As a pet owner, you know your dog may not always make the best choices. They could see something like the remote control and think that it looks like a fun toy to chew on. Next thing you know, the remote is destroyed, and the batteries are missing. Where do you go from there?

Why Are Batteries Dangerous to Dogs?

Batteries can cause severe damage to a dog’s health if swallowed. Listed below are some examples of the effects of ingesting a battery.

• Batteries can cause damage such as bowel obstruction when swallowed by physically blocking the intestine. This may cause serious harm to the dog’s digestive system and cause the dog to be sick. This issue is more probable in a smaller dog or with a bigger battery. A bowel blockage can become life-threatening.

• Electrical circuits may occur in the digestive system’s damp environment, causing damage to the mouth, stomach, or intestines. Even a small hole in the intestines might result from severe burns.

• Lithium, lead, and other heavy metals are used in batteries, as they are very corrosive compounds. Battery acid or other chemicals may flow out of a punctured or shattered battery and either burn or poison the flesh.

What Are the Clinical Signs of Battery Poisoning in Dogs?

In some cases, the clinical signs of battery poisoning begin immediately after they are ingested. Other symptoms may not become evident for many hours. Early-appearing ulcers might worsen for up to 12 hours after reacting with the battery chemicals. The effects of gastroenteritis, infection, and inflammation of the digestive system can cause anxiety. Other clinical signs include stomach discomfort, tarry stools and trouble swallowing.

Treatment

If your dog ate a battery, contact your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline® at (855) 764-7661 immediately. If you can visibly see residue from battery in their mouth it needs to be cleansed thoroughly with tap water for 15-20 minutes to wash away the battery acid. Make sure you are constantly monitoring your dog for the clinical signs of battery poisoning. At the vet office, a physical and oral exam needs to be performed. Your dog may be put through an X-ray to find the battery or other damages. The battery may need to be removed through surgery.

Can My Dog Die from Eating a Battery?

Sadly, death is possible when a dog ingests a battery. Bowel blockages, electrical and chemical burns to the intestines, and heavy metal toxicity may result from eating a battery. Within one day of a stomach or intestinal injury, your dog can be in pain and unable to eat or drink. Make sure to take immediate action if you suspect your dog has battery poisoning.

Call your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline® (855) 764-7661 to help keep your dog healthy and happy.