STATE-OF-THE-ART OF RESUSCITATION OF DOGS AND CATS

This article reviews the present state of the art of resuscitation of dogs and cats. The purpose of resuscitation is to revive animals so th at the vital functions resume together with a normal brain function. R esuscitation must be starred as soon as the cardiopulmonary arrest has been confirmed. Adequate ventilation and effective circulation to the most vital body organs, the heart and the brain, have the highest pri ority. They can be achieved by endotracheal intubation, artificial ven tilation with 100% oxygen and rhythmic compression of the closed chest or direct cardiac massage following thoracotomy. Medical therapy is a n important part of resuscitation. In the absence of a central venous route, deep endotracheal administration is the preferred method of adm inistration. Most medications can be administered through the endotrac heal tube in this fashion. A high dosage of adrenaline (0.2 mg/kg) is advised. The routine use of calcium, sodiumbicarbonate or large volume s of infusion fluids is discouraged. After successful resuscitation, a ll patients must be monitored intensively.