Help! My Dog Ate a Sock But Is Acting Normal
Dogs are notorious for eating things that they shouldn’t be eating. This is especially true for young puppies as they explore the world with their mouths.
Depending on what they ate, they might get an upset stomach or need an urgent visit to the vet.
For example, they might experience some diarrhea if they nibble on the grass in the yard. If they eat a sock, however, they may need emergency surgery.
My Dog Ate a Sock But Is Acting Normal…What Should I Do?
Why Do Dogs Like Socks?
Dogs like socks for several reasons. For one thing, they smell like you; the fabric absorbs the sweat and natural oils from your feet and that creates a concentrated version of your scent.
While it might not be obvious to us, it’s different for dogs, who have an extraordinary sense of smell.
For them, the socks remind them of you. The scent gives them a sense of safety and comfort, especially when you’re not around.
The fact that they’re soft and stretchy only makes them that much more fun to play with. They’re also easy to carry around since they’re lightweight.
What to Do If Your Dog Eats a Sock
Take your dog to the vet right away. Depending on the size of the sock, it can easily cause an intestinal blockage, which can have dire consequences.
For example, it can restrict blood flow to parts of the digestive tract. The sock can also cause a tear in the intestine, which can lead to life-threatening infections.
While you’re going to the vet, monitor your pup for any signs of distress.
My Dog Ate a Sock But Is Acting Normal…Does He Need to Go to the Vet?
Remember, just because they are acting normal now, doesn’t mean that they’re actually fine. By the time they start developing symptoms, it may be too late.
Passing the Sock Naturally
Once you’re at the vet, they may recommend doing an ultrasound or x-ray to locate the sock.
If the sock is small and does not appear to be causing an obstruction, your vet may recommend letting it pass naturally. You can help your dog with this by feeding them a high fiber diet.
For example, you can add some sweet potato or canned pumpkin to their food. It will bulk up their stool, making it easier for the sock to move through the digestive tract.
Feeding your dog small, frequent meals can also help by keeping the digestive system moving. We recommend something bland such as boiled chicken and rice.
Finally, make sure to give them plenty of fresh water. That will keep them hydrated so that the digestive system will be able to work properly.
Depending on the dog, it can take up to several days for the sock to pass naturally. In the meantime, pay attention to their bowel movements.
Monitoring For Symptoms
While you’re waiting for your dog to pass the sock, watch them closely for any signs of intestinal blockage. This includes diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy and abdominal pain.
If they develop any of these symptoms, take your dog back to the vet right away. They likely won’t be able to pass the sock on their own and will need medical intervention.
My Dog Ate a Sock, Should I Induce Vomiting?
Never induce vomiting as it can make the situation worse. For example, the sock can become lodged in the airway while they’re vomiting and that can lead to choking or aspiration, depending on its size.
Vomiting can also cause the sock to become stuck in the throat. This is especially true for larger or tightly woven socks. Certain breeds such as pugs and bulldogs are also at a higher risk of complications.
Surgical Removal
Emergency surgery may be needed if the sock doesn’t pass naturally.
Depending on where it’s stuck, the vet will need to perform a gastrotomy (opening of the stomach) or an enterotomy (opening of the intestines) under general anesthesia.
On average, the surgery will take about 1 to 2 hours. However, certain factors can shorten or lengthen the procedure.
For example, it may take longer if the sock has moved far into the intestines or caused a perforation. In cases like that, the vet will need to repair the damaged tissue before suturing the incision.
Gastrotomies, on the other hand, tend to be quicker and less complex. Having said that, it does depend on the dog’s condition. For example, it may take longer if they’re in shock as the vet will need to stabilize their vitals before proceeding.
Once the surgery is finished, the vet will closely monitor them for any complications. If everything goes smoothly, your dog will be able to go home within 24 to 48 hours.
If complications arise, they may need to stay at the vet longer for monitoring and treatment.
Preventing Future Accidents
Dogs that eat socks are likely to be repeat offenders. To prevent future incidents, make sure to keep socks and other items out of their reach. Don’t leave them on the floor where they can easily get at them.
Teaching them commands such as ‘drop it’ or ‘leave it’ may also help. It’ll prevent the issue before it starts, reducing the risk of ingestion. It’ll also encourage your pup to wait for permission first before playing with objects.
