Even Vets’ Pets Get Into Trouble Too!

Our very own Dr Nathalie’s dog Baxter recently reminded us that even a vet’s own dog isn’t immune to mischief.

While playing at the dog park with Dr. Nathalie’s daughter, Baxter spotted a mini tennis ball that belonged to another small dog. Naturally, he decided it should be his. He grabbed it and bolted, with Dr Nathalie’s daughter close behind trying to retrieve it.

Then it happened.

Baxter suddenly stopped and before anyone could react, he swallowed the mini tennis ball whole. Straight down the hatch.

He trotted home looking very pleased with himself, but Dr Nathalie was far less impressed with his latest stunt.

Baxter was rushed to Pascoe Vale Vet, where we attempted to induce vomiting. After several tries (and hoping the “magic potion” would do its job), the mini tennis ball stubbornly refused to reappear.

The next day, Baxter came to work with us. He was placed under general anesthetic so we could take abdominal X-rays and there it was, clear as day a perfectly round mini tennis ball sitting in his stomach.

Surgery was the only option.

Baxter underwent an exploratory procedure to remove the ball, with two vets and two nurses working together to solve the rather impressive problem he had created. Thankfully, the surgery was successful, and Baxter is now recovering well, though perhaps slightly embarrassed.

This isn’t Baxter’s first rodeo when it comes to eating things he shouldn’t, but it is the first time he’s needed surgery. Previously, he’s visited us four times in one year for induced vomiting after snacking on:

  • Trail mix (including sultanas — a big no-no for dogs)
  • Chocolate
  • A piping bag full of icing
  • Another mini tennis ball (which thankfully came back up!)

Baxter has had a talent for food (and non-food) scavenging since he was a tiny pup. Unfortunately, as he’s grown bigger and taller, simply moving things to the back of the bench is no longer enough. Baby locks are now essential in the Baxter-proofing plan.

If Baxter were human, he’d definitely be a hoarder with a particular taste for the forbidden.

The takeaway?
 Dogs are quick, curious, and sometimes far too confident in their swallowing abilities. If you suspect your pet has eaten something they shouldn’t, don’t wait to contact your vet immediately. Acting quickly can make all the difference.