The cuff of an automatic device is usually administered around one of the dog’s limbs or around the base of the tail. If using a limb, it’s best to measure on the dog’s right side at either the forearm (antebrachium) of the front limb or the outside of the hind leg. [3] X Research source
The ideal size for a blood pressure cuff is approximately 40 percent of the dog’s appendage circumference. When you lay the cuff flat against the leg or tail, the edges should be between 25% and 50% of the appendage’s circumference.
Hold the cuff (attached to the dog’s appendage) at chest level on the dog, which should be approximately the height of the dog’s heart. [7] X Research source The normal systolic blood pressure range is between 110 and 160 mm of mercury (Hg). Normal diastolic blood pressure lies between 60 and 90 mm Hg. [8] X Research source A dog has high blood pressure if its systolic blood pressure is consistently above 180 mm Hg.
If you’re using the right front forearm, trim the fur over the palmar metacarpal artery (just above the joint that hinges and leads to the paw, or the equivalent of a wrist). If you’re using the right hind leg, trim the fur over the plantar metacarpals (the outside of the equivalent to the flat of a foot). For both the front and hind legs, you’ll need to trim the fur under the paw (which is where the Doppler will be applied). You can use either paw, but the fur must be trimmed down between the pads of the paw. If using the base of the tail, trim the fur over the underside of the tail.
Connect the cuff to the sphygmomanometer to the cuff. Its base reading should show a pressure of 0 mm Hg.
The acoustic gel should be applied to the concave side of the Doppler probe, as this is the surface that will be placed against the skin. Once the gel has been applied, press the probe firmly against the skin above the chosen artery.
The limb should be held approximately level with the dog’s heart. This should be roughly at chest level if the dog is lying on its side. Inflate the cuff to about 20 mm Hg higher than the anticipated systolic blood pressure. You should not hear any whooshing sounds (arterial pulsations) at this pressure. Let the cuff slowly deflate and mark down the pressure at which you can hear the whooshing sounds again. This figure is the systolic arterial blood pressure.
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Check the nutritional label on your dog’s food and any treats you commonly give your pet. Look for foods that are low in fat. You may want to consider restricting your dog’s sodium intake as well. Give your dog plenty of exercise. Take your dog for at least one 30 minute walk each day, but be sure to bring plenty of water for your pet. Consider measuring and restricting how much food you give your dog with each meal. You can find charts that will help you determine your dog’s ideal caloric intake by searching online.
Dogs with high blood pressure should have their blood pressure checked by a vet every few months. Your vet may recommend one or more medications, either to dilate the blood vessels (to lower your pet’s blood pressure) or to treat the underlying condition causing hypertension. [17] X Research source Which medication your vet recommends will depend on how high your pet’s blood pressure is and what underlying condition(s) your dog has.
