Pet CPR

Only perform CPR if the pet has NO heartbeat and is NOT breathing. Before starting, confirm your pet is unconscious, not responding to stimuli (like pinching toes), and has no detectable breathing or pulse. Check pulse inside the thigh (femoral artery) or feel for heartbeat on the chest.

When to Perform CPR:

• Pet is unconscious and not responding
• No chest movement indicating breathing (watch for 5-10 seconds)
• No heartbeat or pulse detectable
• Gums appear blue-grey, white, or very pale

CPR Steps (Based on RECOVER Guidelines):

Ideally performed with two people: one does compressions, one does breaths. If alone, prioritise compressions.

1. Check for response & breathing. Shout pet's name, gently shake shoulder. Watch chest for movement.
2. If unresponsive and not breathing (or only gasping): Position pet on their right side (usually) on a firm surface. Flat-chested breeds (e.g., Bulldogs) may need compressions on their back.
3. Airway: Quickly open mouth, pull tongue forward, check for & remove visible obstructions. Be careful not to get bitten.
4. Compressions: Aim for 100-120 compressions per minute. Depth should be 1/3 to 1/2 the width of the chest. Allow full chest recoil between compressions.
   • Small dogs (<10kg) & Cats: Place one hand over the heart (where elbow meets chest) or use two hands encircling the chest behind the elbows.
   • Medium/Large dogs (>10kg): Place hands over the widest part of the chest. Lock elbows, use body weight.
   • Deep/Keel-chested dogs (e.g., Greyhounds): Compress directly over the heart.
   • Flat-chested dogs (e.g., Bulldogs): May need to be on their back, compress over the sternum.
5. Breathing (after 30 compressions): Extend neck slightly, ensure tongue isn't blocking airway, close mouth tightly. Place your mouth over pet's NOSE forming a seal. Give 2 breaths (1 second each), watching for chest rise. Avoid over-inflating.
6. Cycle: 30 compressions : 2 breaths.
7. Continue: Perform cycles for 2 minutes, then quickly re-check for pulse/breathing (max 10 seconds). If none, resume immediately. Continue until pet shows signs of life (breathing, coughing, movement), professional help arrives, or you are unable to continue.