RECOVER Guidelines: Newborn Resuscitation in Dogs and Cats. Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis With Treatment Recommendations

Objective: To systematically review the evidence on, to devise clinical recommendations for, and to identify critical knowledge gaps in resuscitation of newborn puppies and kittens. Design: Standardized, systematic evaluation of literature pertinent to newborn resuscitation following Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology. Prioritized questions were reviewed by Evidence Evaluators, and findingswere reconciled by Domain Chairs and ReassessmentCampaign onVeterinary Resuscitation (RECOVER) Co-Chairs to arrive at treatment recommendations commensurate with the quality of evidence, risk–benefit relationship, and clinical feasibility. This process was implemented using an evidence profile worksheet for each question that included an introduction, consensus on science, treatment recommendations, justification for these recommendations, and important knowledge gaps. Treatment recommendations underwent a modified Delphi consensus process and were then distributed to veterinary professionals for comment for 2 weeks prior to finalization. Setting: Transdisciplinary, international collaboration in university, specialty, and emergency veterinary practice.