What to do if a dog is choking? - briefly
If your dog is choking, quickly assess whether you can see an object in their mouth or throat. If visible, carefully remove it using tongs or by performing the Heimlich maneuver for dogs: stand behind them, wrap your arms around their belly just behind the ribcage, and apply firm pressure with quick thrusts until the object is dislodged.
What to do if a dog is choking? - in detail
If you suspect your dog is choking, it's crucial to act swiftly and calmly. Choking occurs when an object blocks the airway, preventing oxygen from reaching the lungs. Here are the steps you should follow:
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Assess the Situation: Check if the dog can breathe, bark, or make any noises. If there's complete silence and the dog is pawing at its throat or mouth, it may be choking.
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Perform the Heimlich Maneuver: For small dogs (under 30 pounds), wrap your arms around the dog's torso, just behind the front legs. Make a fist with one hand and place it right below the dog's sternum, where you would expect to find its rib cage. With your other hand, give several quick, firm thrusts inward and upward, as if you were trying to lift the dog off the ground.
For larger dogs (over 30 pounds), stand behind the dog. Make a fist with both hands and place them right below the dog's sternum. Push firmly inward and upward, using your body weight if necessary.
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Check for Dislodged Object: After performing the Heimlich maneuver, check the dog's mouth to see if the object has been dislodged. If you can see it, carefully remove it with your fingers or tweezers. Be cautious not to push the object further back into the throat.
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Perform CPR: If the object is still lodged and the dog becomes unconscious, start cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Lay the dog on its side and perform chest compressions with one hand, using the same technique as the Heimlich maneuver. Perform 30 compressions, then tilt the dog's head back slightly to open the airway and give two rescue breaths into the dog's nose. Continue this cycle until the dog regains consciousness or you reach a veterinary clinic.
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Seek Veterinary Care: Even if your efforts are successful and the dog starts breathing again, it is essential to take the dog to a vet immediately. The object may have caused internal damage that requires professional attention.
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Prevention: To prevent future choking incidents, ensure that small objects or food items that could be swallowed whole are kept out of reach. Regularly check your dog's toys for any signs of wear and tear that could lead to pieces breaking off and being ingested.