Pet owners have been warned about the dangers of giving bones to their dogs after a spaniel needed surgery to remove a blockage caused by one of the 'treats', having to undergo treatment at Ashby's Woodward Vet.

Six-year-old springer spaniel Max was given a ham bone, which his owner had bought from the pet section of a supermarket.

However, that night Max became restless and stopped drinking, refused his food and kept trying to vomit.

His worried owners took him to Linnaeus-owned Woodward Veterinary Practice in Ashby de la Zouch, where veterinary surgeon Cristina Julia Acosta discovered the blockage.

Spaniel Max is recovering back at home after surgery at Woodward Veterinary Practice in Ashby de la Zouch (Photo: Woodward Vets)

Cristina said: "During examination of Max I could feel a sharp object. We then took bloods and X-rays which revealed a blockage of ingested bones in his stomach and intestines.

"We performed an exploratory laparotomy to remove the bones, which were very sharp and wrapped in a lot of grass.

"Max was in surgery for two hours. He had bones located in different places throughout his digestive system. We were able to successfully remove them all and he is now recovering well at home."

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Max's owner Clare Evans, from Measham, is urging other owners to think twice before giving their dog's bones, and says she will not be buying anymore for Max.  

She said: "This was a ham bone for dogs and I bought it as a nice treat, but it's not worth the risk to your dog's health. 

"Max has made a great recovery and taken everything in his stride. He's a typical spaniel and I hope I can see him back to springing through the fields, digging in the woods and swimming in the lakes before not too long.

"I can't thank Cristina enough. Her team were attentive, honest and we put our full trust in them.  

"We were kept informed before, during and afterwards about Max's welfare and progress." 

Cristina added: "It's not unusual for bones to splinter and damage teeth or even cause blockages, so we advise owners not to risk their dog's health by giving them. Instead, choose safer alternatives such as specially designed chews that pets can enjoy without putting their health at risk." 

For more information about Woodward Veterinary Practice, visit www.woodward-vets.co.uk.