AN UPLEATHAM veterinary team has been praised by a grateful owner after saving their young dog’s life following a life-threatening incident in which the pet swallowed a toy containing string, causing serious internal complications.
The team at Clevedale Vets based at Home Farm successfully treated Bella after her owner became concerned when she was unwell, vomiting and not her usual lively self.
On arrival at the practice, Bella – an English bull terrier who is almost two years old – was examined by Clinical Director Nicole McKenzie, who promptly admitted her for further and urgent investigation. Blood tests and an on-site ultrasound scan confirmed she had swallowed a toy containing string lodged in her digestive system.
The string had caused her intestines to bunch together under tension, leading to punctures – a serious and potentially life-threatening condition requiring urgent treatment.
Foreign bodies such as string can cut through the intestines and cause septic peritonitis, a severe and potentially fatal abdominal infection if not treated quickly.
Recognising the urgency, Nicole and her colleague vet Camilla Corvino performed emergency surgery lasting around four hours to save Bella. The complex procedure involved operating on both Bella’s stomach and intestines, successfully removing the string along with a 10cm section of damaged small intestine.
Following the procedure, Bella made an excellent recovery. After an overnight stay and a couple of days of strict rest at home, she was back to her happy, energetic self.
Nicole said: “This was a very serious and challenging case. Foreign bodies such as toys involving string are particularly dangerous because they can cause extensive damage internally in a short space of time.
“In Bella’s case, the situation required urgent surgical intervention, and it was a complex procedure involving delicate areas. These are always high-risk surgeries, but acting quickly gave Bella the best possible chance.
“Cases like Bella’s really highlight how important it is to investigate quickly when a pet really isn’t themselves. The signs can sometimes be non-specific at first, but the underlying issue can be severe.
“It was a real team effort in theatre, and we’re all incredibly pleased to see how well Bella recovered. She’s a superstar.”
Bella’s owner Corrie Laverick from Saltburn said: “It was such a worrying time because she just wasn’t herself at all. The team at Clevedale Vets were amazing from the moment we arrived. They acted so quickly and kept us informed every step of the way.
“We’re so grateful to Nicole, Camilla and everyone involved for saving Bella. She’s back to her usual, lively self – although her toy box has definitely had a clear-out!”
As a light-hearted reward for her bravery, Bella was presented with a certificate after her ordeal -although her owners say she seems less impressed that her toy box has since been thoroughly checked to prevent any future incidents.
The practice which has branches in Guisborough, Whitby and Stokesley as well as Upleatham, provides a wide range of services to support pets’ health and wellbeing, from routine check-ups to emergency and surgical care, ensuring animals receive the expert care and treatment they need when it matters most. The practice is part of part of VetPartners, a group of veterinary practices and animal healthcare businesses across the UK and Europe
The team hope Bella’s story will help raise awareness of the dangers certain toys can pose and encourage owners to regularly check items for wear and tear.
Nicole added a warning for pet owners: “Dogs are naturally inquisitive and will often chew or swallow items they shouldn’t, particularly toys with string or loose parts. These can be extremely hazardous.
“If your pet shows signs such as vomiting, lethargy or changes in behaviour, it’s always best to seek veterinary advice promptly. Early intervention can be lifesaving.”
Pictured: Nicole McKenzie, Small Animal Clinicial Director at Clevedale Vets with Bella and her owner Corrie Laverick