What to do if the dog choked and coughs and cannot cough up what it choked on? - briefly
If a dog is choking and coughing but cannot dislodge the object, immediate action is crucial. Perform the Heimlich maneuver for dogs by placing your hands around the dog's abdomen just below the ribcage and applying quick, upward thrusts until the object is expelled. If the dog becomes unconscious, lay it on its side and perform chest compressions. Seek veterinary assistance immediately afterward.
What to do if the dog choked and coughs and cannot cough up what it choked on? - in detail
When a dog chokes and coughs but cannot dislodge the object causing the obstruction, immediate and correct action is crucial. The first step is to remain calm, as panicking can exacerbate the situation and cause further distress to the dog. Assess the situation quickly to determine the severity of the choking. If the dog is conscious and able to breathe slightly, it may still be able to dislodge the object on its own. However, if the dog is struggling to breathe or turns blue, immediate intervention is necessary.
To perform the Heimlich maneuver on a dog, follow these steps:
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Small Dogs: Place the dog on its back and apply gentle pressure just below the ribcage. Perform quick, upward thrusts to try and dislodge the object. Be cautious not to apply too much force, as small dogs are more fragile.
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Medium to Large Dogs: Stand behind the dog and wrap your arms around its abdomen, just below the ribcage. Make a fist with one hand and place it just below the ribcage. Grasp your fist with your other hand and perform quick, upward thrusts. Continue these thrusts until the object is dislodged or the dog becomes unconscious.
If the dog becomes unconscious, lay it on its side and open its mouth to check for any visible obstructions. If an object is visible, carefully remove it using your fingers. Be cautious not to push the object further down the throat. If no object is visible, perform rescue breathing by closing the dog's mouth and breathing into its nose until the chest rises. Continue this process until the dog starts breathing on its own or until veterinary help arrives.
It is essential to seek veterinary care as soon as possible, even if the object is successfully removed. The dog may have sustained internal injuries or may require further examination to ensure there are no lingering issues. Always keep the contact information for your local veterinarian or an emergency animal clinic handy for such situations.
Prevention is also crucial. Ensure that small toys, bones, and other potential choking hazards are kept out of reach. Regularly check your dog's toys for any signs of wear and tear that could pose a risk. Educating yourself on basic canine first aid can also be invaluable in handling emergencies effectively.