Injury related to evironmental erichment in a dog (Canis familiaris): Gastric foreign body (2009)

Veeder, C. L., Taylor, D. K.

Abstract

A pregnant 7-y-old Beagle crossbred dog (Canis familiaris) presented with clinical signs of lethargy, dehydration, and occasional vomiting. The dog was managed with fluids, antibiotics, and supportive care for several days in an effort to maintain the pregnancy. The bitch aborted the pups at approximately 50 d of gestation and was euthanized due to her poor reproductive performance and age. Necropsy revealed a compact mass of plastic pieces in the pylorus of the stomach. The gastric foreign body was discovered to be the vinyl covering of a bed that was in the dog's run as part of the environmental enrichment program for this animal. The use of that type of dog bed was discontinued. This case emphasizes that any type of enrichment can cause harm and the risks must be assessed carefully before implementing any enrichment device.