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My dog ate a sock, threw it up, but is still sick. Is it an emergency?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | unneutered | 4 months and 7 days old | 50 lbs

My dog recently ate a sock last night and threw it up today. Since he’s threw up the sock, he keeps vomiting and is very weak, lazy. and inattentive. He’s about 5 months and eats 3 times a day but hasn’t had an appetite to eat at all today, just to drink water. I’m unable to seek medical attention from his vet right now. I don’t know if I should be worried or should have any ideas that he might die because of the sock and the way he is currently acting.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on May 15th, 2018

Poor Rocko! From your description, I would be very concerned that he may still have part of the sock, or some other foreign object, stuck in his stomach or intestines. This problem generally causes repeated episodes of vomiting, loss of appetite, and lethargy. Unfortunately, if he does have an intestinal blockage, this is a life-threatening problem that needs emergency surgery - there is nothing you can do at home to treat it. So I would focus on finding a way to get him in to see a vet as soon as possible. If costs are a concern, you can see if there is a low-cost SPCA clinic in your area that could help, or apply online for Care Credit, which is a payment plan accepted by most veterinary clinics: www.carecredit.com

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