Breathing Difficulties

This could be due to an obstruction of the air passage to the lungs by a foreign body or the dog’s own tongue if it is unconscious, strangulation by his collar, electrocution, drowning, heart attack or chest injuries. If the dog is breathing with difficulty, clear airway and, if necessary, start artificial respiration immediately. If you cannot see breathing movement, place your ear on the dog’s chest and listen for a heartbeat or take his pulse. If the heart has stopped within the last minute or so but you think the dog is not yet dead, apply heart massage and artificial respiration together. Never attempt the kiss of life if you have reason to believe that poison is involved.

Artificial Respiration

Open dog’s mouth, grasp tongue and pull it well forward clear of back of throat. Wipe away any mucus or blood. Remove any obstruction. Remove any collar or restricting item. 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. If dog is still not breathing, start artificial respiration. Close mouth, place your mouth over the dog’s nose and exhale to force air through his nose to the lungs. Watch the dog’s chest for the lungs to inflate. Remove your mouth, and repeat the cycle about six times a minute. You may need to carry on for 30-60 minutes, until the dog is breathing by himself or is pronounced dead.