My Dog Ate an Ornament: What Do I Do? 

The holiday season is a magical time filled with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and, of course, the curiosity of your four-legged family members. For many pet owners, the sight of a sparkling Christmas tree is a holiday staple—but for dogs, it can also look like a treasure trove of new “toys” to investigate. If your pup’s playful nature has led them to chew on or swallow an ornament, you might feel a mix of panic and uncertainty. The team from Broad Ripple Animal Clinic in Indianapolis is here to provide clarity and reassurance so you can navigate this unexpected holiday hiccup with confidence.

Why Dogs Eat Ornaments

Dogs are naturally curious, and the colorful, dangling decorations on a Christmas tree can seem like irresistible toys. Ornaments often attract dogs because of their shiny surfaces, intriguing shapes, or even enticing scents. Some ornaments, like those made from salt dough or containing edible components, can smell like a treat, making them even more appealing to your pet. Glass, plastic, or other materials can cause injuries to their mouths, digestive tract, or internal organs if ingested. If you notice your dog showing an unusual interest in your holiday decorations, it’s a good idea to monitor them closely or rearrange your setup to keep items out of reach.

What Are Common Risks of a Dog Eating an Ornament? 

When a dog eats an ornament, several risks come into play depending on the type of ornament and how much of it was ingested. 

Risk of Internal Injuries

Glass ornaments are particularly dangerous because they can break into sharp pieces, potentially cutting your dog’s mouth, esophagus, stomach, or intestines. Even small shards can lead to internal bleeding or perforations, which may require surgical intervention.

Digestive Blockages

Non-digestible materials like plastic, metal hooks, or large pieces of ornaments can cause blockages in the digestive tract. Signs of a blockage include vomiting, lack of appetite, lethargy, and difficulty passing stools. A blockage is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention from a veterinarian.

Toxic Components

Some ornaments, such as those made of salt dough, can contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs. Salt dough ornaments, for example, have a high salt content that can lead to salt poisoning, causing symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst, and seizures. Painted or glittered ornaments might also contain harmful chemicals.

Risk of Choking

If your dog attempts to swallow a whole ornament or a large fragment, it could become lodged in their throat, leading to choking. This can cause breathing difficulties and requires immediate action to prevent a potentially life-threatening situation.

How to Know If Your Dog Ate an Ornament

If you didn’t witness your dog eating an ornament but suspect they might have, watch for certain signs that indicate ingestion or injury. Symptoms can vary depending on the type of ornament and how your dog’s body reacts to it.

• Drooling or pawing at the mouth
• Vomiting or gagging
• Bloody saliva, vomit, or stool
• Loss of appetite or lethargy
• Difficulty breathing

If you notice any of these symptoms or suspect your dog has ingested an ornament, contact your veterinarian at Broad Ripple Animal Clinic immediately.

What To Do If Your Dog Ate an Ornament

If you know or suspect that your dog ate an ornament, follow these steps to ensure their safety:

Step 1: Stay Calm

Panicking can make it harder to assess the situation and take quick action. Take a deep breath and focus on observing your dog’s behavior for any signs of distress.

Step 2: Inspect the Area

Look around for evidence of the missing ornament. Determine what type of material it was made of and whether there are any sharp or toxic components. This information can help your veterinarian provide guidance.

Step 3: Avoid Inducing Vomiting

Inducing vomiting can sometimes worsen the situation, especially if the ornament contains sharp fragments that could cause further damage as they come back up. Never attempt this step unless explicitly directed by your veterinarian.

Step 4: Contact Your Veterinarian

Reach out to Broad Ripple Animal Clinic at (317) 257-5334 for guidance. Provide detailed information about what your dog ate and describe their symptoms. Your veterinarian may recommend bringing your dog in for an examination or monitoring their condition at home, depending on the circumstances.

Diagnosing and Treating Ornament Ingestion

Veterinarians use a combination of diagnostic tools and treatment methods to address cases of ornament ingestion. Here’s what to expect if you bring your dog to the clinic.

Our Diagnostic Process

• Physical Examination: The veterinarian will assess your dog’s overall condition, including signs of pain, bloating, or distress.
• X-rays or Ultrasound: Imaging tests help identify the location of the ornament and assess whether it has caused blockages, perforations, or other complications.
• Blood Tests: These can check for signs of internal bleeding, infection, or salt poisoning if a toxic ornament was ingested.

Potential Treatment Options

Treatment will depend on the severity of the situation:

• Monitoring: In minor cases, your veterinarian may suggest keeping an eye on your dog at home while ensuring they pass the ornament naturally.
• Surgery: Severe cases involving blockages, perforations, or toxic reactions often require surgical intervention to remove the object and repair any damage.

How To Prevent Ornament-Related Emergencies

Prevention is the best way to avoid the stress and risks of ornament ingestion. By taking a few simple precautions, you can create a safer environment for your dog during the holiday season.

• Ensure that the tree is stable and unlikely to tip over if your dog bumps into it.
• Hang ornaments out of your dog’s reach, especially those made of glass or containing edible components.
• Skip salt dough, popcorn, or candy ornaments that might entice your dog to take a bite.
• Keep an eye on your dog when they’re near the tree or other holiday decorations.
• Baby gates or decorative fencing around your tree can help prevent access.

The holiday season should be a time of joy and celebration, not worry about your pet’s health. If your dog ate an ornament, acting quickly can make a significant difference in their safety and recovery. Always contact your veterinarian to assess the situation and determine the best course of action. For professional guidance and care, call Broad Ripple Animal Clinic at (317) 257-5334. Our team is here to help ensure your holidays stay bright and your dog stays healthy.