What should I do if my dog's nose is not breathing? - briefly
If your dog's nose appears to be not breathing, it is crucial to remain calm and assess the situation immediately. Check for any obstruction in the nasal passages or signs of distress, and contact your veterinarian or an emergency pet clinic right away.
What should I do if my dog's nose is not breathing? - in detail
If you observe that your dog's nose appears to be not breathing, it is crucial to remain calm and assess the situation carefully. This condition can be alarming, but it is essential to understand that dogs do not breathe through their noses exclusively; they also breathe through their mouths. However, if your dog is not breathing through either the nose or the mouth, this is a medical emergency.
Firstly, check if your dog is conscious and responsive. If your dog is unconscious, immediately check for a pulse by placing your hand on the inside of the hind leg, where the femoral artery is located. If there is no pulse, begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) immediately. For small dogs, compress the chest with your fingers; for larger dogs, use your hands. Perform 30 compressions followed by two breaths into the dog's nose and mouth. Continue this cycle until your dog shows signs of life or until veterinary help arrives.
If your dog is conscious but not breathing, try to calm your dog to prevent panic, which can exacerbate the situation. Gently hold your dog's muzzle and tilt the head back slightly to open the airway. Look inside the mouth for any obstructions such as foreign objects, excessive saliva, or vomit. If you see an obstruction, carefully remove it using your fingers or tweezers. Be cautious not to push the object further down the throat.
Next, perform the muzzle-to-muzzle rescue breath. Close your dog's mouth and seal your mouth over your dog's nose and mouth. Blow gently but firmly into your dog's nose and mouth, watching for the chest to rise. Give two rescue breaths, then check for breathing. If there is still no breathing, continue with the rescue breaths and chest compressions as described earlier.
While performing these steps, it is vital to seek immediate veterinary assistance. Call your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary clinic and explain the situation. They can provide guidance over the phone and prepare for your arrival. If possible, have someone else drive you to the veterinary clinic while you continue to administer first aid.
In summary, if your dog's nose appears to be not breathing, assess the situation calmly, check for consciousness and pulse, remove any obstructions from the airway, perform rescue breaths and chest compressions if necessary, and seek immediate veterinary help. Your quick and composed actions can significantly improve your dog's chances of recovery.