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My dog ate wood chips, hasn't pooped in 24 hours. Is it a blockage?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Wirehaired Pointing Griffon | Male | neutered | 1 year and 1 month old | 32 lbs

My dog ate pieces of a branch and some bark. He had diarrhea for two days and vomited twice (bile with wood chips). He keeps his food and water and is still active. We talked to the vet and switched to a special food and fortiflora fortiflor. Plus we give him vaseline to help pass the chips. He hasn't pooped in 24h. Is this normal or is there a blockage from the wood chips? He still wants to eat and drink. How long should i wait before taking him to the vet? Thank you for your help!

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on February 27th, 2018

Considering your description I would say other 24 even 48 hours. The important clinical signs to monitor at this stage are appetite (must remain good), mental status (bright), and being comfortable (not any pain or discomfort especially on abdominal palpation or when walked around or laying down). At this stage there still good chances he will pass everything without any obstruction, so I would recommend just to keep monitoring him. Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

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    Answered By Ana M, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 3rd, 2018

    Thank you for submitting your question regarding Finn. If he continues to act normal, but does not defecate then he will need to see his veterinarian tomorrow. Wood will not show up well on an x-ray, but it could cause a change in gas patterns in the intestine if it is causing a blockage. If he refuses food or starts to vomit, then he will need to see an emergency veterinarian today. In the meantime, observe him closely and offer small frequent amounts of food and water. I hope this information helps!

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