RECOVER CPR Basic and Advanced Life Support Courses

RECOVER CPR – BLS

The RECOVER CPR – BLS Course teaches the latest evidence-based techniques for recognizing and managing cardiopulmonary arrest (CPA) in veterinary patients. Participants will learn rapid CPA assessment, high-quality chest compressions tailored to patient size and anatomy, and ventilation techniques used during CPR.

After completing this course, you will be able to:

• Rapidly identify cardiopulmonary arrest using the RECOVER Initial Assessment Algorithm
• Perform effective chest compressions in dogs and cats
• Understand ventilation approaches during CPR and when to use them

Authored by Daniel J. Fletcher, PhD, DVM, DACVECC, Associate Professor of Emergency and Critical Care at the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, this course teaches the RECOVER Initiative’s evidence-based BLS guidelines.

Successful completion earns RECOVER BLS certification. This course is also a prerequisite for the RECOVER CPR – ALS online course.

RECOVER CPR – ALS

The RECOVER CPR – ALS Course builds on Basic Life Support and focuses on advanced interventions used during cardiopulmonary arrest. Participants learn how to improve oxygen delivery, support circulation, and correct underlying physiologic abnormalities such as arrhythmias and metabolic disturbances.

After completing this course, you will be able to:

• Use the RECOVER ECG Algorithm to identify arrest rhythms (asystole, PEA, ventricular fibrillation, pulseless ventricular tachycardia)
• Develop appropriate drug therapy plans, including vasopressors, anti-arrhythmics, fluids, and electrolyte correction
• Safely use defibrillation and understand its role in shockable rhythms
• Adapt treatment strategies for prolonged arrest cases
• Apply effective communication and team-based crisis management techniques

Authored by Daniel J. Fletcher, PhD, DVM, DACVECC, Associate Professor of Emergency and Critical Care at the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, this course teaches evidence-based ALS guidelines from the RECOVER Initiative.

Successful completion earns RECOVER ALS certification.

RECOVER CPR – BLS and ALS Recertification Courses

RECOVER BLS and ALS Recertification Courses are designed for veterinary professionals who have previously completed RECOVER CPR training. Certification is valid for two years and must be renewed through recertification to maintain active status.

Recertification is required to maintain status as a RECOVER Certified Rescuer® or RECOVER Certified Instructor®.

Important: Recertification must be completed before your certification expires. There is no grace period. If your certification lapses, you must retake the original courses. We recommend tracking your expiration date and enrolling early to avoid missing the recertification window.