We'd just sat down to dinner, when I realised one of the dogs had gone in the bin. Although it was practically empty I realised one of them had eaten the elasticted string which wraps up joints of beef :-(, now worried, don't know whether to let nature take it's course and see if it comes out the other end, or to ring the vets up, probably incur some ridulous call out charge and see if they'll make them bring up whats in their stomach. What do you think I should do?? They're both quite happy at present, but I'm worried about it getting wound round the intestine and having to have a large operation down the line

I think I would have the dog checked over in the morning, just for your peace of mind.  But I bet it just gets pooed out!

Thanks, that's what I've been thinking. Bless 'em, they're both lying at my feet, fast asleep with not a care in the world, and here's me worried. Worse than kids, I'm sure :-)

I'd probably call the energency vets and ask their opinion, they wont want to come out at this time of night unless absolutely needed but at least if it is needed he can be made sick as in the morning it would be too late and you'll have no choice but to let nature take it's course.  I'd always call and check with the vet for things like that - a call doesn't cost anything.  Sure he'll be fine though :-)