What should you do if your dog is lying motionless? - briefly
If your dog is lying motionless, immediately check for signs of breathing and a heartbeat. If these are absent, initiate CPR and contact your veterinarian or the nearest emergency veterinary clinic without delay.
What should you do if your dog is lying motionless? - in detail
Discovering your dog lying motionless can be a distressing experience. It is crucial to remain calm and act swiftly to assess the situation and provide necessary aid. The first step is to approach your dog carefully and observe for any signs of breathing or movement. Gently call your dog's name and observe if there is any response. If your dog is unresponsive, check for breathing by placing your hand on the dog's chest or feeling for breath near the nostrils. If breathing is present, but your dog is still unresponsive, it may indicate a loss of consciousness.
If your dog is not breathing, immediate action is required. Begin canine CPR by placing your dog on a flat surface. For small dogs, use the mouth-to-nose technique by sealing your mouth over your dog's nose and delivering breaths. For larger dogs, use the mouth-to-mouth technique by sealing your mouth over your dog's muzzle and delivering breaths. Deliver 2-3 breaths, ensuring the chest rises with each breath. After delivering breaths, check for a pulse by placing your fingers on the inside of the hind leg, near the groin, or on the chest. If there is no pulse, begin chest compressions. For small dogs, use your hands to compress the chest at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. For larger dogs, use your body weight to compress the chest at the same rate. Perform 30 compressions followed by 2 breaths.
If your dog is breathing but unresponsive, check for any visible injuries or signs of trauma. If injuries are present, stabilize the area and seek veterinary care immediately. If no injuries are visible, monitor your dog's breathing and heart rate. If your dog remains unresponsive, it may be experiencing a medical emergency such as poisoning, heatstroke, or a neurological issue. In such cases, seek immediate veterinary attention.
While waiting for veterinary care, keep your dog warm and comfortable. Wrap your dog in a blanket to maintain body heat and provide a quiet, calm environment. Avoid moving your dog unless necessary, as movement can exacerbate injuries or cause further harm. If your dog regains consciousness but appears disoriented or weak, continue to monitor their condition and seek veterinary advice.
In summary, if your dog is lying motionless, remain calm and assess the situation. Check for breathing and responsiveness, and if necessary, begin CPR. Monitor for injuries and seek immediate veterinary care. Keeping your dog warm and comfortable while awaiting professional help is essential. Always prioritize your dog's safety and well-being, and trust your instincts to act quickly and decisively in an emergency.