What is a defibrillator (AED) and how does it work?
An AED is an Automated External Defibrillator designed for humans (but developed by testing it on dogs!). A defibrillator delivers an electric shock that stops the heart and enables the heart’s back up pacemaker mechanism to revert it into a working rhythm. The AED will only work if they are in a shockable rhythm (ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia). If the casualty is experiencing one of these rhythms their heart will no longer be beating effectively (cardiac arrest) and they will be unconscious and not breathing normally. An AED can be used (in conjunction with CPR) to try and restore a normal rhythm.
Human AEDs can successfully record cardiac electrical activity in dogs – perform an ECG. They can also recommend when they are in ventricular fibrillation or tachycardia and a shock is indicated.
Learning CPR increases their chance of survival
The chances of a dog or cat surviving a cardiac arrest are slim. However, if they receive prompt and effective CPR and they have experienced a sudden medical emergency, such as drowning, choking or suffocating (rather than having complex medical needs) then the odds are much better. Cats have a better chance of recovery than dogs, but if your dog experiences a cardiac arrest knowing how to give CPR could be critical to their survival.
Some important things to know about defibrillating a dog:
Defibrillation in dogs and cats has only been studied in veterinary practice. So, in the hands of calm, extremely well-trained veterinary professionals. It is not mainstream and is not part of the RECOVER guidelines for members of the public to try on their dog or cat!
This information is being shared as general interest.
When to defibrillate
Defibrillation is most effective when it’s performed as quickly as possible after the dog or cat loses consciousness and stops breathing. With the best results happening within 20 seconds. The likelihood of a successful defibrillation attempt decreases by 10% for each minute of delay.
The importance of CPR
Whether for pets or humans, an AED should always be used in conjunction with CPR. CPR (Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation) keeps the heart and brain full of oxygenated blood and aims to prevent brain damage.
A recent study found that AEDs can successfully record cardiac electrical activity in dogs and often recommend delivering a shock when needed. The key conclusions were:
“Human AEDs can successfully record cardiac electrical activity in dogs. AEDs appropriately recommend delivery of a shock most times, contingent on skin preparation. Dogs with double, long, or heavy haircoats should be clipped prior to pad application. ECG paste will aid AED reading in all haircoat types. Further investigation is warranted into AED use in dogs, particularly in general practices.”
Research using human defibrillators (AEDs) on dogs and cats (which you can read here) found that AEDs can successfully record cardiac electrical activity in dogs and recommend delivering a shock when needed. The key conclusions were:
“Human AEDs can successfully record cardiac electrical activity in dogs. AEDs appropriately recommend delivery of a shock most times, contingent on skin preparation. Dogs with double, long, or heavy haircoats should be clipped prior to pad application. ECG paste will aid AED reading in all haircoat types. Further investigation is warranted into AED use in dogs, particularly in general practices.”
A few important points:
- Shaving the dog or cat’s coat was really important for the AED to work properly. The pads need to stick really well to their skin.
- The study was performed by veterinary professionals, who knew what they were doing
- Using an AED on a dog or cat by concerned pet owners is not recommended as part of the RECOVER guidelines.
Human AEDs aren’t licensed for use in pets and will not be optimized for veterinary use. However it is good to know defibrillation could potentially be an option when every second counts and there is nothing else to lose. Maybe have a chat with your Vet about it next time you are there?
About us
Written by Emma Hammett for First Aid for Life
Award-winning first aid training tailored to your needs
It is strongly advised that you attend a practical First Aid for Pets course or take our online course to understand what to do in a medical emergency. Please visit https://firstaidforlife.org.uk, https://www.firstaidforpets.net or call 0208 675 4036 for more information about our courses.
First Aid for Life is a multi-award-winning, fully regulated first aid training provider. Our trainers are highly experienced medical, health and emergency services professionals. They will tailor the training to your needs. Courses for groups or individuals at our venue or yours.
First Aid for Pets provides this information for guidance. It is not in any way a substitute for veterinary advice. The author does not accept any liability or responsibility for any inaccuracies or for any mistreatment or misdiagnosis of any person or animal, however caused.