We recently came across several articles in regards to the most unusual surgical cases in Veterinary Medicine. One article in particular came from VPI (Veterinary Pet Insurance Co.) where they reported there were nearly 2,000 foreign body ingestion claims received over the past year.

We thought this article was extremely interesting as most of our "Emergency Exploratory" surgery cases are typically the one's where the first thing out of the pet owner's mouth is, "My dog doesn't eat anything, he doesn't dig in garbages and he doesn't even play with toys." Well, guess again, haha! They can be very sneaky when they want to. It never ceases to amaze us at what our doctors we retrieve!

We've compiled a list of the ones that really stood out to us. Next time your rambunctious new puppy is in the house, or your older, well mannered dog is left inside alone while you are at work, check your floor or reachable furniture and counters to make sure these items are NOT within reach of your pet!

Most Common items ingested by cats and dogs are typically socks, rocks, and towels. Are friendly felines are notorious for finding string and tinsel.

Well, let's look at some even more unusual items. Items even I was shocked at learning were ingested!

bikini

fish hook

dental floss

eye glasses

watch

wool pads

light bulb

Frisbees

Jumper Cables (he had to have been very large!)

baseball

Ink Pen

Purse Clasps

Extension cord

TV remote (What? No American Idol Tonight!)

pine cone

bath bubbles

spare change

Butter.... yes, three sticks to be exact

glue (both elmers and crazy)

high lighter pen

coffee grounds

razor blades

and a hearing aid.

The good news is, all pets that were involved in removing the above items, fully recovered.

The cost of these surgeries can range from $1,500- $3,000 or more!

If you'd like to share your own experience, please leave us a comment and we will share with our readers.

Thank you!