If the dog choked and coughs? - briefly
If your dog is choking and coughing, it is a serious emergency that requires immediate action. Quickly perform the Heimlich maneuver or use a pet-specific first aid kit if available.
If the dog choked and coughs? - in detail
If your dog is choking and coughing, it is crucial to remain calm and take immediate action. Choking occurs when an object blocks the airway, preventing oxygen from reaching the lungs. Here are the steps you should follow:
-
Assess the Situation: First, observe if your dog is indeed choking. Signs include coughing, gagging, pawing at the mouth, difficulty breathing, or a blue tinge around the mouth and gums. If you see any of these signs, act quickly.
-
Open the Mouth: Gently but firmly grasp your dog's muzzle from the top and bottom with both hands. Lift the upper lip over the teeth while pressing the lower jaw downwards to open the mouth wide. Be cautious to avoid being bitten if your dog is panicked or in pain.
-
Inspect for Obstructions: Look into your dog's mouth and throat for any visible obstructions. If you can see something, try to remove it with your fingers or tweezers. Never blindly stick your hand into the throat as this could push the object further down.
-
Perform Back Blows: If you cannot see the obstruction or are unable to remove it, perform back blows. Hold your dog firmly around the chest with one arm and use the other hand to deliver five sharp blows between the shoulder blades. This can help dislodge the object.
-
Abdominal Thrusts: If back blows do not work, you can try abdominal thrusts. Place your dog on its side, position yourself behind it, and wrap your arms around the abdomen just below the rib cage. Make a fist with one hand and place it between the belly button and the rib cage. With the other hand, grab your fist and pull sharply inward and upward in a smooth motion. Repeat this process several times if necessary.
-
Seek Veterinary Care: After attempting to dislodge the object, immediately take your dog to a veterinarian. Even if you successfully remove the obstruction, there could be internal damage that requires professional attention.
Prevention Tips:
- Keep small objects and potential choking hazards out of reach.
- Supervise your dog when it is chewing on toys or bones.
- Ensure that any food given to your dog is appropriately sized and safe for consumption.
By following these steps, you can increase the chances of successfully helping your dog if it ever finds itself in a choking situation.