GI Obstruction

In this episode I follow up from episode 21 on the corn cob incident. Here I explain the possible ramifications from an animal swallowing a corn cob or other "foreign body". The damage caused by a foreign body can lead to various clinical signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, inappetance (not eating), to straining to defecate and anorexia. If not treated, this process and the resulting clinical signs can be fatal. Sometimes even with the appropriate treatment, the outcome for an animal is not good.Originally I wanted to discuss the difference between a thrombosis vs embolism. I then thought, I hadn't thoroughly explained the possible consequences of a GI obstruction. So talking about obstructions is a terrific lead in to a discussion on thrombosis/embolism. As I completed the GI obstruction portion of the podcast, I decided to make this a 2 part episode. The next episode will cover the thrombosis/embolism discussion.In this episode I talk a bit about the documentary by Werner Herzog, "Grizzly Man". It was released in about 2005, so I am quite late to the party. Nevertheless, I see a troubled human being projecting his needs on to grizzly bears and the tragic outcome. I see similarities between this man and people that hoard or also "rescue" particular animals. I wonder if the rescuers are really helping the animals or mostly themselves and are they truly benefiting the animals. You must decide for yourself.If you suspect that your pet has swallowed a foreign body, please contact your veterinarian or local emergency clinic for veterinary care.Thank you and see you again.