These are first aid tips, please remember it is best to get your pet to the vet as soon as possible.
- Not breathing: use mouth to nose resuscitation. Close your pet’s mouth and cup your hand over his/her nose, try to form a seal with your hand and your face. Blow into the nostrils, if you see the chest rise you know it is working. Aim for about 5 breaths per minute. Don’t stop until your pet is breathing alone or your vet takes over.
- Heart not beating and not breathing: use nose to mouth resuscitation as above. Also perform cardiac compressions by pressing down on your pet’s chest just behind the point of the elbow. Use one hand over another. For small dogs and cats use one hand in a squeezing movement with fingers and thumb on opposite sites of the chest. Aim for 120 compressions per minute (as fast as you can). If your pet’s gums start to turn pink you know it is working. If you are alone give two breaths for every 20 compressions. Don’t stop until your pet is breathing alone or your vet takes over.
Before you come to the vet please ensure:
- You have directions to our clinic and our phone number (link to find us and contact us)
- If possible call us on the way so we can be expecting you
- You drive safely!