CPR

Sometimes I (Vivian) like to google pet news in the morning just to see if there is something interesting I should blog about, and today I found an article from the L.A. Times that caught my attention. The article was in response to a poll that was conducted where 58% of the people asked, said that they would try and do CPR on their pet if they stopped breathing. This got me to thinking, how many out of that 58% know the proper way of giving CPR to animals? Most people remember their ABCs when beginning CPR.
A. Airways- Make sure that there is nothing in the mouth. If something is blocking the airway lay your pet down on his side then gently tilt the head slightly back to extend the neck and head. Do not overextend the neck in case there has been neck trauma. Pull the tongue out of your pet's mouth and carefully use your fingers to sweep for any foreign material or vomit from the mouth. Be careful, even an unresponsive dog may bite on instinct.
B. Breathing- Make sure your pet is breathing if he is allowing him to lay in the most comfortable position and contact your Veterinarian immediately! If he's not, you will need to perform CPR on your pet
C. Circulation- Check for a pulse then begin chest compressions. Please make sure that your pet is on a hard surface. A barrel chest dog (bulldogs and pugs) does better on their backs. All other breeds should be on their side. Kneel down next to the animal with their back near you. Extend your elbows and cup your hands on top of each other, then place you cupped hands over the ribs at the point where the raised elbow meets the chest. Size is how you determine how many compressions and breaths your pet needs. For a small pet (less than 30LBS) compress the chest about 1 inch at a rate of twice per second. Begin 5 compressions for each breath. After 1 minute, stop and check for a heartbeat. Continue if the beat has not resumed. For an animal 30-100 pounds compress the chest 2 to 3 inches at a rate of 1.5 to 2 times per second, but still apply 5 compressions per breath. If your pet is over 100 pounds apply 10 compressions for each breath. Check for a heartbeat after 1 minute and continue if none is detected.
I do hope that this blog helps you in case you every have the help save your pets life. Remember the most important thing is to get them to your Veterinarian ASAP! They have the proper medications and tools to save lives. After 20 minutes the chances of revieving an animal is unlikely.

http://www.family-vet.com/
http://www.blogger.com/appointments@family-vet.com


24650 South Point Dr Ste 140
Chantilly, VA 20152
(703)327-8425