Clinic Case of the Month

Alien Abduction

Pixie is an adorable six month Yorkshire terrier cross who decided to try and reverse the tables on alien abduction.

Earlier this month, Pixie presented to the clinic with lethargy and vomiting. Doctor Amy’s first major clue to the issue was the small piece of rope toy that had been vomited up the night previously. Then, when feeling Pixie’s abdomen, it became obvious that there was something in the gastrointestinal tract that shouldn’t be there.

On ultrasound, there was obviously something unusual in the intestines. X-rays showed an opaque object that definitely shouldn’t be there! See if you can find the object in the x-ray posted.

With as close to confirmation as possible, Pixie was prepped for an exploratory laparotomy (where the abdominal cavity is opened and examined). The offending object was quickly identified within the intestines and removed. Once out, Pixie was quickly in recovery where she remained with us until her fever broke and she was bright and happy.

The offending object was a part of her alien toy.

Gastrointestinal obstruction is a serious medical emergency that often needs major abdominal surgery to correct. Obstructions can be partial, allowing some food and fluid to pass, or complete. Symptoms are often vague but typically include excessive vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea or difficulty defecating, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. Complications such as intestinal perforation (where the intestines is pierced), peritonitis (severe inflammation), sepsis, and death can occur if treatment is not received.

Pixie has since made a full recovery and will hopefully be letting all aliens return to their spaceship!