A one-year-old French bulldog named Lola narrowly escaped serious harm after swallowing an eight-inch steel styling comb. The incident occurred earlier this month, sending Lola’s owner, Zoe Parton, into a frantic search for help as her pet showed signs of distress, including choking and difficulty standing.
Zoe, a 36-year-old hairdresser from Stockport, immediately took Lola to a local vet, who quickly referred the pup to Northwest Veterinary Specialists (NWVS) in Sutton Weaver for further treatment. An endoscopy and X-rays revealed that the comb, lodged deep in Lola’s oesophagus, was dangerously close to piercing her internal organs.
Vets Luca Motta and Harry Warwick worked together to carefully remove the comb using an endoscope, a procedure that avoided the need for surgery. Despite the comb’s sharp steel handle, which could have caused severe damage to Lola’s internal organs, the young dog came home with nothing more than a sore throat.
“The comb could have done serious harm, or worse, but Lola was incredibly lucky,” said a relieved Zoe. “It didn’t even have any teeth marks on it, so she must have swallowed it whole without chewing.”
The unusual incident unfolded at Zoe’s home two weeks ago when Lola began choking and exhibiting symptoms of neck and shoulder pain. Despite having all her hairdressing equipment safely locked away, Zoe was puzzled as to how Lola managed to get hold of the comb.
“This has been such a crazy incident, I’ve been telling everyone about it,” Zoe added. “It’s a truly remarkable story.”
Vet Luca Motta explained, “Lola’s pain and weakness led us to perform X-rays, which revealed the comb lodged in her oesophagus. The location was precarious, as the sharp metal tip was pressing against the oesophagus, potentially causing significant damage.”
Fellow vet Harry Warwick detailed the challenges of removing the comb, stating, “The comb was around eight inches long and lodged in a tricky position. The sharp point was dangerously close to piercing the oesophagus, but with careful maneuvering, we managed to remove it safely.”
Lola’s condition improved immediately after the procedure, and she was able to eat comfortably the same evening. She was discharged the following day, with no lasting effects from the ordeal.