It’s a terrifying scenario for any pet owner: you’re enjoying time with your dog, and suddenly, they start coughing, gagging, or pawing at their mouth. You suspect something is lodged in their throat. But, crucially, they’re still breathing. While it’s a huge relief that they are not choking, the situation still demands immediate and careful attention. Knowing what to do in these crucial moments can make all the difference. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps you should take when your dog has something stuck in their throat but can breathe.
Recognizing the Signs: Is Something Really Stuck?
Before you panic, it’s important to accurately assess the situation. Not every cough or gag means your dog has something lodged in their throat. Several other issues could be causing these symptoms.
Look for these signs that suggest a foreign object is indeed the culprit:
- Persistent Coughing or Gagging: This is often the first sign. Your dog might be trying to dislodge the object on their own.
- Pawing at the Mouth or Face: They may be instinctively trying to remove the object with their paws.
- Excessive Drooling: Increased saliva production can be a sign of irritation or discomfort in the throat.
- Retching or Vomiting: Attempting to expel the object.
- Restlessness and Agitation: They’re clearly uncomfortable and distressed.
- Difficulty Swallowing: They might hesitate or refuse to eat or drink.
- Change in Vocalization: Their bark or whimper might sound different due to throat irritation.
It’s essential to differentiate these symptoms from other conditions. Kennel cough, for example, can cause a persistent cough, but it’s a respiratory infection, not a foreign object. Similarly, a collapsing trachea (more common in small breeds) can cause a “goose honk” cough. Allergies can also cause coughing and irritation. If you’re unsure, erring on the side of caution is always best.
First Steps: Calm Assessment and Gentle Examination
Your immediate reaction might be panic, but your dog will pick up on your anxiety. Remain calm and speak to your dog in a soothing voice. This will help them stay as relaxed as possible, which is crucial for a successful examination.
Begin by gently examining your dog’s mouth.
- Open their mouth carefully: Use one hand to hold their muzzle gently from above.
- Look for anything obvious: Use a flashlight to get a better view. Check the back of the throat, under the tongue, and around the teeth. Common culprits include pieces of bone, sticks, toys, or food.
- Be cautious: If your dog is in pain or distress, they might bite. If you’re not comfortable or able to safely examine their mouth, skip this step and proceed to contacting a veterinarian immediately.
- Avoid pushing anything further down: If you see something but can’t easily grasp it, don’t try to force it. You could accidentally push it further down the throat.
What NOT to Do: Avoiding Common Mistakes
In a stressful situation, it’s easy to make mistakes that could worsen the situation. Here are some things to avoid:
- Don’t Panic: As mentioned earlier, your dog will sense your anxiety.
- Don’t Stick Your Fingers Down Their Throat Blindly: This could cause injury or push the object further down.
- Don’t Ignore the Situation: Even if your dog is breathing, a foreign object in the throat can cause irritation, infection, and potentially lead to a full blockage later.
- Don’t Give Food or Water: This could make it harder to remove the object or cause further complications.
- Don’t Attempt Unproven Home Remedies: Stick to established first-aid techniques or veterinary advice.
- Don’t Delay Seeking Professional Help: If you can’t safely remove the object or are unsure of what to do, contact your vet immediately.
Attempting Removal: When and How to Intervene
If you can clearly see the object and feel confident that you can safely remove it, you can attempt a gentle removal.
- Use Tweezers or Pliers (Carefully!): If the object is easily accessible, use tweezers or small pliers to gently grasp it and pull it out. Be extremely careful not to injure your dog’s mouth or throat.
- The “Sweep” Technique: If you can’t get a good grip with tweezers, try gently sweeping your finger along the inside of their cheek towards the throat, trying to dislodge the object. Only do this if you are certain you won’t be bitten.
If these attempts are unsuccessful or you are uncomfortable performing them, stop and seek veterinary assistance. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Contacting Your Veterinarian: When is it an Emergency?
Even if your dog is breathing, having something stuck in their throat warrants a call to your veterinarian. They can provide specific advice based on your dog’s breed, size, and medical history.
Consider it an emergency and seek immediate veterinary care if:
- Your dog’s breathing becomes labored or noisy.
- Their gums or tongue appear pale or bluish (cyanosis).
- They collapse or become unresponsive.
- You are unable to safely remove the object.
- Your dog is in significant distress or pain.
- There’s any bleeding from the mouth or throat.
When you call your veterinarian or emergency clinic, be prepared to provide the following information:
- Your dog’s breed, age, and weight.
- A description of the object you suspect is lodged in their throat.
- Your dog’s symptoms.
- Any first-aid measures you have already taken.
This information will help the veterinary team assess the situation and provide the most appropriate advice.
Veterinary Treatment: What to Expect
At the veterinary clinic, your dog will likely undergo a thorough examination. The veterinarian may use sedation or anesthesia to safely remove the object. This is especially important if the object is lodged deep in the throat or if your dog is anxious or in pain.
Diagnostic tests may include:
- X-rays: To help identify the location and nature of the object.
- Endoscopy: A small camera attached to a flexible tube is inserted into the throat to visualize the object and surrounding tissues.
Once the object is located, the veterinarian will use appropriate instruments to carefully remove it. After the removal, your dog will be monitored for any complications, such as swelling, bleeding, or infection. Pain medication and antibiotics may be prescribed as needed.
Post-Removal Care: Helping Your Dog Recover
After the object has been successfully removed, it’s important to provide proper aftercare to ensure your dog recovers fully.
- Follow your veterinarian’s instructions carefully: This includes administering any prescribed medications and monitoring your dog for any signs of complications.
- Offer soft food: For a few days, feed your dog soft, easily digestible food to avoid irritating the throat.
- Monitor for signs of infection: Check for redness, swelling, or discharge around the mouth or throat.
- Restrict activity: Avoid strenuous exercise for a few days to allow the throat to heal.
- Provide plenty of fresh water: Keep your dog hydrated.
- Observe their breathing: Monitor their breathing for any changes or difficulties.
Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice any concerning symptoms.
Prevention: Reducing the Risk of Future Incidents
Prevention is always better than cure. There are several steps you can take to reduce the risk of your dog getting something stuck in their throat.
- Choose safe toys: Avoid toys that are small enough to be swallowed or easily broken into pieces. Opt for durable, appropriately sized toys.
- Supervise playtime: Always supervise your dog when they’re playing with toys, especially if they’re prone to chewing.
- Avoid giving bones: While many dogs love bones, they can splinter and become lodged in the throat. If you do give bones, choose raw, larger bones and supervise your dog closely.
- Keep small objects out of reach: Store small items like coins, buttons, and jewelry in secure locations.
- Be careful with sticks: Sticks can splinter and cause serious injuries. Consider alternatives like durable chew toys.
- Regular dental checkups: Regular dental checkups can help identify and address any dental problems that could increase the risk of swallowing foreign objects.
- Train your dog: Teaching your dog commands like “leave it” and “drop it” can be invaluable in preventing them from swallowing dangerous objects.
Dog CPR
While your dog can breathe, it’s always a good idea to be prepared for the worst-case scenario. Knowing how to perform canine CPR can potentially save your dog’s life if they were to lose consciousness or stop breathing. Take a certified pet first aid and CPR course to learn the proper techniques.
Final Thoughts: Being Prepared Makes All the Difference
Having something stuck in their throat can be a frightening experience for both you and your dog. Knowing the signs, understanding what to do (and what not to do), and having a plan in place can make all the difference. Remember to stay calm, assess the situation carefully, and seek veterinary attention when necessary. By taking these steps, you can help ensure your dog’s safety and well-being.
What are the immediate steps I should take if my dog has something stuck in their throat but can still breathe?
The first crucial step is to remain calm. Your dog will sense your panic, which can worsen the situation. Carefully try to visually inspect your dog’s mouth. If you can see the object and it’s easily accessible, gently attempt to remove it with your fingers or tweezers, being very careful not to push it further down. If you can’t see the object or are uncomfortable reaching into your dog’s mouth, do not attempt to retrieve it yourself.
Immediately contact your veterinarian or a local emergency animal hospital. Even if your dog seems to be breathing normally, the object could still cause irritation, swelling, or a partial airway obstruction that could worsen. Explain the situation clearly and follow their instructions. They may advise you to bring your dog in for an examination and potential removal of the object under sedation.
What are the signs that my dog is still able to breathe adequately, even with something possibly lodged in their throat?
Adequate breathing signs include normal or near-normal breathing rate and effort. Look for consistent chest rise and fall without exaggerated movements or straining. Your dog should be able to vocalize, even if the bark sounds slightly different. Also, observe the color of their gums; they should be pink, indicating good oxygenation.
Keep a close watch for subtle changes. Even if initially breathing well, a partial obstruction can quickly worsen. Watch for any increased panting, coughing, gagging, or restlessness. Blue or pale gums are a serious sign of oxygen deprivation and require immediate emergency veterinary attention.
Why is it important to seek veterinary attention even if my dog can breathe with something stuck in their throat?
Even with seemingly adequate breathing, a foreign object in the throat can cause significant damage and potential complications. The object might irritate the tissues, leading to swelling and a delayed but dangerous airway obstruction. Sharp objects can cause lacerations or perforations in the throat or esophagus, leading to infection and serious illness.
A veterinarian can properly assess the situation, determine the location and nature of the object through examination or imaging (like X-rays), and safely remove it. They can also provide medications to reduce swelling, prevent infection, and manage any pain or discomfort your dog may be experiencing. Trying to resolve the issue at home risks further injury and complications.
What should I tell the vet when I call about my dog having something stuck in their throat?
When you contact the veterinarian, provide a concise and accurate description of the situation. Clearly state that your dog has something stuck in their throat but is still able to breathe. Describe the object, if you know what it is (e.g., a piece of bone, a toy fragment), and how long you suspect it has been lodged. Also, provide information about your dog’s breed, age, and any pre-existing medical conditions.
Explain any symptoms you have observed, such as coughing, gagging, difficulty swallowing, restlessness, or changes in breathing. It’s also helpful to share any recent activities that might have led to the incident, such as playing with a particular toy or chewing on a bone. This information helps the vet determine the urgency of the situation and prepare for your dog’s arrival.
What are some common items that get stuck in dogs’ throats?
Dogs, especially puppies, are curious and often explore the world with their mouths. Common culprits include pieces of toys (especially small squeakers or plastic parts), bones (particularly cooked chicken or rib bones that can splinter), rawhide chews (which can become gummy and difficult to swallow), sticks, and small balls.
Other potential hazards include clothing items like socks or fabric scraps, dental chews that are swallowed whole, and even food items that are too large or not properly chewed. It’s essential to be mindful of your dog’s chewing habits and to provide safe and appropriately sized toys and chews to minimize the risk of choking.
What can I do to prevent my dog from getting objects stuck in their throat?
Prevention is key. Choose toys that are appropriately sized for your dog and made of durable materials that are less likely to break into small pieces. Avoid toys with small, easily detachable parts, like squeakers or plastic eyes. Regularly inspect your dog’s toys for damage and discard them if they show signs of wear and tear. When giving treats or chews, select options that are easily digestible and won’t splinter.
Supervise your dog when they are playing with toys or chewing on bones. This allows you to intervene if they start to swallow something too large or break off a piece that could pose a choking hazard. Teach your dog the “leave it” command to prevent them from picking up potentially dangerous objects during walks or in the home. Additionally, keep small objects out of your dog’s reach to minimize temptation.
What are the possible complications if the object is not removed quickly and safely by a vet?
Delaying veterinary care can lead to a cascade of serious complications. The foreign object can cause significant irritation and inflammation of the throat, leading to swelling that can obstruct the airway, even if the initial obstruction was partial. This can result in difficulty breathing, oxygen deprivation, and potentially life-threatening respiratory distress. Damage to the esophagus can also occur, leading to pain and difficulty swallowing.
Furthermore, a lodged object can create a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to infection of the throat, esophagus, or even the lungs (pneumonia). In severe cases, a sharp object can perforate the esophagus, causing food and bacteria to leak into the chest cavity, leading to a serious and potentially fatal condition called mediastinitis. Prompt veterinary intervention is crucial to prevent these complications and ensure your dog’s safety and well-being.