04 - Unconsciousness

Objectives:

Know the correct procedure in the case of an unconscious dog that is breathing.

An unconscious animal is predisposed to respiratory distress that can cause respiratory or circulatory failure if no intervention is undertaken.

The Causes:

They can be traumatic, medical or toxic.

The risks;
- respiratory arrest;
- obstruction of the airway by the tongue or by the flow of liquid (saliva, stomach contents, blood) in the trachea.

Action to be Taken:

Monitor the dog's consciousness:
- snap your fingers;
-whistle;
-call the dog by its name (if known).

Assure that the air passage is unobstructed:
- open the mouth and pull the tongue, leaving the head extended.
- if the dog is in respiratory arrest, pull the tongue several times to trigger the respiratory reflex.

Lie the dog on his side (in foetal position)... if possible with its head in a declined position.

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