Blog Post

To Heimlich or Not

Pet Pals LLC • Jan 24, 2019

Heimlich Maneuver videos included.

A dog choking can be very scary. It happens in a split second. Be prepared.

Because there are many signs that can be confusing to understand, it is especially important for dog owners to know the difference between these actions and actual dog choking signs. Often times, what may sound or look like choking, is actually an indication of another type of condition. For instance, many owners confuse when a canine is coughing gagging, reverse sneezing or vomiting to be signs a dog is choking when that actually is not the case. Being able to distinguish a minor issue from a potentially fatal one, will not only help to keep your own stress and panic to a minimum but your animal’s as well.

So, what are the signs a dog is choking?

  • Lips or tongue turning blue from a lack of oxygen.
  • Pawing at the mouth.
  • Difficulty breathing.
  • General agitation.
  • Panicking in a way you have never seen prior

Some of the top common items dogs choke on:
  • Cooked bones. Cooked bones will splinter and create an even greater risk by breaking into smaller, sharper pieces.
  • Rawhides
  • Rocks
  • Plastic Wrap.Most dogs will dig through the trash if given the opportunity. Many dangers lie in the trash can, especially plastic wrap.
  • Wrong size toy.Finding the right sized ball/toy for your dog is one of the most important things you’ll ever need to do.


Your dog IS choking what should you do? Here are some great video to view and learn how to preform the Heimlich Maneuver on your dog.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YnXt8ou9qeA&fbclid=IwAR3is55_iyPTqrknxpm1W3X9tD1VqjJ76wClnGT1WGIyt71tWoY4PNUzZs4

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kz8AMr1gAeo






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