Bulb Aspirator - When should I use it and how?

A Bulb Aspirator is an essential and affordable tool used to assist with clearing a puppy’s airways after birth, especially if the puppy has mucus blocking its nostrils or mouth or if the puppy is struggling to breathe. Newborn puppies can sometimes require assistance to start breathing if they have fluids in their respiratory tract.

When Should I Use a Bulb Aspirator?

To Clear Mucus. Newborn puppies may be born with amniotic fluid or mucus in their respiratory tract. This can obstruct their ability to breathe.

If a Pup is Coughing or Gasping. If a pup is struggling to breathe, coughing or gasping immediately after birth, a bulb aspirator can help remove mucous and stimulate breathing.

To Stimulate Breathing. In some cases, if a pup has not taken its first breath on its own, a bulb aspirator can assist to stimulate the puppy’s breathing.  

 How do I Use the Bulb Aspirator?

1. Ensure the bulb aspirator is clean to reduce the risk of introducing bacteria to the puppy’s airways. Wash with warm soapy water and rinse well and sterilise with a cold-water sterilisation such as Milton.
2. Test the bulb aspirator by squeezing the bulb to make sure it can expel air.
3. Hold the puppy gently, supporting its body with its head tilted downwards. Lowering the puppy’s head will help drain fluid from the lungs, mouth and throat.
4. Squeeze the air from the bulb aspirator and gently place the tip of the squeezed bulb into the puppy’s mouth or nostril. When clearing the nostrils, you will need to place the aspirator gently but firmly over the nostril to create a seal.
5. Release the bulb gently to allow air back in. This will pull mucous into the bulb.
6. Remove the bulb from the puppy’s nostril or mouth and clear the mucous from the bulb aspirator.
7. Stimulate breathing by rubbing (see below)
8. Repeat the process if necessary.

How Do I Monitor the Puppy?

Observe the puppy’s breathing after using the bulb aspirator. If the puppy is still struggling or fails to breathe normally, consider using the bulb aspirator again and stimulating breathing by rubbing. If the puppy is still not breathing, appears weak or still struggling to breathe normally, immediately contact a veterinarian for advice and assistance. 

How do I Stimulate Breathing by Rubbing?

Rub the puppy’s chest to stimulate respiration. The genital area or umbilical region can also be rubbed to induce reflex respiration.

Helpful Tips

• Be Gentle with Pups. A pup’s respiratory system is delicate so be gentle when inserting the aspirator.
• Keep the Pup Warm. Make sure the pup does not get cold as hypothermia can make breathing more difficult.
• Keep the Bulb Aspirator Clean. Cleaning and sterilising the bulb aspirator between uses will reduce the risk of contaminating airways.