One of our clients recently had an unfortunate incident involving their beloved 8 year old Labrador, Milo, and a box of yummy honey lollipops. The lollipops had been stored in the garage for what was thought safe keeping, but Milo had found the secret hiding place and consumed a rather large quantity of them - sticks and all! Unfortunately for Milo these lollipops did not agree with him at all and he was rushed to our Canning Vale hospital after being found collapsed in the backyard. He had vomited up several wrappers and broken lollipop sticks, and was feeling very sorry for himself.

Poor Milo presented with a slow heart rate, poor circulation, a decreased body temperature, his gums were quite pale and he was very flat and lethargic, all signs indicative of shock. He was promptly put onto intravenous fluids and antibiotics to help stabilise his condition. Blood samples were taken and tests were run on-site in the hospital to assess the effect these lollipops were having on his body systems. 

Radiographs were also taken to assess the condition of Milo's gastrointestinal system and his abdomen. The vets were concerned that the sharp lollipop sticks may have perforated Milo's stomach or intestines. If this was the case, Milo could develop a life threatening condition called peritonitis. Luckily the initial radiographs showed no obstruction of the stomach or intestines.

As treatment continued Milo improved with his vital signs beginning to return to normal and he started looking more alert. The main concern now was how much damage, if any, the sharp lollipop sticks had caused to the lining of Milo's stomach and intestinal tract and whether they would all continue to pass through his system without causing more damage.

Milo was closely monitored by the veterinary and nursing team throughout the day to make sure his vital signs continued to improve and that he was comfortable and not in any pain. Another radiograph of Milo's abdomen was taken later in the day to ensure no obstructions were present or other complications were evolving, but thankfully no further problems arose. Throughout the rest of the day Milo continued to improve and once the vets were satisfied that he was out of any danger, Milo was able to be sent home to his very relieved owners.

Milo's story has a happy ending but unfortunately not all pets are so lucky. If you suspect that your dog has eaten anything he/she shouldn't have eaten, please contact us immediately for advice. Coming up to Christmas, there will be many lollies, chocolates, toys and other goodies that are not usually in the house and your dog will think these are really good to eat or chew as well.