What to do if you encounter a drowned dog

I hope that everyone had a good weekend and your dog has been safe.

Like most of us in the summer, we like to swim. Dogs are no different, however, accidents do unfortunately happen.

They can fall into pools and or lakes unprepared and when weakened, can swallow water and debris hence drowning.

Before anything, make sure that the airway is clear of any debris and tongue moved forwarded as mentioned in other emergency posts before artificial resuscitation.

After you have cleared the airway, hold the dog just above the hooks on the hind legs to allow as much water as possible to drain from the lungs. The unconscious dog can be moderately shaken, however, do not shake vigorously.

If it is still not breathing, lay it on it's side for artificial resuscitation.

The position for artificial resuscitation for a drowned dog is different than that covered in previous entries.

Lay the dog on it's side with the head in the lowest possible position. Lift the hind legs as high as possible to drain the water. Before starting mouth-to-nose, allow 30 seconds for drainage. Continue until the dog starts to gasp.

Luv Sheila & Freedom