The dog choked and can't breathe, what to do? - briefly
If a dog is choking and unable to breathe, immediate action is crucial. Perform the Heimlich maneuver by placing your arms around the dog's abdomen and applying quick, upward thrusts until the object is dislodged. If the dog is small, place it on its back and apply gentle pressure just below the ribcage. If the dog becomes unconscious, begin CPR and seek veterinary assistance immediately.
Here are the steps to follow:
- For large dogs: Place your arms around the dog's abdomen, just behind the ribcage. Make a fist with one hand and grasp it with the other hand. Press into the dog's abdomen with quick, upward thrusts.
- For small dogs: Place the dog on its back and apply gentle pressure just below the ribcage, using your fingers or the heel of your hand.
- If the dog becomes unconscious: Lay the dog on its side and perform CPR. Compress the chest at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute, followed by two rescue breaths. Seek veterinary assistance immediately.
The dog choked and can't breathe, what to do? - in detail
When a dog is choking and unable to breathe, immediate and correct action is crucial to save its life. Choking in dogs can be caused by various objects such as toys, bones, or pieces of food lodged in the throat or windpipe. Recognizing the signs of choking and knowing how to respond can make a significant difference in the outcome.
First, assess the situation calmly. If the dog is conscious but choking, it may paw at its mouth, drool excessively, or make gagging sounds. The dog might also exhibit panic, which can be evident through wide eyes, restlessness, or attempts to scratch at the throat. If the dog is unconscious, it will not respond to stimuli and may collapse.
For a conscious dog, attempt to open its mouth carefully and look for any visible obstructions. If you can see the object, try to remove it gently using your fingers or tweezers. Be cautious not to push the object further down the throat. If the object is not visible or cannot be safely removed, proceed to the Heimlich maneuver for dogs.
To perform the Heimlich maneuver, place the dog on its side. If the dog is small, you can hold it with its back against your chest. For larger dogs, stand behind them and place your arms around their abdomen. Locate the soft area just behind the ribcage. Apply firm, quick upward thrusts with your hands or fists, similar to performing CPR on a human. The goal is to create enough pressure to dislodge the object. Perform these thrusts until the object is expelled or the dog becomes unconscious.
If the dog becomes unconscious, immediately begin CPR. Place the dog on a flat surface and check for a heartbeat and breathing. If there is no heartbeat, perform chest compressions by placing your hands over the heart area and compressing the chest at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. After 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths by closing the dog's mouth and breathing into its nose until you see the chest rise. Continue this cycle of 30 compressions and two breaths until the dog regains consciousness or veterinary help arrives.
Throughout the process, remain calm and focused. Panic can escalate the situation and make it more difficult to administer the necessary aid. If possible, have someone else call a veterinarian or an emergency veterinary clinic for further instructions and to prepare for the dog's arrival.
Once the object is removed and the dog is breathing normally, monitor its condition closely. Even if the dog seems to have recovered, it is essential to seek veterinary care. The veterinarian will examine the dog for any internal damage or residual effects from the choking incident. They may also recommend follow-up care to ensure the dog's full recovery.
Prevention is always better than cure. To minimize the risk of choking, ensure that small toys, bones, and other potential hazards are kept out of the dog's reach. Supervise the dog during playtime and mealtime, and choose appropriate toys and treats that are safe and size-appropriate for the dog. Regular veterinary check-ups can also help identify any underlying issues that might increase the risk of choking.
In summary, recognizing the signs of choking and knowing how to perform the Heimlich maneuver and CPR can save a dog's life. Stay calm, act quickly, and seek veterinary care as soon as possible. Prevention through careful supervision and choosing safe toys and treats can help reduce the risk of choking incidents.