What happens if a puppy swallows a needle?

When a puppy swallows a needle, it may lacerate the intestines or blood vessels, causing continuous bleeding and anemia. The needle can also become lodged in the esophagus, making it impossible for the dog to swallow, causing breathing difficulty, and even putting its life at risk.

If the dog is lucky, it may pass the needle on its own. After a puppy swallows a needle, the owner should first withhold food and water to avoid stimulating intestinal movement, which could make the needle shift and cause more damage.

Check the dog’s stool over the next two days. If the needle does not pass, take the dog to a veterinary hospital promptly for an X-ray to locate the needle, then have it removed surgically.