What to do if your dog chokes and coughs? - briefly
If your dog is choking and coughing, remain calm and assess the situation. Quickly check if there is a visible obstruction in the dog's throat or mouth. If you can see the object, carefully attempt to remove it using your fingers or pliers. If the object is not visible, perform the Heimlich maneuver by placing your dog on its side, finding the soft hollow below the ribcage, and applying firm, quick presses until the object is dislodged. If the dog becomes unconscious, perform CPR immediately and seek veterinary assistance as soon as possible.
What to do if your dog chokes and coughs? - in detail
Choking and coughing in dogs can be alarming, but knowing the appropriate steps to take can make a significant difference in ensuring your pet's safety. It is crucial to remain calm and act promptly. Here is a detailed guide on how to handle the situation.
First, assess the severity of the choking. If your dog is making loud, forceful coughing sounds, it may indicate that the airway is partially blocked. In such cases, the dog might be able to dislodge the object on its own. Encourage your dog to cough by gently patting its chest or throat area. Keep a close eye on your dog to ensure the object is expelled.
If the coughing becomes weak or stops, the situation is more serious. The airway may be completely blocked, preventing your dog from breathing. This requires immediate action. Place your dog on a flat surface and check its mouth for any visible obstructions. If you can see the object, carefully attempt to remove it using your fingers. Be cautious not to push the object further down the throat. If the object is not visible or cannot be safely removed, proceed to perform the Heimlich maneuver.
To perform the Heimlich maneuver on a dog, stand behind your pet and place your arms around its abdomen, just behind the ribcage. Make a fist with one hand and place it just below the ribcage. Grasp your fist with your other hand and apply quick, upward thrusts. The goal is to create enough pressure to dislodge the object. For small dogs, you may need to place them on their backs and apply gentle pressure to the abdomen.
If your dog becomes unconscious, lay it on its side and open its mouth. Look for any obstructions and attempt to remove them. If the airway is clear, perform rescue breathing. Close your dog's mouth and breathe into its nose until you see the chest rise. Give one breath every 3-5 seconds.
It is essential to seek veterinary care as soon as possible, even if you successfully dislodge the object. The veterinarian can assess any potential damage to the throat or airway and provide appropriate treatment. Additionally, if your dog shows signs of distress, such as difficulty breathing, excessive drooling, or blue-tinged gums, immediate veterinary attention is necessary.
Prevention is always better than cure. To minimize the risk of choking, keep small objects, toys with small parts, and non-food items out of your dog's reach. Supervise your dog during playtime and mealtime to ensure it does not ingest anything harmful. Regularly inspect your dog's toys for signs of wear and tear, and replace them as needed.
In summary, staying calm and acting quickly is vital when dealing with a choking dog. Assess the situation, attempt to remove any visible obstructions, and perform the Heimlich maneuver if necessary. Always seek veterinary care afterward to ensure your dog's well-being. By taking preventive measures, you can help protect your dog from potential choking hazards.