Emergency Choking Aid
If your dog is choking, you can use the canine version of the Heimlich maneuver. Dogs often swallow unsafe items like bones or toy pieces. Signs include anxiety, trouble breathing, or pawing at their mouth.
Gravity
Hold your dog like a wheelbarrow so their head faces downward, letting gravity help shake the object loose.
Mouth Sweep
Sweep your fingers side to side inside their mouth to remove the item.
Back Blows
Strike between their shoulder blades five times, using the heel of your hand.
Abdominal Thrusts
Perform abdominal thrusts: Wrap your arms around their waist, make a fist, place it below their rib cage, and give quick, forceful upward pushes 3–5 times. Repeat up to 4 cycles if needed.
Proper technique can save your dog’s life. Remain calm, but move fast. If successful, the object pops out; if not, repeat and contact a vet.
