What to do when a dog stops breathing? - briefly
If a dog stops breathing, immediately initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Place the dog on a flat surface, perform chest compressions at a rate of 100-120 per minute, and provide rescue breaths after every 30 compressions.
What to do when a dog stops breathing? - in detail
When a dog stops breathing, it is a critical and life-threatening situation that requires immediate action. The first step is to remain calm and act swiftly. Panic can cloud judgment and delay necessary actions. Assess the environment to ensure it is safe for both you and the dog. Remove any potential hazards that could cause further harm.
Begin by checking the dog's airway. Open the dog's mouth and look for any obstructions such as foreign objects, food, or vomit. If an obstruction is present, carefully remove it using your fingers or tweezers. Be cautious not to push the object further down the throat. Once the airway is clear, check for breathing by placing your hand or cheek near the dog's nose and mouth to feel for air movement. Listen for any sounds of breathing and observe the chest for movement.
If the dog is not breathing, initiate artificial respiration. Place the dog on a flat, stable surface. For small dogs, you can perform mouth-to-nose resuscitation. Gently close the dog's mouth and seal your lips around the dog's nose. For larger dogs, perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation by sealing your lips around the dog's muzzle. Deliver a breath by blowing gently into the dog's nose or mouth until you see the chest rise. Give two to three breaths, each lasting about two seconds.
While performing artificial respiration, check for a heartbeat. Place your hand on the dog's chest, just behind the elbow, to feel for a pulse. If there is no heartbeat, begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). For small dogs, use one hand to compress the chest. For larger dogs, use both hands. Place your hands over the dog's heart, which is located just behind the elbow on the left side of the chest. Compress the chest at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute, pressing down about one-third to one-half the width of the chest. After 30 compressions, give two breaths.
Continue CPR until the dog shows signs of life, such as breathing or a heartbeat, or until veterinary help arrives. If possible, have someone else call a veterinarian or an emergency pet clinic for guidance and to prepare for the dog's arrival. Provide the veterinarian with details about the incident, including any known medical conditions, medications, or recent events that may have contributed to the dog's condition.
If the dog begins to breathe on its own, monitor the breathing closely. Keep the dog warm and comfortable, and transport it to the nearest veterinary clinic for further evaluation and treatment. Even if the dog appears to recover, it is crucial to have a veterinarian assess the dog for any underlying issues that may have caused the breathing to stop.
In summary, when a dog stops breathing, immediate and correct actions are essential. Clear the airway, check for breathing and a heartbeat, and initiate artificial respiration and CPR if necessary. Seek veterinary help promptly to ensure the best possible outcome for the dog.