How to Administer Oxygen to a Dog

Make sure you're prepared if your dog needs you.

We tend to think of our dogs as invincible. They leap fearlessly from great heights, approach strangers without hesitation and defend us courageously from would-be criminals. Like us, though,dogs also suffer medical emergencies. If the time comes when you must administer oxygen to save your dog's life, make sure you're prepared and know how to use an oxygen mask.

Things You'll Need

• Oxygen mask
• 100 percent oxygen source

Instructions

1. Lay your dog on his side. Reach into your dogs mouth to make sure there are no objects obstructing his airway.

2. Bring your dog's muzzle slightly down and forward toward you to prevent his tongue from slipping into the back of his throat and impeding oxygen flow.

3. Connect the tube of the oxygen mask to your oxygen source and turn the power on. This will start the flow of oxygen through the mask.

4. Apply the mask to your dog's snout by gently sliding it directly over his snout so it covers his nose and mouth.

5. Hold the edge of the mask firmly around the dog's snout so the most oxygen possible is delivered.

Tips & Warnings

• There are a few sizes of oxygen masks: miniature, small and large. Try them on your dog before there's an emergency so you know exactly which one to use when the moment comes.

• If your dog is not breathing, administer the oxygen, then call your veterinarian right away.

References

• Louisiana State University: School of Veterinary Medicine; Oxygen Supplementation; Steven L. Marks