The dog choked, how to help him?

The dog choked, how to help him? - briefly

If your dog is choking, immediately open its mouth and check for any obstructions in the throat. To dislodge the object, perform the Heimlich maneuver by applying firm pressure with both hands on either side of the ribcage, just below the last rib.

The dog choked, how to help him? - in detail

If your dog is choking, immediate action is crucial. Here are the steps you should follow:

1. Assess the Situation: Look for signs of choking such as pawing at the mouth, drooling, difficulty breathing, panic, or a blue-tinged tongue and gums. If your dog exhibits these symptoms, it's an emergency.

2. Do Not Attempt to Remove the Object Manually: Unlike humans, dogs cannot dislodge foreign objects by coughing. Trying to remove the object manually could push it further down or cause injury.

3. Perform the Heimlich Maneuver: If your dog is small (less than 30 pounds), you can perform the Heimlich maneuver:

   • Hold your dog upright with one hand supporting the chest and the other wrapped around the abdomen, just below the ribcage.
   • Make a fist with your hand on the abdomen and apply firm, quick pressure in an upward motion towards the spine.
   • Repeat this process 3-5 times, checking after each attempt to see if the object has been dislodged.

4. For Larger Dogs: If your dog is large, you can use a different technique:

   • Hold your dog upright and support its back end with one hand while wrapping your other arm around its abdomen just below the ribcage.
   • Apply quick, firm pressure using the weight of your body to push up against the spine.
   • Repeat this process 3-5 times, checking after each attempt for any dislodged object.

5. Check the Mouth: After attempting the Heimlich maneuver, open your dog's mouth and check for the foreign object. If you can see it, carefully remove it with your fingers or tweezers. Be cautious not to push it further back.

6. Perform CPR if Necessary: If the object is still lodged and your dog is unconscious, perform CPR:

   • Lay your dog on its side and extend its neck to open the airway.
   • Close your dog's mouth and breathe into its nostrils once every 3 seconds.
   • Check for a heartbeat by feeling for a pulse on the inside of the thigh, just below the inguinal region (where the leg meets the body). If there is no heartbeat, perform chest compressions: place one hand over the other and press firmly downward on the widest part of the ribcage.
   • Continue CPR until your dog regains consciousness or you reach a veterinary clinic.

7. Seek Professional Help: Even if you successfully remove the object, it is crucial to take your dog to a veterinarian immediately. Internal damage can occur even if there are no visible injuries.

8. Prevent Future Incidents: Keep small objects and food that could pose a choking hazard out of reach from your dog. Regularly check toys for any loose or broken parts.

In an emergency, staying calm and acting quickly can save your dog's life. Always be prepared and know the steps to take if your dog is choking.