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My dog ate a sewing needle. Is it an emergency? What should I do?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

I think my dog ate a sewing needle. What do I do? Is this serious?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Tomasz Wnuk

Veterinarian

Published on April 3rd, 2015

It may be serious but not necessarily. You should take your dog to your vet to take an x-ray to see where the needle is (it could got stuck in esophagus and it this case it should be removed). If the needle is in the stomach you will have to wait 24-48hrs for the needle to be passed. If in any doubts the second x-ray should be taken. If your dog develops signs of vomiting, vomiting blood, abdominal pain, lack of appetite he will need emergency surgery to remove the needle. However, most of the dogs will pass a needle and surgery is not required.

189Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM
Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident
Published on August 25th, 2018
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! She should be evaluated by a veterinarian as soon as possible. Depending on where it is located at this time in her gastrointestinal system, they may still be able to remove it via endoscopy. Otherwise, surgery may be needed. Keeping my fingers crossed for her. Good luck and have a good night!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH
Veterinarian
Published on September 17th, 2017
Hi and thanks for your post.

I am sorry to hear this! However, surgery is a good move. An endoscope could be done, but there is risk in puncturing the stomach or esophageal mucosa if the needle is found and brought back up. For objects that are small enough and do not have sharp edges to them, an endoscope would be more supported, but not for a sharp pointy needle.

I hope this helps and I wish you and Brooklyn Riley the best! I hope surgery is a success!

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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