First Aid Kit

Drowning and artificial respiration

Drowning and artificial respiration

Most, but not all dogs are good swimmers. Until you determine your dog’s abilities in water take precautions to protect him. Dogs have been known to drown in steep-sided pools that they cannot clamber out of , or by falling out of pleasure boats. 

Remove the dog’s collar and start first and by lifting him up by his hind legs to drain the water from the lungs. If he’s too large to lift, lay him on his side on a sloping surface, with his head lower than the rest of the body. 

If he has stopped breathing, place him on his right side ( with head and neck extended ) and give artificial respiration. Clear any mucus or foreign objects from his mouth and draw his tongue forward. Place your hands over his ribs immediately behind the shoulder blades. Press down suddenly but gently, then immediately release the pressure. This should be repeated at five-second intervals. To deep the rhythm reasonably correct as you work, say “ out goes the bad air” and press down : “ in comes the good air” and release. Keep at it. Do not give up. 
The moment breathing starts, let the dog inhale a little aromatic spirits of ammonia. When he is fully conscious and can swallow, give a few drops of whisky well diluted with water. Wrap him in a warm blanket and get him to a veterinarian.