CPR
CPR
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for pets follows similar principles to human CPR. While we hope you never need it, knowing the basics could save your pet's life in the critical minutes before reaching the vet. This guide is for emergency reference — always seek professional veterinary care immediately.
- CPR is only for pets that are unresponsive and not breathing
- Check for a heartbeat before starting CPR
- The ratio is 30 compressions to 2 breaths
- Compress the chest 1/3 to 1/2 its width
- Call the vet while performing CPR
- Continue until you reach professional help
When to Perform CPR
Only perform CPR if your pet is unresponsive, not breathing, and has no heartbeat. First, check responsiveness by calling their name and gently touching them. Look for chest movement and feel for a heartbeat on the left side of the chest, just behind the elbow. If there's no response, begin CPR immediately.
Step-by-Step CPR
1) Lay your pet on their right side on a firm surface. 2) For dogs: compress the widest part of the chest. For small dogs and cats: compress with one hand. For large dogs: use both hands stacked. 3) Compress 1/3 to 1/2 the chest width, at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. 4) After every 30 compressions, give 2 rescue breaths — close the mouth and breathe into the nose until you see the chest rise. 5) Continue until your pet starts breathing or you reach the vet.
Special Considerations
For very small dogs and cats, use your thumb and fingers to compress the chest. For barrel-chested dogs (Bulldogs, Pugs), CPR may work better with the dog on its back. If you're alone, perform CPR for 2 minutes before calling for help (or call on speaker while continuing). Don't stop CPR during transport to the vet.
After CPR
Even if your pet revives, they need immediate veterinary care. There may be underlying heart or lung problems that caused the arrest. Pets that have been without oxygen may have brain or organ damage that needs treatment. Transport carefully and keep your pet warm.
- Any time you perform CPR — your pet needs professional care
- Your pet has been revived but seems confused or weak
- After any near-drowning or choking episode
- If your pet collapsed suddenly
- Any loss of consciousness
RVC
RVC's emergency team is trained in advanced CPR and critical care. We're available 24/7. If you're performing CPR, call +853 6677 6611 so we can prepare for your arrival.
+853 6677 6611