Over the past few weeks Dave Cumber Vets in Weymouth, have seen a rise in the number of dogs that have swallowed fish hooks whole, or who have had fish hooks imbedded in their skin. Dogs love to sniff and soon they will find snacks which are bait or possibly a fish attached to a hook. The hook can easily end up stuck in the dog’s mouth, throat or stomach. Colourful fly or shiny bait are also tempting to dogs and can pierce lips or paws. Even exceptionally gentle dogs can become aggressive and bite when they are injured and in pain so always approach an injured dog cautiously and consider putting a muzzle on if needed.
Dave Cumber of Dave Cumber Vets offers advice on what you should do if your dog eats a fish hook, “If you dog swallows a fish hook it should be treated as a medical emergency, try to keep your dog calm and take it to the vet immediately. It is not advisable to try and remove the hook yourself or to let your dog pass the fish hook; the chances are too great it will cause internal injuries as it moves, or become lodged along the way. We may need to X-ray your dog, perform an emergency endoscopy or surgery to remove the hook while the dog is under aesthetic. Once the hook is removed, antibiotics are needed to prevent infection”.
Sometimes, dogs will experience other injuries such as fish hooks becoming embedded in paws, piercing a lip, or stuck anywhere else on the body. Usually the vet will remove the hook and treat the wound. It is not advised to cut the fish line if it is attached to the dogs mouth but if it is located elsewhere on the body then it is advised to cut the fish line so it won’t become tangled and cause further injuries. Pet owners should then cover the injured area with a towel or jacket to prevent the dog gnawing, or tugging at the fishing hook which can make the injury worse.
Dave Cumber went on to say “Nothing beats enjoying outdoor and sporting adventures with your dog by your side. Pay keen attention to your dog’s safety and it will be bright-eyed and bushy-tailed for all your angling excursions.”
Dave Cumber Vets surgeries are located at Unit D1 Link Park, Chickerell Link Road, Weymouth or at 86, Mellstock Avenue, Dorchester.
Full details can be found at the website www.davecumbervets.co.uk or on Facebook at facebook.com/davecumbervets
