Be Prepared: CPR for Dogs & How To Perform It
As devoted pet owners, our dogs hold a special place in our hearts, and their well-being is a top priority.
While we hope for the best, it's crucial to be prepared for emergencies and have the knowledge and skills to handle them.
Dog CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is a life-saving technique that can make all the difference in a critical situation.
In this weeks issue of Parkevity by OpenPark, we will explore the benefits of knowing dog CPR, how to perform it, and when it's essential to act promptly to save our beloved furry companions.
This article is brought to you in partnership with Ready Pet Education, providing comprehensive, veterinary-supervised pet health education programs since 2018.
Benefits of Dog CPR
Dog CPR can be the difference between life and death for your dog in a medical emergency. Knowing how to perform this vital technique provides several benefits:
Immediate Response: By knowing dog CPR, you can take immediate action in case of an emergency, usually there is no "professional help" like in the human world when a dog collapses. No ambulance or first responders. We cannot call 911 for our dogs, but we can learn essential skills to help them.
Peace of Mind: Knowing you have the skills to handle emergencies can provide peace of mind, allowing you to act confidently and efficiently in stressful situations.
*Pet owners should never practice CPR techniques on their animal.
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How to Perform Dog CPR
Dog CPR involves a combination of chest compressions and rescue breaths, similar to CPR for humans. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Check for Responsiveness
Gently tap your dog and call their name.
Look for any signs of movement, responsiveness, or normal breathing.
Observe their chest to determine if they are breathing.
Check your dog's pulse by feeling on the inside of their back leg (femoral artery). It is a good idea to practice finding their pulse in day-to-day life so it is easier to find in case of emergency.
Step 2: Figure out a way to get to the vet!
Persons performing CPR should never attempt to drive. This is extremely dangerous.
Have a household member or friend drive while you perform CPR safely buckled in the car, with your pet on your lap.
Observe all road safety rules including wearing your seat belt.
Step 3: Begin Chest Compressions
If your dog is not breathing or showing signs of circulation, place them on their side on a firm surface.
Locate the heart area, just behind the elbow joint. For small dogs, use one hand, and for medium to large dogs, use both hands to perform chest compressions.
Push down about one-third to one-half of the chest width. Compress at a rate of 100-120 times per minute.
Step 4: Provide Rescue Breaths
After 30 compressions, give your dog two rescue breaths.
Close your dog's mouth and gently breathe into their nose until you see the chest rise*.
Repeat these cycles of compressions and rescue breaths until your dog shows signs of responsiveness or you arrive at the vet.
*Watch this area for chest rise & fall when delivering rescue breaths.
OpenPark is your go-to source for the tools and knowledge to make well-informed choices about your pet's wellness.
When to Perform Dog CPR
Dog CPR is designed for emergency situations, such as:
Choking: If your dog was choking and has fallen unconscious, begin dog CPR.
Cardiac Arrest: If your dog's heart has stopped, perform dog CPR immediately to restore circulation.
Near-Drowning: After removing your dog from water, perform dog CPR if they are unconscious and not breathing.
Learning dog CPR is a valuable skill that can save your dog's life in critical moments. By understanding the benefits of dog CPR, knowing how to perform it effectively, and recognizing when it's necessary to act, you can be the difference between life and death for your beloved furry friend.
Remember, while pet CPR can be life-saving, it is essential to seek professional veterinary help as soon as possible in any emergency situation.
Invest in your dog's safety and well-being by learning pet CPR, and embrace the confidence that comes with being prepared for any unforeseen circumstances.
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