Lead Ammunition Harms More Than Its Intended Target

Scattered lead fragments could flow into the blood and cause gastrointestinal and neurologic toxicity.
Lead Ammunition Harms More Than Its Intended Target
A hunting dog injured by lead ammunition needs immediate care. ABO PHOTOGRAPHY/Shutterstock
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Q: While hunting, I accidentally shot my dog, Buck, with lead shot. He seems to be OK, but I’m worried he might develop lead poisoning and die. I’m too embarrassed to take him to the veterinarian, so I'd appreciate your advice.
A: Take Buck to his veterinarian, who has undoubtedly seen dogs and cats with similar injuries. At the very least, Buck is probably in pain, as you would be if you'd been shot, so he needs immediate care.
Lee Pickett
Lee Pickett
Author
Lee Pickett, VMD, practices companion animal medicine in North Carolina. Contact her at AskTheVet.pet. Copyright 2024 Lee Pickett, VMD. Distributed by Creators.com