My small dog choked, what should I do?

My small dog choked, what should I do? - briefly

If your small dog is choking, act swiftly but calmly. Perform the Heimlich maneuver by wrapping your arms around their chest and applying firm, quick thrusts just below the ribcage until the object is dislodged.

My small dog choked, what should I do? - in detail

If your small dog has choked and you find yourself in this emergency situation, it is crucial to act swiftly and effectively to ensure their safety. Here are the steps you need to follow:

1. Stay Calm: Remain composed; dogs can sense your emotions. A calm demeanor will help your pet stay calm as well.

2. Check for Obstruction: Open your dog's mouth and look for any visible obstructions in the throat or at the base of the tongue. Be careful not to push the object further down if you see it.

3. Perform the Heimlich Maneuver:

   • For small dogs, wrap your arms around their abdomen just behind the ribs and apply firm pressure with quick thrusts inward and upward, as if trying to lift the dog off the ground.
   • Repeat this process 4-5 times.

4. Check Mouth Again: After performing the Heimlich maneuver, open your dog's mouth again to see if the object has been dislodged.

5. If Object is Still Stuck: If the obstruction remains, lay your dog on its side and perform a modified Heimlich maneuver:

   • Place your hands on either side of the abdomen just below the ribs.
   • Apply firm, quick pressure inward and upward.

6. Seek Professional Help: Even if the object is dislodged, it's crucial to take your dog to a veterinarian immediately. Internal damage may not be visible, and a professional can ensure your pet's safety with a thorough examination.

Preventive Measures:

• Keep small or hard objects out of reach.
• Be cautious with toys that can break into smaller pieces.
• Supervise your dog during playtime to avoid potential choking hazards.