How long can a dog survive with a blockage?

Intestinal obstruction in dogs is never a simple "digestive problem", but a life crisis racing against time. When foreign objects block the intestines, the countdown of the dog's life quietly starts. This process is not only cruelly restricted by the physiological mechanism, but also full of opportunities due to the timely intervention and love of the owner.

The causes of intestinal obstruction in dogs are complex and diverse, which directly affects their survival time. Curious puppies like to explore the world with their mouths. Once small objects such as coins, toy parts, and socks are swallowed, they may get stuck in the intestines; greedy dogs are not only prone to obstruction after accidentally eating sharp objects such as chicken bones and fish bones, but may also scratch the intestines and cause infection; elderly dogs may have intestinal stenosis and blockage due to intestinal tumors or polyps. These different types of obstruction are like "time bombs" hidden in the lives of dogs, which may detonate health crises at any time. ​

From the moment the obstruction occurs, the dog's body begins to suffer cruel "torture". Initially, they will frequently retch, but nothing will come out. Intermittent pain will begin to appear in the abdomen, and the once lively tail will droop limply. As time goes by, the gas and liquid in the intestine cannot pass normally. The intestine above the obstruction will expand and become congested due to the increasing pressure. The dog will become listless, refuse to eat, and even lose interest in his favorite snacks. When the obstruction lasts for more than 24 hours, the blood circulation in the intestine is blocked, and the intestinal wall begins to be ischemic and necrotic. At this time, the dog will experience severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and a sudden drop in body temperature, and fall into a state of shock. If not treated in time, the candle of life may be extinguished in just 72 hours. ​

The severity and location of the obstruction are the key factors that determine the dog's survival time. If the obstruction is close to the stomach, the dog may be able to expel some foreign matter through vomiting, gaining precious treatment time; but if the foreign matter is stuck in the small intestine, especially in key areas such as the duodenum, intestinal peristalsis is difficult to push, and a series of complications caused by the obstruction will rapidly deteriorate. There was a Bichon Frise who accidentally ate a ball of yarn. The yarn was tangled into a huge ball in the intestine. In just 48 hours, the dog developed sepsis due to intestinal necrosis and was ultimately unable to recover. These heartbreaking cases remind owners at all times: when you find that your dog has abnormal symptoms, you must race against time. ​

In the process of fighting intestinal obstruction, timely and effective treatment is the light of hope for the continuation of life. For mild obstruction, doctors may try to use drugs to promote intestinal peristalsis, or use enema to help the dog expel foreign objects. But for more serious cases, surgery is almost the only option. On the operating table, the doctor carefully cuts open the intestine, removes the blocked foreign objects, and repairs the damaged intestinal wall. Every action is related to the dog's life and death. Postoperative care is also critical. From strict fasting and water abstinence to gradually resuming liquid food, from careful wound care to close monitoring of physical indicators, every bit of the owner's care is helping the dog's recovery. ​

In the face of intestinal obstruction, prevention is always better than cure. The owner should always pay attention to small items at home and store dangerous items such as coins and buttons; avoid feeding dogs with sharp bones; check the dog's toys regularly and replace the damaged parts in time. When the dog shows symptoms such as loss of appetite, repeated vomiting, and depression, do not be lucky and send it to the hospital for examination immediately. Because in the life-and-death battle of intestinal obstruction, time is life. One minute earlier diagnosis and treatment means more hope for the dog. ​

Every dog ​​is a little sun in the owner's life. They warm our years with loyalty and companionship. When the shadow of intestinal obstruction covers their lives, we can only support them with professional knowledge, decisive actions and endless love. A sky of hope.