Instructions
If the Dog is Gagging, Yet Still Conscious
Open the dog's mouth using both of your hands, and observe the back of the throat for anything that that may be obstructing its breathing. Attempt to remove the obstruction with your fingers if you see the object after inspection of the pet's throat.
Lay the dog on its side and raise its back legs if nothing causing the pet to gag can be seen.
Place one hand on the dog's back, and the other directly below its rib cage. Push inward and upward continuously with the hand under the rib cage, each time with a single rhythmic motion. Repeat this motion until the obstruction is cleared from the dog's breathing passage. Continue reading if the dog goes unconscious, and/or choking persists.
If the Dog is Gagging While Unconscious
Place the dog on it's side and lift its rear legs if you haven't already. This position will assist in the flow of oxygen through the animal's body while attempting to clear its airway of the obstruction.
Open the dog's mouth with your hands and gently pull the dog's tongue out and to the side. Observe the airway for any visible obstruction, and remove it with your finger tips if possible.
Place one hand on the back of the animal, and the other right below its rib cage. Push inward and upward in a single motion, for two-to-three repetitions.
Open the dog's mouth and airway again after the two-to-three compression repetitions. Remove any obstruction that the compression may have forced to the back of the throat with your finger.
Cuff the animal's snout with both of your hands, then blow a two-to-three short breaths into it with your mouth. Repeat the entire process of chest compression, airway observation, clearance with your fingers, and providing the dog with short artificial breaths until it is revived and no longer gagging.
How to Help a Dog Stop Gagging
Knowing how to stop your dog from gagging may mean the difference between life or death one day for your pet. Dogs are notorious for putting just about anything that fits into their mouths down the hatch, which can lead to obstructed breathing passageways. Whether your dog is conscious and currently choking, or unconscious from lack of oxygen, there are techniques you can administer to increase the likelihood of your pet surviving the experience. Help your dog stop gagging in under 5 minutes.