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Peer-reviewed veterinary case report

Vomiting in dogs caused by sand blocking the small intestine

By Moles, A D et al.·Published in The Journal of small animal practice·2010·Murdoch University-Surgery, Australia·View original on PubMed

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Original publication title: Sand impaction of the small intestine in eight dogs.

Species:
dog
Dog vomitingStomach & digestionDogs

Plain-English summary

Eight dogs were brought to the vet because they were vomiting and showing signs of lethargy, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain. X-rays revealed that they had sand stuck in their intestines, causing a blockage. Four of the dogs underwent surgery to remove the sand, while the other four were treated with medication. Fortunately, seven out of the eight dogs recovered well after treatment.

People also search for: dog vomiting sand blockage · dog abdominal pain treatment · dog lethargy and loss of appetite

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To describe signalment, clinical findings, imaging and treatment of intestinal sand impaction in the dog. METHODS: Medical records of dogs with radiographic evidence of small intestinal sand impaction were reviewed. RESULTS: Sand impaction resulting in small intestinal obstruction was diagnosed in eight dogs. All dogs presented with signs of vomiting. Other clinical signs included anorexia, lethargy and abdominal pain. Radiographs confirmed the presence of radio-opaque material consistent with sand causing distension of the terminal small intestine in all dogs. Four dogs were treated surgically for their impaction and four dogs were managed medically. Seven of the eight dogs survived. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Both medical and surgical management of intestinal sand impaction in the dog can be effective and both afford a good prognosis for recovery.

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Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20137006/