How to help a dog when it is choking? - briefly
If a dog is choking, immediate action is crucial. Quickly assess the situation and remove any visible obstruction from the dog's mouth or throat using your fingers or pliers. If the object is not visible or cannot be removed, perform the Heimlich maneuver by placing your arms around the dog's abdomen and applying quick, upward thrusts until the object is dislodged. If the dog becomes unconscious, lay it on its side and administer rescue breaths and chest compressions.
To perform rescue breaths:
- Close the dog's mouth and breathe into its nose until the chest rises.
- Administer 10-12 breaths per minute for small dogs or 4-5 breaths per minute for large dogs.
To perform chest compressions:
- Place your hands over the dog's heart and compress the chest at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
- For small dogs, use one hand; for large dogs, use both hands.
If the dog does not respond after several minutes, seek immediate veterinary assistance. It is essential to remain calm and act swiftly to increase the chances of a successful outcome.
How to help a dog when it is choking? - in detail
Choking in dogs is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. The first step in assisting a choking dog is to remain calm and assess the situation quickly. Observe the dog to confirm that it is indeed choking. Signs of choking include pawing at the mouth, excessive drooling, distressed behavior, difficulty breathing, and a blue tint to the tongue or gums. If the dog is conscious and you can see the object blocking the airway, try to remove it carefully with your fingers. Be cautious, as the dog may bite out of panic. If the object is not visible or cannot be removed safely, proceed with the Heimlich maneuver.
For small dogs, place the dog on its side and use both hands to apply firm, quick pressures just below the ribcage. For larger dogs, stand behind the dog and place your arms around its abdomen. Make a fist and place it just below the ribcage, then grasp your fist with your other hand and apply quick, upward thrusts. Perform these thrusts until the object is dislodged and the dog can breathe normally.
If the dog becomes unconscious, place it on a flat surface and open its mouth to check for any visible obstructions. If an object is seen, attempt to remove it. If the object is not visible, perform CPR. For small dogs, place your hands on either side of the chest and compress it firmly and quickly about 30 times, then give two rescue breaths by covering the dog's nose and mouth with your mouth and blowing gently. For larger dogs, use the palm of one hand to compress the chest in the same manner. Continue CPR until the dog regains consciousness or veterinary help arrives.
It is crucial to seek veterinary care as soon as possible, even if the dog seems to have recovered. The veterinarian can assess for any damage to the throat or airway and provide appropriate treatment. Additionally, they can offer guidance on preventing future choking incidents by identifying potential hazards in the dog's environment.
Prevention is always better than cure. Ensure that small toys, bones, and other objects that could pose a choking hazard are kept out of the dog's reach. Supervise your dog during playtime and meals to intervene quickly if any issues arise. Regular veterinary check-ups can also help in maintaining your dog's overall health and identifying potential risks early.