What to do if something gets stuck in a dog's throat and it coughs? - briefly
If a dog is coughing due to something stuck in its throat, immediate action is crucial. Perform the Heimlich maneuver for dogs by placing your hands around the dog's abdomen just below the ribcage and apply quick, upward thrusts until the object is dislodged. If the dog is small, place it on its back and apply gentle pressure just below the ribcage.
If the object is visible and can be safely removed, do so carefully without pushing it further down the throat. Always contact a veterinarian immediately, even if the object is removed, as internal damage may have occurred.
In cases where the dog becomes unconscious, perform CPR if you are trained to do so, and seek veterinary help immediately. Here are the steps for dog CPR:
- Lay the dog on its side.
- Check for breathing and a heartbeat.
- If there is no heartbeat, place your hands over the heart and compress the chest at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
- After 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths by closing the dog's mouth and breathing into its nose until the chest rises.
- Continue the cycle of 30 compressions and 2 breaths until the dog shows signs of life or veterinary help arrives.
Preventive measures include keeping small objects out of reach, supervising playtime, and ensuring the dog's environment is safe and free from potential choking hazards. Regular veterinary check-ups can also help in early detection of any respiratory issues.
What to do if something gets stuck in a dog's throat and it coughs? - in detail
When a dog has something stuck in its throat and is coughing, it is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. The first step is to remain calm and assess the situation quickly. Panic can escalate the problem and cause the dog to become more agitated, making it harder to help.
Observe the dog's breathing. If the dog is struggling to breathe, it is crucial to act swiftly. Open the dog's mouth carefully and look for any visible objects. If you see something lodged in the throat, use your fingers to gently sweep the back of the throat to try and dislodge the object. Be cautious not to push the object further down the throat.
If the object is not visible or cannot be removed with your fingers, perform the Heimlich maneuver for dogs. For small dogs, place the dog on its back and apply gentle pressure just below the ribcage, using quick, upward thrusts. For larger dogs, stand behind the dog, wrap your arms around its waist, and perform the same upward thrusts just below the ribcage. Continue these thrusts until the object is dislodged or the dog becomes unconscious.
If the dog becomes unconscious, begin CPR immediately. Place the dog on a flat surface and check for a heartbeat. If there is no heartbeat, perform chest compressions. For small dogs, use one hand to compress the chest about one inch deep. For larger dogs, use both hands to compress the chest about two inches deep. After 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths by closing the dog's mouth and breathing into its nose until the chest rises.
If the object is successfully removed and the dog is breathing normally, monitor the dog closely for any signs of distress. Even if the dog seems fine, it is essential to take the dog to a veterinarian for a thorough examination. The veterinarian can check for any internal damage and ensure that the dog's airway is clear.
Prevention is always better than cure. To avoid such incidents, keep small objects and hazardous materials out of the dog's reach. Be mindful of what the dog is eating and playing with, and ensure that toys are appropriate for the dog's size and chewing habits. Regular veterinary check-ups can also help identify any potential issues before they become serious problems. Always prioritize the dog's safety and well-being, and seek professional help when needed.