recommend this clinic. They care about the patients that come in. It's a clean and well run establishment. Prices are reasonable also.

Barbara White

May 7, 2022.

THANK YOU to the Emergency Vet Clinic for diagnosing our puppy and treating her for distemper. We came AFTER another vet said she had allergies. Despite an extremely long wait, the doctor took care of Lulu and even offered a follow up visit to check up on her. The front desk person (Kristin maybe? she is starting nights) is a true asset to the team. Thank you for being a resource in West Texas.

Matt R

April 17, 2022.

Zoe has been Phenomenal in supporting us thru our dog having puppies for the first time. She is very knowledgeable and patient. Thank you for everything.

Janean Lyons

April 17, 2022.

Careful attention to history of animal and explanation of treatment.

Becky Johnson

April 12, 2022.

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