Police officer saved choking Shih-Tzu using modified Heimlich Manoeuvre

Harry, a 10-year-old Shih Tzu that stopped breathing while choking on a piece of raw hide, is expected to make a full recovery after a police officer performed a version of the Heimlich Manoeuvre.

Officer Thomas Lazure, of West Hartford, Conneticut, who is trained in basic first aid for dogs, was called to 99 Norwood Road on Monday afternoon on reports of a choking dog. He responded because there was no animal control officer available around.



Family members were frantic after Harry stopped breathing, police said. Lazure pressed the dog's rib cage, allowing a piece of raw hide to loosen.

The officer then retrieved the raw hide from Harry's mouth and the dog began breathing again, authorities said. Harry was taken to the veterinarian and was reported to be in good health on Tuesday.