Dog rushed to Merton hospital after swallowing fish hook

Jack Russell terrier Armarni was rushed into the Blue Cross animal hospital in Merton, by his owner after he swallowed a fish hook near a lake in Dorking.

X-rays showed the large metal hook in Armarni’s stomach and vets had to remove it using an endoscope while he was under general anaesthetic.

Vets said Armarni was lucky as the hook could have caused irreparable damage to his throat and stomach - after it became embedded in his jaw.

Following his operation, Armarni was able to go home and has made a full recovery.

Blue Cross has warned dog owners to be vigilant when out on walks.

It has also called on fishermen to ensure they keep fishing tackle and bait nearby and also to dispose of it properly afterwards to prevent such incidents.

Elise Smith, Deputy Nurse Manager at Blue Cross animal hospital in Merton, said: “Armarni was sedated and thanks to the X-rays we were able to quickly locate the hook and remove it.

“He was very lucky as it could have caused irreparable damage to his oesophagus and could have proved fatal.

“Dog walkers should be vigilant when out on walks while fishermen should think to dispose of their fishing tackle in a responsible manner as it can be dangerous to not only dogs out walking but other wildlife too.”