What should I do if my dog isn't moving?

What should I do if my dog isn't moving? - briefly

If your dog is not moving, immediately check for any signs of breathing or pulse. If there are none, perform CPR by pressing on their chest and giving rescue breaths until help arrives.

What should I do if my dog isn't moving? - in detail

If you find your dog is not moving, it is crucial to act swiftly and calmly to ensure their safety and well-being. Here are the steps you should follow:

1. Assess the Situation: First, observe your dog carefully. Check for any visible signs of injury or distress such as bleeding, broken bones, or unusual postures. If there is an immediate threat like a falling object or a fire, remove your dog to safety first before proceeding with further checks.

2. Check for Responsiveness: Gently call out your dog's name and try to get their attention. You can also lightly tap their shoulder or paw to see if they respond. If there is no reaction, proceed cautiously.

3. Perform a Quick Health Check:

   • Breathing: Place your hand near your dog’s nose to feel for breath. Alternatively, you can look at their chest to see if it is rising and falling.
   • Pulse: Find your dog's pulse by placing your fingers on the inside of their thigh where the leg meets the body. You should feel a steady beat. If unsure, count the beats for 15 seconds and multiply by four to get the beats per minute (BPM).
   • Temperature: Feel your dog’s paws or belly. They should feel slightly warm but not hot or cold.

4. Contact a Veterinarian: If your dog is unresponsive, not breathing, or has no pulse, immediately call your veterinarian or the nearest emergency animal clinic. Inform them of the situation and follow their instructions.

5. Perform CPR if Necessary: While waiting for professional help, you may need to perform CPR. Here’s how:

   • For Small Dogs (under 30 pounds): Place your dog on their back with their head tilted slightly back. Close their mouth and perform gentle chest compressions with two fingers, aiming for about 100-120 compressions per minute. After every set of 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths by closing the muzzle and breathing into it until you see the chest rise.
   • For Large Dogs (over 30 pounds): Place your dog on their right side. Kneel next to them and place one hand over the other on the widest part of the ribcage. Perform compressions with your body weight, aiming for about 80-100 compressions per minute. After every set of 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths by closing the muzzle and breathing into it until you see the chest rise.

6. Stay Calm and Reassuring: Keep a calm demeanor throughout the process. Talking to your dog in a soothing voice can help keep them calm and reassured.

7. Monitor Recovery: If your dog regains consciousness, monitor their recovery closely. Even if they seem fine, it is essential to get them checked by a veterinarian as soon as possible to rule out any underlying issues that may not be immediately apparent.

By following these steps, you can help ensure the best outcome for your dog in case of an emergency where they are unresponsive or not moving.