What to do if a dog chokes and wheezes?

What to do if a dog chokes and wheezes? - briefly

If your dog is choking and wheezing, immediately open its mouth and check for any visible obstructions. To dislodge the object, perform the Heimlich maneuver by applying firm pressure just below the ribcage.

What to do if a dog chokes and wheezes? - in detail

If your dog is choking and wheezing, prompt action is crucial to prevent serious harm or even death. Here's a step-by-step guide on what to do:

1. Stay Calm: It's essential to remain calm so you can think clearly and act effectively. Dogs are highly perceptive of their owners' emotions, so staying calm will also help your dog feel less anxious.

2. Check the Mouth: Gently open your dog's mouth and look for any obstructions. Be careful not to push the object further down the throat. If you can see and safely reach the object, try to remove it with your fingers or a pair of tweezers.

3. Perform the Finger Sweep: If the object is too far back to grab with your fingers, perform the finger sweep technique:

   • Place your dog on its side on a stable surface.
   • Insert your index finger and thumb into the mouth, pressing them against the roof of the mouth.
   • Sweep your finger in a hooking motion towards you to try and dislodge the object. Be gentle but firm.

4. Abdominal Thrusts: If the finger sweep doesn't work or if the object is too large, perform abdominal thrusts:

   • Place your dog on its side.
   • Make a fist with one hand and place it right behind the ribcage.
   • With your other hand, press firmly inward and upward into the fist. This should force air out of the lungs, potentially dislodging the object.
   • Repeat this 3-5 times if necessary.

5. Back Blows: Another technique is to perform back blows:

   • Hold your dog upright with one hand supporting its chest.
   • Use the heel of your other hand to firmly strike between the shoulder blades, directing the force towards the head. This can help dislodge the object.

6. Seek Professional Help: Even if you successfully remove the obstruction, it's essential to take your dog to a veterinarian immediately. Internal damage or other complications may not be immediately apparent. Your vet can perform a thorough examination and provide any necessary treatment.

7. Prevention Tips: To prevent future choking incidents:

   • Keep small objects and toys that could be swallowed out of reach.
   • Supervise your dog when it's playing with toys or chews, especially if they are known to be aggressive chewers.
   • Consider training your dog to avoid swallowing inappropriate items, such as rocks or sticks.

By following these steps and seeking professional help promptly, you can increase the chances of a positive outcome for your choking dog.