How to Perform the Dog Heimlich Maneuver

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By Kristie Leong M.D.
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The Heimlich maneuver could save your dog's life.

If your dog is choking, time is of essence. By understanding how to perform the Heimlich maneuver on your dog, you could potentially save his life.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

First, assess whether your dog is actually choking. Sometimes respiratory problems other than airway obstruction can be interpreted as choking. You don't want to perform the dog Heimlich maneuver on a dog that's not choking due to the potential for injury to the dog.
Step 2

Once you're satisfied that you dog is choking, open his mouth and remove any obvious foreign body that might be causing obstruction.
Step 3

Grasp your dog around his waist and place your fists beneath his last ribs.
Step 4

With your hands in position, deliver three firm abdominal compressions and release them quickly.
Step 5

Check your dog's mouth again for any foreign body that may have been dislodged. If found, remove it.
Step 6

If your dog is still choking, you may repeat this process up to three times.
Step 7

If you're unable to remove the obstruction with the above maneuver, seek medical attention immediately at your nearest veterinary emergency room.
Step 8

If you're able to successfully remove the obstruction, reassess your dog's breathing. If your dog is not moving air, perform mouth to mouth resuscitation on your dog.
Step 9

Your dog will still need to be seen by his veterinarian even if the obstruction is successfully removed. A foreign body can sometimes damage the delicate passages of the throat or esophagus. Make arrangements for your dog to be transported immediately for medical attention.

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