[Wylie's Mom]

I've noticed a few scary posts about choking lately, so I'm re-posting the process on how to dislodge something from your furbaby's airway.


THE HEIMLICH MANEUVER FOR DOGS AND CATS

The objective is to forcibly compress the lower chest in order to raise air pressure inside the chest - this should force the foreign material out of the throat or the larynx.

Here's what to do:

• Place the pet on its side on a hard surface.

• Place both hands behind the last rib and press down quickly and firmly - release immediately and repeat rapidly several times.

• Try to direct the force of your hands slightly forward - this will make your efforts more effective.

• Have someone carefully open the dog's or cat's mouth wide and attempt to retrieve the material from the throat as you compress the chest.

If you have a medium to large dog, here are the steps:

• Straddle your dog from behind.

• Put your fist just behind the last rib in the center - lifting up and forward - several quick motions.

• If there is a second person, have them open the dog's mouth during this process.

Once the airway is cleared, check for breathing; if the dog or cat isn't breathing, initiate artificial respiration and bring the animal to a vet's office immediately. If the animal is breathing, but damage to the airway or any other danger is suspected, get your pet to the vet asap.