Smoke Inhalation in Dogs At the outset, stabilization of the
respiratory function and establishment of an effective airway
will be the most important. Severe upper airway swelling or
obstruction may require intubation or an operation to make an
opening in the trachea. Oxygen should be administered
immediately after rescue from the fire to displace carbon
monoxide from hemoglobin (the oxygen carrying pigment of the
blood). It will be delivered by mask, hood, oxygen cage, or
nasal line. After elimination of carbon monoxide, oxygen
supplementation will be continued at 40 to 60 percent as needed.
Fluid administration may be required in patients with shock to
support cardiovascular function but should be conservative, if
possible, to minimize a buildup of fluid in the chest. Blood or
plasma transfusions may be necessary to add fresh red and white
blood cells to the blood stream. Nutritional support may be
needed to maintain body condition and immune status. Living and
Managment Your veterinarian will want to caref