Page 85 - 2026 SMOG

MWD AIRWAY MANAGEMENT
Mechanical Ventilator Settings and Key Parameters
PARAMETER NORMAL LUNGS ABNORMAL LUNGS
FiO 2 100%, then reduce to <60% 100%, then reduce to <60%
Tidal Volume (Vt) 5–15mL/kg 5–15mL/kg
Breathing Rate (f) 8–20bpm 8–20bpm
Minute Ventilation (VE) 150–250mL/kg/min 150–250mL/kg/min
Peak Inspiratory Pressure (PIP) 10–20cmH O 15–25cmH O
2
2
Positive End Expiratory Pressure 0–2cmH O 2–8cmH O
2
2
(PEEP)
Trigger Sensitivity –2cmH O or 2L/min 2cmH O or 2L/min
2
2
Inspiratory: Expiratory Ratio (I:E) 1:2 1:2
Inspiratory Time ~ 1 sec ~ 1 sec
Notes, Cautions, Warnings
• Unconscious MWDs: use tracheal insufflation, orotracheal intubation, or tracheostomy
• If the obstruction cannot be removed in a few seconds, consider tracheal insufflation with
oxygen and perform a tracheostomy.
• Intubation of the MWD is most easily performed with the dog in sternal position, head and
neck extended, and tongue pulled forward. Verify placement by palpating the neck for 1 tube.
If 2 tubes are felt, the tube is in the esophagus.
• Capnometer reading >10mmHg also ensures correct placement.
• The mediastinum in dogs is thin and typically ruptures; therefore, always tap both sides of
the chest, even if a positive tap is achieved on one side of the chest, as air will form pockets
and migrate.
Reference: K9 CPGs

2026 Standard Medical Operating Guidelines (SMOG) • 77