Each year, June 22nd is designated as National Pet Choking Prevention Day, a day aimed at educating pet parents about the risks and dangers of choking, how it occurs, and what to do. According to NationalPetChokingPreventionDay.com, “More than 200,000 pet choking incidents occur in the US every year.” Choking is a serious concern for pets. and knowing how to prevent it and respond effectively may mean the difference between life and death. Thankfully, pet choking is preventable and today, we’re discussing pet choking prevention and what it means for you.
Pet Choking Prevention: Understanding the Risks
Bow Wow Labs created National Pet Choking Prevention Day in partnership with Dr. Judy Morgan. Their goal was to #endpetchoking through education and by promoting products that minimize pets’ choking risks. To understand the risks, it’s important to understand common items that cause pets to choke, keeping in mind that choking can happen to any pet – cats, dogs, small mammals, and more.
Following are some common items that frequently cause pet choking:
- Unsafe Food: Small bones, rawhide chews, and hard treats can break off and lodge in the throat, especially for smaller pets or those with dental issues.
- Toys: Toys with small parts, squeakers, or pieces that can be chewed off pose a risk. Young puppies and kittens are particularly at risk.
- Household Items: Coins, rubber bands, ribbon, paper clips, and other small objects left lying around can be easily swallowed.
- Clothing: Buttons, zippers, and other accessories can detach and become choking hazards.
- Outdoor Dangers: Sticks, stones, and debris found during walks or playtime can be tempting for pets to pick up and potentially choke on.
Pet Choking Prevention: Prioritizing Prevention
Thankfully, most incidents of pet choking are preventable with a few proactive measures such as the following:
- Choose Safe Toys: Select toys appropriate for your pet’s species, size, and chewing habits. Avoid toys with small parts or those that can be easily broken down. Opt for larger, more durable options and supervise playtime, especially with new toys.
- Mindful Mealtimes: Choking on food can happen, particularly for pets who gobble their meals down. Consider using a slow feeder or food puzzle to encourage slower eating. For treats, break them into smaller, manageable pieces to avoid choking hazards.
- Pet-Proof Your Home: Scan your living space regularly and eliminate potential choking hazards from your pet’s reach. This includes keeping household items like coins, buttons, and medication off the floor or countertops.
- Supervise Outdoor Adventures: Keep a close eye on your pet during walks and playtime to prevent them from picking up and ingesting sticks, stones, or other debris. Consider a muzzle if your dog has his sight set on making a buffet out of every dog walk so he doesn’t ingest anything dangerous.
Pet Choking Prevention: Recognizing the Signs
Knowing how to recognize the signs of choking in your pet is crucial for a timely response. Here are some things to watch out for:
- Pawing at the mouth
- Dragging face against the ground
- Coughing
- Distress
- Difficulty breathing (wheezing, gasping)
- Excessive drooling or salivation
- Tongue and gums turning blue or purple
- Loss of consciousness
Pet Choking Prevention: Coming to the Rescue
If you suspect your pet is choking, stay calm and act quickly. Here’s what you can do:
Clear the Airway (if possible): For larger pets who are still conscious, you can attempt to remove the object from their mouth with your fingers, but only if it’s visible and easily reachable. Do not force it, as you might push the object further down.- The Heimlich Maneuver (modified for pets): If unable to remove the object manually, a modified Heimlich maneuver can be attempted on larger dogs. It’s crucial to learn the proper technique beforehand, through a pet CPR class. This video is a great guide for learning the maneuver and other rescue strategies.
- Seek Veterinary Attention Immediately: Even if the choking seems to subside, it’s essential to get your pet to a veterinarian right away for a thorough evaluation.
Pet Choking Prevention: Being Prepared
By being aware of the choking risks and taking preventative measures, you can significantly reduce the chances of your pet experiencing this frightening situation. Knowing how to recognize the signs and respond appropriately can also make a world of difference. Remember, a little preparation can go a long way in keeping your furry friend safe and happy. Consider enrolling in a pet CPR and first-aid class to gain valuable skills in handling choking emergencies.
At Animal Admiration, our employees are trained in pet first aid and CRP to ensure that they too are prepared to respond to an emergency if one arises while they are in our care. We take prevention just as seriously by scanning homes and paths for potential choking hazards. Our focus on prevention doesn’t end there; we also puppy and kitty proof homes where possible to ensure that once we leave your home your pet is safe from any potential accidents or injuries. If you have a pet that has a keen interest in chewing or exploring with his or her muzzle, please let us know so that we can be extra cautious during visits.
Contact us at info@animaladmiration.com or (281) 391-1015 to learn about our in-home pet care services. Our team of outstanding pet care providers offers quality care dog sitting, cat sitting, and dog walking in Katy, Fulshear, Richmond, Energy Corridor, Memorial, West Houston, and Cypress.
Recent Comments