What to do if a dog's heart stops? - briefly
If a dog's heart stops, immediately initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Perform chest compressions by placing the dog on its side, locating the heart, and applying firm, steady pressure at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. If available, use a defibrillator as directed by a veterinarian. After starting CPR, contact a veterinarian or emergency clinic immediately for further instructions.
What to do if a dog's heart stops? - in detail
If a dog's heart stops, immediate and decisive action is crucial to increase the chances of survival. The first step is to remain calm and act quickly. Panic can cloud judgment and waste precious time. Assess the situation to ensure it is safe for both you and the dog. Remove any potential hazards from the area.
Begin by checking for a pulse. Place your hand on the dog's chest, just behind the front leg, and feel for a heartbeat. If no pulse is detected, start cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) immediately. The technique for CPR in dogs differs slightly based on the size of the dog. For small dogs, use the following steps:
- Place the dog on a flat surface.
- Position your hands on either side of the chest, just behind the front legs.
- Compress the chest at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. The depth of compression should be about one-third to one-half the width of the chest.
- After 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths. To do this, close the dog's mouth and breathe into the nose until the chest rises. Then, allow the chest to fall before giving the next breath.
- Continue the cycle of 30 compressions and two breaths until the dog shows signs of life or until veterinary help arrives.
For large dogs, the procedure is slightly different:
- Place the dog on its side on a flat surface.
- Kneel beside the dog and place one hand on top of the other over the widest part of the ribcage.
- Compress the chest at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. The depth of compression should be about one to two inches, depending on the size of the dog.
- After 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths by closing the dog's mouth and breathing into the nose until the chest rises.
- Continue the cycle of 30 compressions and two breaths until the dog shows signs of life or until veterinary help arrives.
If possible, have someone else call a veterinary emergency clinic or animal poison control center while you perform CPR. Provide them with details about the dog's condition and follow any additional instructions they may give. Time is of the essence, and every second counts when dealing with a cardiac arrest in a dog.
Once veterinary help arrives, they will take over and provide advanced care, which may include defibrillation, administration of medications, and further resuscitation efforts. The veterinarian will also assess for any underlying causes of the cardiac arrest, such as heart disease, poisoning, or trauma, and address those issues accordingly.
It is essential to note that performing CPR on a dog can be physically demanding, and it is important to take turns if there are multiple people available. Ensure that the dog is kept warm during the resuscitation efforts, as hypothermia can worsen the situation. Use blankets or towels to cover the dog and maintain body heat.
In summary, if a dog's heart stops, the immediate initiation of CPR is vital. Knowing the correct technique for the dog's size and maintaining composure are critical factors in providing effective care. Always seek professional veterinary assistance as soon as possible to increase the chances of a successful outcome.