First Aid : Dog Breathing

Breathing

Many things can cause a dog to either have difficulty breathing or to stop breathing.

First clear the airway, by removing any foreign matter or obstruction. Wipe away any mucus or blood, remove his collar or harness.

If your dog is not breathing start artificial respiration and CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation).

Close his mouth, place your mouth directly over his nose and exhale to force air
Into his lungs at 12-15 breathes per minute. Watch his chest to see if his lungs inflate. Remove your mouth, and repeat the cycle at about six times a minute.

At the same time begin CPR by laying your dog on its right side on flat surface.

With his mouth closed and while performing artificial respiration, locate the heart by reaching deep into the socket of the pet’s left leg and counting 3-4 ribs back towards the tail along the pet’s chest. Place heel of hand in that spot and compress his chest rhythmically and firmly (but hot too hard) at 60-80 times per minute. Repeat.

If the animal has fluid in its throat or is a victim of drowning hold him upside down by his rear legs for 15-30 seconds.

Call your vet!

Related Pages

Dog first aid – essential advice on first aid for dogs

Dog first aid kit – essential first aid items

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