A VETERINARY practice has warned owners about the dangers of pets playing with stones after a Chihuahua underwent life-saving surgery – twice.

Vets at Laurels Surgery in Runcorn removed a jagged-edged stone from seven-year-old Stan’s intestine after he fell ill and started vomiting.

This marked the second life-saving surgery of the adorable dog's life, as he also required urgent attention at just 20 months old when he ate three pebbles from his family's garden

Stan is owned by Julie and Stephen Hassey, who live in Runcorn.

Julie said: “When he was born, he was the runt of the litter and was in an incubator as a new-born.

“Since then, he has always been very greedy and eats really quickly – it is like he just inhales food.

“The first time this happened, he had to have major surgery to save his life. We took every pebble out of the garden to prevent it from happening again.

“He had the same symptoms again this time, but it was a random stone he had picked up somewhere. It was jagged, so I don’t even know how he swallowed it.

“He is fine now and is back to his old, greedy self.”

Laurel Veterinary Surgery has urged others to also seek veterinary advice if they suspect their pet has swallowed anything suspicious

The main warning signs to look out for are vomiting, tiredness or if they are not eating.

Surgery director Philippa Bradley said: “My advice to anyone whose pet is off their food, quieter in themselves or vomiting, is to contact your veterinary practice for advice.

“These symptoms could be a sign of a foreign object.

“Equally, if you see your pet eat anything it should not, please get in touch.

“Stones and bones can get lodged in their intestines and cause an obstruction, while other things like chocolate or raisins can be toxic.”