What should I do if my dog chokes on water? - briefly
If your dog chokes on water, first remain calm and ensure their safety. Gently lift their hindquarters to help drain excess water from their airways.
What should I do if my dog chokes on water? - in detail
If your dog is choking on water, it's crucial to act quickly and calmly to ensure their safety. Here are the steps you should follow:
-
Assess the Situation: Look for signs of choking such as difficulty breathing, pawing at the mouth, or a panicked expression. If your dog is having trouble swallowing water, it may be coughing or gagging repeatedly.
-
Stay Calm: It's important to remain calm so you can think clearly and act effectively. A panicked owner can inadvertently cause more harm than good.
-
Do Not Attempt to Grab the Water: Unlike solid objects, water cannot be dislodged by hand. Trying to grab the water could push it further into your dog's airway, causing more damage.
-
Encourage Coughing: If your dog is coughing, encourage this natural reflex as it helps to clear the airway. Hold your dog in a comfortable position and speak reassuringly to keep them calm while they cough out the water.
-
Perform the Heimlich Maneuver: For larger dogs, you can perform the canine Heimlich maneuver. Here's how:
- Stand behind your dog with their back against your stomach.
- Place your hands on either side of their ribcage, just below the last rib.
- Apply firm, quick pressure with both hands in an upward motion to try and dislodge the water.
- Repeat this action 3-4 times if necessary.
-
Seek Veterinary Care: After performing the Heimlich maneuver or if your dog stops breathing, immediately seek veterinary care. Even if your dog seems to have recovered, it's essential to get them checked by a professional as water can cause inflammation and irritation in the lungs.
-
Prevent Future Incidents: To prevent future choking incidents, ensure that your dog drinks water at a comfortable pace and avoid giving them large amounts of water all at once. You might also consider using a slow feeder bowl designed to regulate the speed at which they drink.