Return to the Avian Home Page
Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation, or CPR, as it is called is a version of artificial respiration that includes assisting the heart to BEAT. The purpose of CPR is to keep oxygen moving to the lungs and blood circulating throughout the body. These directions APPLY TO BIRDS, although care is advised when doing CPR in some smaller, more delicate BIRDS. While these instructions may be good in an emergency, it is wise to check with your VET to establish the procedure that is best for your BIRD.
If your BIRD is NOT breathing use a finger or a swab to clear any mucus or other objects from the mouth. TILT the head back to straighten the airway passage. Do this VERY CAREFULLY so as not to injure the BIRD's neck.
Hold the mouth shut with one hand, and place your mouth over the BIRD's nostrils and mouth making sure the seal is tight.
Blow into the nostrils while watching to see if the chest expands.
If the chest DOES NOT EXPAND start over again by clearing the mouth. If the chest DOES EXPAND release your BIRD's mouth so it can exhale.
Repeat the breathing procedure once every five (5) seconds until your BIRD is breathing normally, or until your Vet or other Emergency technician is available to begin treatment.
PUT your BIRD on its right side.
PUT two finger tips on the ribcage.
Firmly press on the ribcage in quick, smooth movements. The compression should last no longer than 1/2 second.
Repeat this procedure a total of 10 times.
Then, if your BIRD is not breathing, perform CPR as described above.
Alternate between the chest compressions (10 in a row), and one breath into the BIRD's nostrils.
(Based on information contained in The Illustrated Veterinary Guide for Dogs, Cats, Birds, and Other Exotic Pets, By Dr. Chris C. Pinney, DVM.Published by Tab Books)
Rescue Links