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My dog swallowed a needle. Is it safe to wait for it to pass?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 5 months old | 52.91 lbs

My dog has a tiny piece of broken needle stuck in her esophagus, which she is trying to vomit. I have been told that it will come out on its own with a little inflammation( she is salivating more then usual and she saliva is thick and slimy), and since she is not eating properly so I have been asked to give her saline water twice daily for 5 days with antibiotics, and wait for the time being. What should I do?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 13th, 2019

This is very unusual. I'm sorry this happened. I suggest you have the vet remove the needle with an endoscope if possible. I doubt it will work it's way out on it's own. Not to mention the esophagus is a very unforgiving organ and any inflammation will cause permanent strictures (narrowing) so the longer you wait the worse it will be.

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