As dog owners, we never want anything bad to happen to our pets.

But as much as we put precautions, danger can lurk in places we don’t expect. Dog toys, most especially, can be a ticking time bomb for a medical emergency.

Just last 2007, TV mogul Oprah Winfrey lost her beloved Golden Retriever Gracie when she choked on a plastic ball. It was an accident no one expected and one that can happen to any dog.

A similar situation happened in a video posted by Tiffany S’kalas on Facebook.

In the video, not only one, but two dogs were in grave danger when they swallowed and choked on toy balls.

Thanks to Dr. Kristie Williams, both lives were saved.

Fortunately for dog lovers, you can also learn the techniques used by Dr. Williams. This crucial intervention may be the only thing that stands between life and death for your pet.

So what do we do when our dog swallows a ball?

While there are several ways to remove obstructions in your dog’s airways, some of them can be a bit complicated or invasive. But this maneuver, called XXT or the external extraction technique, is a safe and effective intervention should you find yourself in a similar situation.

First, place the unconscious dog on his back.

Brace the back against the floor to hold them in position.

Next, straddle the dog.

Adjust your level depending on the size of your dog. This position can give you better leverage and stability.

Then, tilt the dog’s head closer to the floor until their airway is parallel to the floor.

Next, identify your landmarks: the ball locations, the trachea, and the mandible.

The mandible is the inverted v-shape jawbone. The trachea is the ringed tube where the throat connects to the lungs. The ball will most likely be a bulge in the dog’s throat.

Make a diamond shape with your hands then place your thumbs on either side of the trachea and below the ball. To secure the dog’s mouth and head, press your index and middle fingers against your dog’s lips or cheeks.

Then, push the ball up and out with your thumbs.

Follow the J-stroke pattern to dislodge and push the ball out of your dog’s mouth.

This maneuver is intended for dogs who have fully obstructed airways. The animal should also be unconscious as it can fight back, bite, or squirm dangerously.

Choking on balls or similar objects can also be avoided by choosing the right kind.

Evaluate the size and shape of the toys and assess if these can be considered choking hazards. Toys should also be inspected for holes and cracks as dogs can get their tongues trapped into these openings.

You can do your part to save your beloved dog.

As long as you’re equipped with the proper know-how, you can ensure that their playtime will always be fun and safe.

Learn the life-saving maneuver in the video below.

Please SHARE this with your friends and family.

Source: Facebook – Shels Sharma, Facebook – Tiffany S’kalas, People, Veterinary Partner