How to Administer CPR to Your Dog: A Lifesaving Guide

At Ruby's, we understand that our pets are more than just animals; they are beloved members of our family. In an emergency, knowing how to administer CPR to your dog can make the difference between life and death. While we hope you never have to use this skill, being prepared is essential. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you administer CPR to your dog if the need arises.

Recognizing the Need for CPR

Before starting CPR, check if your dog needs it. Look for the following signs:

• Unconsciousness: Your dog is not responding to touch or sound.

• No Breathing: Check if your dog is breathing by watching for chest movement or placing your ear near their mouth and nose.

• No Heartbeat: Feel for a pulse by placing two fingers (never your thumb) on the inside of the hind leg at the point where it meets the body.

Step-by-Step CPR for Dogs

1. Ensure Safety

First, make sure the area is safe for both you and your pet. Move your dog to a flat surface.

2. Clear the Airway

Open your dog’s mouth and check for any obstructions. If you see something blocking the airway, carefully remove it.

3. Check for Breathing and Pulse

Confirm that your dog is not breathing and does not have a pulse. Remember, CPR should only be performed if both breathing and heartbeat are absent.

4. Position Your Dog

Lay your dog on their right side. This ensures that the heart is positioned correctly for chest compressions.

5. Chest Compressions

For small dogs and puppies (under 30 pounds):

• Place one hand around the back of the dog and the other hand over the chest just behind the elbow.

• Compress the chest to 1/3 to 1/2 the width of the chest, at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.

For medium to large dogs (over 30 pounds):

• Place one hand on top of the other over the widest part of the chest.

• Compress the chest to 1/3 to 1/2 the depth of the chest, at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.

6. Rescue Breaths

Close your dog’s mouth and extend the neck to open the airway.

• Place your mouth over the dog’s nose and exhale until you see the chest rise.

• Give one rescue breath every 6 seconds (10 breaths per minute).

7. Cycles of CPR

Perform 30 chest compressions followed by two rescue breaths.

• Continue this cycle for 2 minutes, then recheck for breathing and pulse.

8. Seek Veterinary Help Immediately

Even if your dog starts breathing or has a pulse after CPR, it is crucial to get them to a veterinarian immediately. They may need further treatment to ensure their stability.

Tips for Effective CPR

• Remain Calm: Staying calm will help you perform CPR more effectively.

• Strength and Speed: Ensure that compressions are strong and fast enough to be effective.

• No Long Pauses: Minimize interruptions between compressions and rescue breaths to ensure continuous blood flow.

Final Thoughts

We at Ruby's care deeply about the well-being of your pets. Knowing how to administer CPR can be a lifesaver in an emergency. While we hope you never have to use this knowledge, being prepared is the best way to protect your furry friends.

For more information on pet care and emergency preparedness, visit Ruby's regularly for updates and useful tips.