Last week: HOW TO Prevent Hip Dysplasia in Your Dog

It’s your worst nightmare: You toss Fido a treat, which he gulps down whole – and starts gagging. You pat his back, but he continues to choke. What do you do?

Choking occurs when a dog can’t breathe because a foreign object or constriction is preventing air from reaching his lungs through his throat. While gagging is the most obvious sign, be aware of other choking symptoms such as difficulty breathing, pacing, drooling, excessive pawing at the mouth and a blue-tinged tongue, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).

If your dog is choking, you should rush him to your vet or emergency clinic. The AVMA and petplace.com recommend you also do the following. A panicking, choking dog is more likely to bite, so use caution.  (more…)