Choking first aid: food or toy stuck

🚨 First-aid steps

1. 1Open the mouth: if the object is visible and easy to reach, remove it with fingers or fine tweezers
2. 2Not visible: for small dogs and cats — lift hindquarters up and give 5 firm back blows between the shoulder blades with the heel of your hand
3. 3Large dogs: stand behind, fist-lock around the belly above the navel, thrust inward and upward 5 times (Heimlich)
4. 4Check the mouth after each attempt — remove the object as soon as it loosens
5. 5Still struggling to breathe, or unconscious — go to the hospital immediately
6. 6Unconscious: lay the pet on its side, straighten the neck, start CPR and transport while continuing

⛔ Never do this

• ✕Don't blindly sweep unseen positions (pushes objects deeper)
• ✕Don't pour water down the throat
• ✕Don't skip the vet after the object comes out — laryngeal injury is possible

🏥 Go to the vet immediately if:

• ⚠Persistent coughing, gagging or labored breathing after removal
• ⚠Purple gums or loss of consciousness