Dog Choking

Dog Choking: Since dogs naturally try to put everything into their mouths there is always the risk that your dog will swallow something which will then become lodged in its throat. If something does become stuck in your dog's throat one of the first obvious signs will be your dog's panicky attempts to remove the obstruction with its paws. Bluish gums and tongue are also indicators that something is blocking your dog's airway. Anything blockages in your dog's throat should be treated as emergencies. Call an animal emergency clinic immediately and follow their instructions. If it is not possible to get immediate veterinarian assistance then you should follow these steps. Using the Heimlich maneuver (hands/arms clasped around your dog's waist, squeeze and at the same time push the abdomen upward, in a rapid and sharp manner) try to expel the obstruction. It is also sometimes possible to push the object up and out of the throat by applying pressure to the sides of your dog's neck.

What to do If your dog is choking
Do:

• Open your dog's mouth and check that the tongue is not blocking its airway.
• If your dog is asphyxiating being artificial respiration through your dog's nose.
• Call your veterinarian or the closest emergency animal clinic. 

Don't:

• Try to extract any obstructions from inside your dog's throat by putting your hand down into it.