The Heimlich maneuver has saved a countless number of lives. And while it is a technique used on people, what many don't know is that there is a separate technique used on dogs when they have something stuck in their windpipe. The maneuver, used on dogs, is pretty straightforward and easy to follow, as the diagram below will show.
Dogs are known to chew on practically anything, be it a bone, or a pair of socks. For this reason, it is very easy for small objects to become jammed in their trachea. However, it may be hard to determine that a dog is choking.
So what are the tell-tale signs? One sign that determines a dog is choking is that it will paw its mouth or show signs of breathing difficulties. If they begin to suffocate they will likely panic and may even fall unresponsive or unconscious.
If you notice these signs, try these four steps:
1. Assess the situation: Check the dog's mouth and throat by placing your finger in their mouth and sweeping it from side to side.
2. Give them a 'sharp blow' to the shoulder blades.
3. Hold up their hind legs as high as you can and tilt them down like a wheelbarrow.
Compress the abdomen by pushing up with your fist.
If all of the above fails, call your vet immediately.
Refer to the diagram below for further details:
It is essential that everyone learns the Heimlich maneuver, a fool-proof method that was first described in 1974 by US surgeon Dr. Henry Heimlich. If you do notice a person choking on an object, here's what you need to do:
1. Give up to five blows between their shoulder blades with the palm of your hand.
2. If the object remains lodged in the trachea, stand behind the person and wrap your arms around their waist.
3. Place your clenched fist just above the person's navel.
4. Grab your fist with your other hand and quickly pull inward and upward, as though you are trying to lift the person up.
5. Perform this abdominal thrust for a total of five times.
Knowing this vital information could really save someone's life.
