I'm feeling really conflicted and could use some advice. My 7-year-old Lab, Daisy, is going in for surgery next week to remove a tumor. She's been my rock through so much, and the thought of anything happening to her is tearing me apart. The vet gave me some forms to fill out, one of which is about whether I want CPR administered if something goes wrong during the surgery. I'm stuck because while I want to do everything to save her, I'm also worried about the trauma it could cause if she needs to go through CPR. Has anyone been in a similar situation or have any advice on how to make this decision? I just want to do what's best for Daisy, and I'm overwhelmed. Thanks for any insight or experiences you can share.
Hi there! It's completely normal to feel torn about this decision, and I'm here to help clarify things a bit for you. CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is an emergency procedure performed if your dog’s heart stops beating or they stop breathing during surgery. It can be life-saving, but it also involves risks, especially depending on your dog’s current health and age.
If your pup is relatively healthy, CPR might be a good option since it gives them a chance to recover from an unexpected event during surgery. However, for older dogs or those with serious medical conditions, a DNR (do-not-resuscitate) order could be more appropriate to prevent further distress or complications.
Discussing your dog’s overall health with your vet can provide more personalized guidance. At home, ensure your dog is well-prepared for surgery by keeping them calm and feeding them as advised. After surgery, monitor for signs of concern like difficulty breathing, excessive bleeding, or extreme lethargy, and contact your vet immediately if you notice these.
It's a big decision, and getting guidance from a vet through a video consult with Dial A Vet can offer you peace of mind. They can review your dog’s specific needs and help you make the best choice for your beloved pet.
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