Have a dyspneic, hypoxemic, hypercapneic dog or cat? Not sure when to put them on a mechanical ventilator or initiate positive pressure ventilation (PPV)? Dr. Lisa Powell, DACVECC, guest-podcasts for us on a few simple tips of when to decide to initiate PPV, including the 50:50 rule, certain pulse oximetry values, and even based off venous blood gas results. Check out this VetGirl veterinary podcast for more information. Questions? You can always contact us via our Contact Us page. Suggested reading: 1. Lee JA, Drobatz KJ, Koch MW, et al. Indications for and outcome of positive-pressure ventilation in cats: 53 cats (1993-2002). J Am Vet Med Assoc 2005;226(6):924-931. 2. Hopper K, Haskins SC, Kass PH, et al. Indications, management, and outcome of long-term positive-pressure ventilation in dogs and cats: 148 cases (1990-2001). J Am Vet Med Assoc 2007;230(1):64-75. 3. Edwards TH, Coleman AE, Brainard BM, et al. Outcome of positive-pressure ventilation in dogs and cats with congestive heart failure: 16 cases (1992-2012). J Vet Emerg Crit Care 2014;24(5):586-593. 4. Campbell VL, King LG. Pulmonary function, ventilator management, and outcome of dogs with thoracic trauma and pulmonary contusions: 10 cases (1994-1998). J Am Vet Med Assoc 2000;217(10):1505-1509.