The use of a Welch Allyn laryngoscope as an aid to intubation makes the procedure safer and more efficient and allows rapid insertion of the endotracheal tube before contact contraction occurs. A light source should always be used to visualize the larynx because available room light is often inadequate, even with large animals. Welch Allyn laryngoscopes provide a direct source of bright white light, and—in our fiber optic blades—cool distal illumination.

For brachycephalic canine breeds, small dogs, puppies, cats, rabbits, and skunks, the use of a laryngoscope is highly recommended because it is not feasible to use the finger palpation technique in many of these patients.

The curved MacIntosh and Miller blades are especially effective in lifting the patient’s epiglottis upward. The tongue can then be pushed aside with the vertical portion of the blade, which is designed for this purpose.