How to help a dog who is choking? - briefly
If your dog is choking, first check its mouth for any visible obstructions and try to remove them using your fingers or tweezers. If you cannot see or reach the object, perform the Heimlich maneuver by placing both hands on either side of your dog's abdomen just below the ribcage and apply firm, quick pressure.
How to help a dog who is choking? - in detail
If your dog is choking, immediate action is crucial. Here's how you can help:
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Stay Calm: Dogs are very perceptive and can sense if you're anxious. Remaining calm will help your dog stay calm as well.
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Check for Obstructions: Look inside your dog's mouth to see if there's an obvious obstruction. If it's a small object, like a piece of food or toy, try to gently remove it using your fingers or tweezers. Never use your hands if the object is sharp or could cause further injury.
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Heimlich Maneuver: If you can't see an obstruction or can't remove it, you may need to perform the Heimlich maneuver. Here's how:
- For small dogs (under 30 lbs): Hold your dog like a baby, with one hand supporting the chest and the other hand giving firm thrusts to the ribcage, similar to CPR compressions.
- For large dogs (over 30 lbs): Stand or kneel behind your dog. Place your arms around their waist, just behind the ribcage. Make a fist with one hand and place it right below the last rib. Grasp that fist with your other hand and give quick, firm thrusts inward and upward, as if trying to lift your dog off the ground.
- Repeat these thrusts 3-5 times, then check your dog's mouth again for the obstruction. If it's still not dislodged, continue with the Heimlich maneuver until the object is expelled or professional help arrives.
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CPR: If your dog becomes unconscious and you can't feel a heartbeat, begin CPR immediately. Place your dog on its side, extend the neck to open the airway, and perform chest compressions as described above. After every 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths by gently closing your dog's mouth and breathing into its nose until you see the chest rise.
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Seek Professional Help: Even if you manage to dislodge the obstruction, it's essential to take your dog to a vet immediately. The object could have caused internal damage, and your vet can ensure your dog is safe and monitor for any complications.
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Prevention: To prevent choking in the future, keep small objects and toys out of reach, supervise your dog when they're chewing or playing with toys, and consider training your dog to "drop it" on command.