If you have a dog-friendly beach near you, you are probably spending lots of time there! However, keep in mind the dangers of the beach. One consideration is consuming sand. So, read below to learn what you should do if your dog eats sand!
What is Sand Impaction?
Ingesting sand is not harmful to your four-legged friend. However, consuming large amounts can develop into a health issue. Sand impaction is when a dog eats too much sand, and the situation becomes an emergency.
Symptoms
If your furry friend eats sand, some signs of sand impaction include:
- restlessness
- loss of appetite
- vomiting
- distended abdomine
- abdominal pain
- straining to use the bathroom
- constipation
- dehydration
Treatment
If your canine eats sand and is exhibiting any of the symptoms above, contact your vet immediately. For mild cases of sand impaction, your vet will often treat your furry friend with anti-nausea and pain medications. You can also help your companion pass the sand by ensuring they have fresh water to drink and by feeding them a couple of teaspoons of pumpkin puree. Depending on the severity, your vet may also hospitalize your pup and administer fluids and anti-vomiting medications. In rare and severe cases in which the dog does not respond to the treatment above, surgery may be required to remove the sand from the dog’s intestinal tract.
Prevention
To keep your companion from ingesting large amounts of sand, there are precautions you can take. First, rinse their toys frequently to prevent accidental ingestion of sand and buildup over time. Toys with flat and smooth surfaces, such as a frisbee, are the best toys to bring to the beach because they won’t collect as much sand. Additionally, keep your furry friend from drinking ocean water. Not only is the salt water harmful in larger quantities, but it can also contain sand that can add up over time. Lastly, thought it can be a challenge, keep your pal from digging holes at the beach. This can cause excessive amounts of sand to be ingested. Though we love seeing out furry friends happy, keep them entertained in other ways during your day at the beach.
Follow the guide above if your furry friend eats sand!