Lead angling sinker intake by a dog – a case report

Abstract

Gastric foreign bodies are found in dogs and cats of all breeds and ages. However, according to the literature and to routine clinics and hospitals, young animals ingest foreign bodies more commonly than adults. In addition to vomiting, anorexia, depression and abdominal pain may also be present. Radiography is a complementary test method that is most often helpful in diagnosing the presence of these objects. A gastrostomy is indicated when removal of the foreign body cannot be achieved. Lead is a toxic metal that is extremely harmful when absorbed by the body. This work reports the case of a mongrel bitch that ingested large amount of lead parts used as weight in angling. The patient underwent surgery for removal of the foreign material, and failed to show symptoms of heavy metal poisoning.