Ten-year-old dog Alfie had developed a bit of a secret golf ball habit, which was only uncovered when he started throwing up golf balls in his owner's back garden.
A golf ball munching pooch needed a life-saving operation after he secretly wolfing down a staggering 26 of the things while out on walks with his owner.A swift visit to the vet - and a few more vomited up golf balls later - an x ray revealed another 15 golf balls stuck inside his stomach.
Vets operated and found another six hiding in his tummy - bringing the total up to 26.
They also removed rubber gloves, a ball of string and multiple bits of wood from the hungry pooch's stomach.
Mr Taylor, from Westerhope, Newcastle, UK who has owned Alfie since he was a puppy said: "When I came home he was passed out in the back garden, and he only came too when I carried him into the house.
Neil Taylor, 50 regularly walks Alfie, his ten-year-old giant schnauzer through a golf course near their home. But unbeknown to him, Alfie had been gobbling up stray golf balls during their recent walks. They only found out after Alfie became poorly at his doggy day car - and then proceeded to vomit up four golf balls in Mr Taylor's back garden.
"I only have one dog and he's like my son. It was a huge relief when we were given the all clear by the vets." The operation took place on June 16, and Alfie was home two days later - having incurred a $4000 bill.
"He has been recovering well from the operation," he said.
"It's lovely to have him acting like his normal, playful self again.