Internet's favorite dog can't actually perform CPR, experts say
Chances are you may have gone all 'awws' and 'OMG!' after seeing a viral video of a dog performing CPR on a fallen police officer. In the clip, the dog (whose name is Poncho) jumped on an officer's chest, and at one point even heard his breath to ensure he was alive. But can a dog really perform CPR? Actually not, opined experts.
In video, dog gets to action after officer falls
The video was posted by Municipal Police of Madrid on Twitter last week and has gone viral since, making Poncho a hero. In the clip, an officer pretends his unconsciousness. Next, the 'paw-some' creature swings to action, pressing the man's chest, to revive him. The department tweeted Poncho didn't hesitate to save a man's life in a masterful way. Undoubtedly, the video is adorable.
Here is the viral video of star Poncho
Poncho tries best to save a life, but can he?
While Poncho's efforts to save a life are commendable, it isn't actually possible that he could perform CPR. Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation is used on those suffering cardiac arrests to ensure blood flows to brain, till medical experts arrive. There are two ways to go about it: mouth to mouth and hands-only, that includes chest compressions. In the video, Poncho can be seen performing the second one.
Experts say video is cute, but dog didn't perform CPR
Ronnie Johnson, lead trainer at Global Training Academy, said a dog can't actually perform CPR as it requires precision and strength. Jonathan Epstein, senior director of science for Red Cross also agreed. He explained in hands-only CPR, the person performing it must push 2 inches into patient's chest at a rate of 100-120 compressions/minute. Undoubtedly, a difficult task for a dog! Nevertheless, we still adore Poncho.
