Severna Park Veterinary Hospital CPR/DNR

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A cat sitting on a dock near water

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) / Do Not Resuscitate (DNR)

Emergencies can occur unexpectedly in veterinary patients despite appropriate monitoring and care. If your pet experiences cardiopulmonary arrest, meaning the heart and/or breathing stops, veterinary staff need to act immediately. Because cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is an invasive intervention, it is important that your wishes are clearly understood in advance.

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

CPR consists of emergency medical interventions performed when a patient’s heart and/or breathing has stopped. CPR may include chest compressions, placement of a breathing tube and assisted ventilation, emergency medications, and rapid placement of IV catheter. CPR may result in complications such as chest injury and injury due to oxygen deprivation.

Despite advances in veterinary medicine, overall survival following CPR in dogs and cats is low. Approximately 5-20% of patients survive to go home after CPR These figures reflect population averages and do not predict individual patient outcome

Do Not Resuscitate (DNR)

A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order means that if your pet experiences cardiopulmonary arrest, CPR will not be initiated. Comfort-focused care and appropriate medical treatment will continue, but chest compressions, emergency medications to restore circulation, and intubation will not be performed. A DNR order applies only if cardiac and/or respiratory arrest occurs and does not mean that your pet will receive less attentive or compassionate care.

Post-Arrest Considerations

Return of heartbeat does not equate to recovery. Patients that regain a heartbeat often require intensive monitoring and advanced supportive care for hours to days. The risk of re-arrest is highest within the first 24 hours following resuscitation. We may recommend transfer to Anne Arundel Veterinary Emergency Clinic (AAVEC) for continued post-arrest care, depending on your pet’s condition.

Financial Considerations

CPR and post-arrest care may involve significant medical resources and expense. Costs vary depending on the patient and duration of care but may include approximately $500–$2,000 or more for the CPR event itself. Financial investment does not guarantee survival or recovery.