How to Save a Choking Pet

Heimlich Maneuver® Saves Choking Pets, Too

A "Hints from Heloise" article from the nationally syndicated column was printed recently to remind readers of the effectiveness of the Heimlich Maneuver on pets who are choking on food or other objects.

The Maneuver is administered in a similar manner as with children, taking care to place hands below the rib cage and pushing up on the abdomen with gentle thrusts. Do not press on the rib cage. Never put your fingers into a choking animal's mouth. You may push the object further into the throat or be bitten. Signs to look for are difficulty breathing, pawing at the mouth, and blue lips and mouth. Toys with removable parts, rawhide chews, and chicken bones are just some of the objects which pose a choking hazard. Take the same safety precautions with pets as you would with a small child.

Talk to your veterinarian for more information about properly and safely administering the Heimlich Maneuver to your pet. If you or someone you know has used the Maneuver to save a choking pet, we'd like to hear from you. Please e-mail your story to us at: heimlich@iglou.com.