- Pulse oximetry probes used for people (typically finger probes) are best placed on the tongue for optimal reliability (See Figure 20) in unconscious, sedated or anesthetized dogs. In conscious dogs, use the ear pinna, lip fold, or flank skin fold; while not optimal for oximetry, these alternate sites generally yield reliable results in most instances.
Figure 20. Placement of Human Pulse Oximeter Finger Probe on Tongue
Figure 20 shows a technique for placement of standard human pulse oximeter finger probe on the tongue of an anesthetized dog.