PULSE OXIMETRY

Human pulse oximetry probes (typically finger probes) are best placed on the tongue for optimal reliability in unconscious, sedated or anesthetized MWDs (Figure 20) but can also be placed on the prepuce or vulva. In conscious dogs, use the ear pinna, lip fold, or flank skin fold. Although these are not optimal for pulse oximetry, these alternate sites generally yield reliable results. Normal pulse oximetry for an MWD is greater than 95%.