These Dogs Swallowed Amazing Objects in 2014

by
posted on September 19, 2014
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
dogs_ah2015_fs.jpg (62)

Every year the Veterinary Practice News holds an X-ray contest called "They Ate What?" The rules are simple: Animal hospitals compete to see whose patients swallowed the most bizarre objects of the year, as proven by radiographs. The photo results are priceless.

The winner was an exotic frog that consumed 30 small rocks, filling essentially its entire abdomen. I don't know that any frog is worth the price of the ensuing surgery, but hey, I guess some people really love their frogs.

There were a couple bird dog entries, including a German shorthaired pointer awarded second place for swallowing an entire shish kabob skewer. Now that's talent.

Other dogs on the list include a Great Dane, which sucked down a whopping 43 1/2 socks (apparently it got a little full by sock No. 44); a golden retriever that swallowed an intact light bulb; an unidentified breed that consumed an entire flock of rubber duckies; a Chihuahua that ingested nine sewing needles; a pug that chowed down on a quarter and 104 pennies; and plenty more.

Moral of the story? Keep an eye on your bird dog, as animals will eat just about anything. Prevention of this occurrence is of course ideal, but you should also observe your pet for signs of a blockage. Lack of appetite, persistent vomiting or retching, or difficulty going to the bathroom all warrant an immediate trip to the veterinarian. But, look on the bright side, maybe you'll win next year's "They Ate What?" contest.

Latest

BTB 7Mm RUM Lead
BTB 7Mm RUM Lead

Behind the Bullet: 7mm Remington Ultra Magnum

Launching a 160-grain bullet in excess of 3200 fps, the 7mm RUM is among the fastest commercially loaded 7mm cartridges available.

USFWS Debuts 2025-2026 Federal and Junior Duck Stamps

The 2025-2026 Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp—commonly known as the Duck Stamp—became available for purchase on June 27, 2025.

Tested: Work Sharp Professional Precision Adjust Elite Knife Sharpener

Digital Associate Editor walks viewers through the features of the Work Sharp Professional Precision Adjust Elite Knife Sharpener, the perfect tool for a hunter looking to keep all his knives factory sharp season after season.

Recipe: Green Curried Black Bear

Green curry sauce is an excellent base for simmering bear meat, making it flavorful, tender, and safe to consume. Read on for another instant classic recipe from Brad Fenson.

Coyotes to Competitions: An AR-Build for Accuracy

ARs make great coyote guns. But what would the absolute best coyote rifle look like? Digital Associate Editor David Herman builds his take on the best AR for shooters who like to plug coyotes in the winter, and ring steel all summer long.

Pennsylvania Governor Signs Sunday Hunting Bill

Legislation that will fully repeal Pennsylvania’s Sunday hunting ban was signed into law on July 9.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.