For deep-chested dogs, where should you place your hands during CPR?

• A. On the abdomen
• B. Further to the front of the chest directly over the heart
• C. Further to the back of the chest
• D. On the underside of the chest

Answer: (B)

In CPR you want to press directly over the heart so each compression pushes blood out into the circulation. For deep-chested dogs, the heart is positioned toward the front of the chest, so placing your hands on the cranial part of the chest directly over the heart ensures the compressions engage the heart itself and generate the most effective blood flow. Placing your hands on the abdomen, the back, or the underside of the chest wouldn’t efficiently compress the heart and would yield poor perfusion and higher risk of injury. So, the best location is on the front of the chest, directly over the heart.