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What to do if my dog ate candy wrappers and I fear a blockage?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Jack Russell Terrier | Female | spayed | 13 years and 4 months old | 18 lbs

My 18lb Jack Russell ate a handful of candy wrappers. Is there anything I can do to help her pass this as I am nervous about a blockage.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 7th, 2018

Fortunately, these small wrapers do not easily cause blockages, but unfortunately there is nothing that can be given to prevent a potential blockage. It's also not advised to give anything like a laxative, because this can be dangerous in a potential blockage. The only thing you can do is wait to see if it passes OK. Normal GI transit time is 3-5 days for such things. During this time you would just be waiting to see if she has any signs of an obstruction. Signs of an obstructions are vomiting, not defecating, acting very painful/depressed and a decrease in appetite. If you notice these signs, then Betty would need to go to the vet immediately for emergency surgery.  I hope that helps and all is well with Betty.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 19th, 2018

    That's not good that Baby Girl ate a candy wrapper! Typically these do not cause a problem, and usually pass through the GI tract. It can take up to 72 hours for them to pass however. It is concerning she won't eat today, and I'm wondering if the candy wrapper is upsetting her stomach. Try offering her a bland diet of boiled white meat chicken (no bones) and white rice in small amounts several times a day for a couple of days. If she eat this, then slowly add back in her normal diet. Should she refuse to eat this bland diet, then I would take her into the vet first thing in the morning. Best of luck, I hope this helps!

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