If a dog drowns, what? - briefly
If a dog drowns, it is crucial to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) immediately. This involves compressing the chest and ensuring the airway remains clear until professional help arrives.
If a dog drowns, what? - in detail
If a dog becomes submerged in water and is unable to swim to safety, several critical factors come into play. Firstly, it's important to understand that dogs can indeed drown, contrary to popular belief that they are natural swimmers. Drowning in dogs occurs when their airways become filled with water, preventing them from breathing oxygen. This can happen quickly, especially if the dog is exhausted or trapped underwater for an extended period.
When a dog drowns, several physiological changes occur. Initially, the dog will struggle to keep its head above water, paddling frantically in an attempt to stay afloat. If it cannot reach the surface, it will eventually stop moving and become unresponsive. At this point, the dog's heart rate will slow significantly, and brain damage can begin within just a few minutes due to lack of oxygen.
If the dog is rescued quickly enough, there are several steps that can be taken to attempt resuscitation. Firstly, ensure that both you and the dog are safe from further danger in the water. Extract the dog from the water as soon as possible and lay it on a flat surface. Check for any obstructions in its airway, such as vomit or foreign objects, and clear them if necessary.
Next, perform artificial respiration by placing your hands on either side of the dog's chest and applying firm pressure to compress the lungs and force water out. This should be done at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute for dogs. After several sets of compressions, check for signs of breathing or a heartbeat. If there are no signs, continue with compressions while also attempting mouth-to-snout resuscitation to deliver oxygen directly into the dog's lungs.
It is crucial to note that even if resuscitation efforts are successful and the dog begins to breathe again, permanent brain damage can still occur if the dog was submerged for too long. In such cases, it is essential to seek immediate veterinary care to assess the extent of any potential injuries or complications.
Prevention is key when it comes to dog drowning. Always supervise your dog around water, and consider using a life jacket if you are taking your dog on a boat or into deep water. Additionally, teach your dog how to swim if it is not a natural swimmer, and ensure that any pools or ponds in your yard have secure fencing to prevent accidental drowning.
In summary, while dogs can drown, prompt action and knowledge of resuscitation techniques can greatly improve their chances of survival. However, prevention remains the best strategy to keep your dog safe around water.