What is what to do when your dog is choking?

If your dog is choking, time is of the essence. Here's what to do:

1. Recognize the signs of choking. These include:

   • Excessive drooling or gagging
   • Difficulty breathing or noisy breathing
   • Pawing at the mouth or face
   • Blue-tinged gums or tongue (cyanosis)
   • Collapse or loss of consciousness

2. Check the mouth. Carefully open your dog's mouth and look for a visible object. If you see something, try to remove it with your fingers or pliers. Be very careful not to push the object further down the throat. A link to further information on <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/How%20To%20Check%20Dog%27s%20Mouth">checking your dog's mouth</a> may be helpful.

3. Perform the Heimlich maneuver (for dogs). There are two main variations:

   • Small to Medium Sized Dogs: Hold the dog upside down by its hind legs and give sharp thrusts to the abdomen, just below the rib cage.
   • Large Dogs: Place the dog on its side. Put one hand on its back for support and the other hand just below the rib cage. Give a sharp upward thrust towards the diaphragm.

   Repeat the Heimlich maneuver 3-5 times. Further reading on <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Dog%20Heimlich%20Maneuver">performing the dog Heimlich maneuver</a> can give a more detailed understanding.

4. Back Blows: For any size dog, you can try back blows. Hold the dog firmly and deliver several sharp blows between the shoulder blades using the heel of your hand.

5. Check the mouth again. After each attempt with the Heimlich maneuver or back blows, check the mouth for the dislodged object.

6. If unsuccessful, repeat steps 3-5. Alternate between the Heimlich maneuver and back blows.

7. Seek immediate veterinary care. Even if you manage to dislodge the object, it's crucial to take your dog to a veterinarian immediately. Choking can cause internal injuries or aspiration pneumonia. A link to information about <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Veterinary%20Care%20For%20Dogs">seeking veterinary care for dogs</a> can emphasize this point.

Important Considerations:

• Stay calm. Your dog will be distressed, and panicking will make the situation worse.
• Handle with care. Even the friendliest dog may bite when in distress.
• Prevention is key. Keep small objects, bones, and toys that can be easily swallowed away from your dog.