Dog symptoms that include coughing or gagging, pawing at the mouth, pale or blue-tinged gums, distress or frantic behavior, or a loss of consciousness  may indicate that a dog is choking and may require first aid for choking.

Dogs are curious and often explore their world with their mouths.  Unfortunately, there are many times when a dog accidentally swallows these objects and it becomes lodged in his throat.  If this object is not removed immediately then there is the chance for the animal to stop breathing and become unconscious.

 When this happens you must think quickly and be prepared to take immediate action.  You would be wise to learn the basic steps that it takes to help your dog from choking.  This can invariably save the life of your companion. 

 The following are the basic First Aid steps which can be invaluable when dog symptoms indicate choking:

 If Your Dog Is Choking, But Remains Conscious

1. With two hands, open your dog's mouth and look inside to see if you can see the object.  If you can see it, try your best to remove it with your fingers.

 2. If you cannot see the object, place your dog on its side and elevate the hindquarters.

 3. Now place your hand below the rib cage and another on the dog's back.  Press in and then up, all in one fluid motion. Keep pressing until the object is coughed up.

 4. If the object does not come up then your dog may become unconscious due to the lack of oxygen.  If this happens, follow the steps below.

 If Your Dog Becomes Unconscious

 1. As stated above, be sure that the dog is placed on his side with his hindquarters elevated.

 2. Open the airway and be sure the tongue is pulled out as far as possible and place the tongue to the side.

 3. Now perform several compressions in the same area that you had attempted to press in the rib cage.  After two to three compressions, check the mouth for any foreign objects by using the sweep of your finger.

 4. Now give the dog a few breaths.  Breathe into the dogs mouth by blowing air into the mouth and nose.

 5. Repeat this cycle of compressions, finger sweeps, and artificial respiration breaths until your dog starts breathing by himself and dislodges the object.

 Dog symptoms of a choking dog can be frightening. By keeping calm and performing first aid you can save the life of your beloved companion.

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