Techniques for emergency airway and vascular access in special species

Abstract

Special species, such as rabbits, ferrets, rodents, parrots, turtles, and snakes, are becoming more popular as pets. Thus, it becomes more likely that a veterinarian may be presented with one of these species on an emergent basis. This article addresses the basic steps of vascular and airway access for each group of special species and will provide information on techniques that can be used to enable the clinician to quickly obtain basic diagnostics and provide the patient with emergency life support. This article also briefly describes methods for humane euthanasia of special species pets.