Hypoxia

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Hypoxia is deprivation of oxygen to the whole of the body (generalised) or just a part of the body (localised). Hypoxia is also called suffocation when the lungs are unable to get enough oxygen into the body. Causes include lung injury (e.g. collapsed lung), choking (foreign object trapped in airway/throat), trapped in confined space with inadequate air supply, carbon monoxide poisoning, inhalation of toxic fumes or gases, drowning, smoke inhalation (e.g.from a fire in a building).

First actions: If the dog is choking, try to remove any foreign body from the airway. The Heimlich Manoeuver can be used to dislodge an object if necessary. Try to help the dog breath freely again if possible. If an injury is seen, try to close the wound by holding the wound shut. Wrap something around the dog’s body, such as a sheet, scarf or bandage to hold the sides of the wound together. Do artificial respiration if dog is unconscious, stopped breathing or breathing is shallow & take the dog to an emergency clinic immediately. They will be able to give oxygen in large amounts to help the dog recover.

Please also see Hypoxemia (insufficient oxygenation of arterial blood).

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