This Pet Owner Thought It Was Just the Zoomies—Until the Vet Showed Them the X-Ray

Think zoomies are harmless? One pet owner's routine turned into a vet emergency. Discover what every pet parent should know in this must-read story.

If you're a pet owner, you’ve probably seen your dog or cat suddenly bolt around the room like they’ve been struck by lightning. Most of us smile and think, “Ah, the zoomies.” But not all zoomies are created equal.

Meet Sarah and her 3-year-old Labrador, Milo. One night, Milo was dashing around the living room as usual—tail wagging, furniture narrowly avoided, energy off the charts. It was cute... until he stopped abruptly and started limping.

Sarah thought he’d twisted his paw or slipped. But by morning, Milo could barely move. Concerned, she rushed him to the vet, expecting a sprain at worst.

What the X-ray showed? A swallowed hair tie. Not one. Six.

Milo had been snacking on small objects when no one was looking. His bursts of energy weren’t just zoomies—they were signs of stomach discomfort and stress.

The vet said Sarah caught it just in time. Had she waited, Milo might have needed surgery—or worse.

What You Can Learn from Milo's Story:

• Not all pet behaviors are as harmless as they seem.

• Keep small items out of reach—hair ties, socks, even rubber bands.

• Watch for subtle changes in play, energy, and posture.

• If something feels off, don’t wait. Trust your gut and call the vet.

Final Thought:
Zoomies should be fun—but if your pet’s behavior suddenly shifts, don’t just laugh it off. It might be more than just excitement.

Bonus Tip:
Keep a pet-safe toy box filled with chew-safe distractions to avoid these situations. At Pet N Pet, we always recommend pairing fun with safety.