In a dramatic video captured by CCTV, a woman in Bangkok, Thailand, was seen performing the Heimlich maneuver on her French bulldog after it began to choke while she was making food in the kitchen. The dog had fallen to the ground and was shaking, prompting the owner to check its mouth and then perform the life-saving maneuver. Part of an apple was then spit out of the dog’s mouth, indicating that the pet owner had likely saved its life. Dr. Nell Ostermeier, a veterinarian from Portland, Oregon, provided recommendations on what to do if a pet is choking, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between choking and a seizure.
Ostermeier advised pet owners to first confirm if their dog is actually choking and not having a seizure, as the two situations can be mistaken. It is important to act quickly if a dog is choking, as evidenced by the video of the French bulldog in Thailand. If a pet’s lips, tongue, or skin are turning blue, it indicates that the animal is choking on an object and requires immediate intervention. The Heimlich maneuver is recommended in such cases as a first-aid procedure to treat upper airway obstruction caused by a foreign body. Ostermeier emphasized the importance of getting the pet to a veterinarian if possible and provided guidelines for performing the Heimlich maneuver on dogs based on their size.
To prevent choking incidents in pets, Ostermeier suggested monitoring items that may have fallen on the floor within the home and ensuring that pet toys are appropriate in size and safe for the animal to play with. It is also important for pet owners to assess the situation before taking any emergency measures, such as determining if the pet was eating too fast, chewing on a potentially dangerous object, or simply coughing. By being vigilant and taking proactive measures to prevent choking, pet owners can help ensure the safety and well-being of their furry companions.
The National Institutes of Health states that the Heimlich maneuver is a life-saving technique that is generally safe to perform, but caution should be exercised to avoid causing serious harm to the pet if the maneuver is not executed correctly. Ostermeier’s work with Figo Pet Insurance, a Chicago-based brand, highlights her expertise in pet care and her commitment to educating pet owners on emergency procedures such as the Heimlich maneuver. By raising awareness about the importance of swift action in situations where a pet is choking, Ostermeier aims to equip pet owners with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively respond to emergencies and safeguard the health of their beloved animals.
