My dog has something stuck in its throat and is coughing, how can I help? - briefly
If your dog is coughing due to something stuck in its throat, remain calm and act quickly. Immediately contact your veterinarian or an emergency pet clinic for guidance, as they can provide the most appropriate and safe advice tailored to your dog's specific situation.
My dog has something stuck in its throat and is coughing, how can I help? - in detail
If a dog has something stuck in its throat and is coughing, it is a serious situation that requires immediate attention. The first step is to remain calm, as panicking can exacerbate the situation and cause further distress to the animal. Assess the dog's condition carefully. If the dog is conscious and able to breathe, though struggling, it is crucial to act swiftly but carefully.
Observe the dog's behavior. If the dog is pawing at its mouth, drooling excessively, or making choking sounds, it is likely that an object is lodged in its throat. Do not attempt to remove the object with your fingers, as this can push it further down the throat or cause the dog to bite in panic. Instead, follow these steps:
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Open the Dog's Mouth: Gently but firmly open the dog's mouth by holding its muzzle with one hand and lifting the upper jaw with the other. Be cautious, as the dog may try to bite due to fear and discomfort.
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Check the Throat: Look into the dog's throat to see if the object is visible. If it is, use a pair of tweezers or pliers to carefully remove it. Ensure that the dog's head is pointing downwards to prevent the object from being pushed further down the throat.
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Perform the Heimlich Maneuver: If the object is not visible or cannot be removed, perform the canine Heimlich maneuver. Stand behind the dog and wrap your arms around its abdomen, just below the ribcage. Make a fist with one hand and place it just below the ribcage. Grasp your fist with the other hand and press inward and upward in a quick, thrusting motion. Repeat this motion until the object is dislodged. If the dog is small, you may need to perform the maneuver while the dog is lying on its side.
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Seek Veterinary Help: Even if the object is successfully removed, it is essential to take the dog to a veterinarian immediately. The veterinarian will examine the dog for any injuries to the throat or esophagus and ensure that no further complications arise. The dog may require medications or further treatment to prevent infection or other issues.
If the dog becomes unconscious or stops breathing, perform CPR immediately. Place the dog on its side and check for a heartbeat. If there is no heartbeat, begin chest compressions by pressing down on the chest with both hands, using a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. After 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths by closing the dog's mouth and blowing into its nostrils until the chest rises. Continue this cycle until the dog regains consciousness or veterinary help arrives.
Always remember that prevention is key. Keep small objects, toys with small parts, and other potential choking hazards out of reach of pets. Regularly inspect toys and other items for signs of wear and tear that could lead to small parts becoming detached. By taking these precautions, you can help ensure the safety and well-being of your dog.