CPR is used when an individual stops breathing to help keep blood and oxygen flowing through the body to protect vital organs. Pets can also succumb to injury or have an accident that puts their life at risk. CPR can be performed on pets to help sustain life just like with people. The technique is different, but the purpose and function remain the same. The best pet first aid course includes CPR training. CPR and 1st aid certification programs for pets can be found online. These online courses provide the greatest flexibility in scheduling and allow you to work at your own pace and study when it’s convenient for you. A CPR and first aid license can be obtained upon completion of your pet CPR certification course. Your newly obtained CPR certified card in pet CPR and first aid is an accomplishment to be proud of and can lessen stress or anxiety during a medical emergency because you’ll already know what to do and how to do it.
If you find that you dog has been injured and has stopped breathing, you will need to perform CPR after you have confirmed there is no heartbeat. CPR is performed with chest compressions. Chest compressions can vary in technique depending on the size and shape of your dog. If your dog is small, the heel of your hand can be placed directly over the heart using one hand and with the animal on their side. Place your second hand on top of the first hand. For deep chested dog breeds, place the heel of your hand over the widest part of their chest with one hand. The dog will be on their side in this position as well with the second hand placed over the first hand. If your dog is barrel chested, the position of the dog changes and the dog will need to be placed on their back for CPR chest compressions. One hand will be placed at the sternum and the second hand will be placed over the first hand. To start chest compressions from any of these positions, you will want to straighten your elbows and lean forward so that your shoulders are parallel to your hands. Chest compressions that are done quick and hard can be administered at a rate of 120 compressions per minute.
Just like CPR on people, you will give 30 chest compressions and then rescue breaths. Rescue breaths can be given to dogs by covering your dog’s nose with your mouth. You should see their chest rise up from the rescue breaths they receive from you. Two rescue breaths are given and then CPR chest compressions are started again. The cycle of 30 compressions and 2 rescue breaths can continue until you are able to make it to an emergency care animal clinic or until the animal starts to breath on their own. You should check for breathing and a heartbeat frequently to determine is CPR is still required. It is recommended that you check for breathing every 2 minutes. A dog first aid class with CPR training can help you feel comfortable knowing that you’ll know how to save your pet if they should ever get hurt or become involved in an accident that requires CPR. CPR first aid online courses save lives and the lives of our pets too. Learn how to save a life today and sign up for CPR training online!
