What should I do if my dog is drowning? - briefly
If your dog is drowning, immediately call for help and, if possible, throw them a buoyant object they can grab onto or use to keep their head above water. Never attempt to rescue them yourself unless you are trained in water rescues, as this can put both of you at risk.
What should I do if my dog is drowning? - in detail
If you find yourself in the distressing situation where your dog is drowning, immediate and decisive action is crucial. Here are the steps you should follow:
Firstly, ensure your own safety before attempting a rescue. Do not enter the water if it is too deep or has strong currents, as this could put both you and your dog at greater risk. If possible, find a long object like a pole, branch, or rope to reach out to your dog from the shore.
If you must enter the water, wear a life jacket if available, and avoid areas with strong currents. Approach your dog calmly but swiftly. Do not call out to your dog as this could cause them to panic and struggle more. Instead, focus on getting close enough to grab them safely.
When you are near your dog, try to position yourself behind them so that they cannot bite or scratch you in their panic. Gently grasp the collar or the loose skin at the nape of their neck. If there is no collar, grab any part of their body firmly but gently, avoiding the tail and legs as these areas are more prone to injury.
Once you have a secure hold, slowly and calmly make your way back to shore. Avoid any sudden movements that could startle or panic your dog further. If your dog is too large for you to handle alone, call out for help from others nearby.
Upon reaching the shore, immediately check your dog's airway to ensure it is clear of water. You can do this by gently extending their neck and head to encourage water to drain out. Be cautious not to tilt their head too far back as this could obstruct the airway with the tongue.
If your dog is not breathing, begin chest compressions immediately. Place one hand on top of the other and apply firm pressure over the heart, which is located in the lower half of the ribcage towards the left side of their body. Perform 10-15 compressions at a rate of about 80-120 per minute, similar to human CPR.
After every set of compressions, give two quick breaths into your dog's nostrils. Make sure your dog’s mouth is closed so that the air goes directly into their lungs. Continue this cycle until your dog regains consciousness or you reach a veterinary clinic for professional help.
Even if your dog appears to be revived, it is essential to seek immediate veterinary care. Drowning can cause severe internal injuries and fluid buildup in the lungs that may not be immediately apparent. Your veterinarian can provide the necessary monitoring and treatment to ensure your dog's full recovery.