How to Get a Puppy Out of a Vent

When a small puppy becomes stuck in a confined, hidden space like a vent, the ultimate objective is to retrieve the puppy as quickly and safely as possible. Unless the puppy is within sight and can be simply pulled to safety, the puppy will probably need to be cut out. Since vents are usually located within walls and the puppy's location within the vent is uncertain, rescuing a puppy safely can be a delicate procedure.

Things You'll Need

  • Stud finder
  • Circular saw
  • Circular saw blades
  • Hand mirror
  • Flashlight
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Locate the puppy. Follow the sound of the puppy's barks or cries to determine the general area in the wall vent in which it became stuck. This is usually at a bend, joint or narrowing of the vent duct work. To narrow down the location, run a stud finder along the length of the vent. If still unsure, tap your finger along the length of the vent duct, listening for a difference in the sound.

    • 2

      Once the puppy's general location is determined, cut the puppy out of the vent. The easiest way to do this is to use a circular saw with a titanium blade to cleanly go through the drywall or wood and metal duct. If necessary, use a masonry blade to cut through brick or concrete. Make four small, quick plunge cuts, forming a square in the center of the duct. Be sure to make your cuts a safe distance, at least 12 inches, away from the general location of the puppy to avoid injury. Do not cut through wall studs.

    • 3

      Using a hand mirror and flashlight, locate the exact location of the puppy and carefully pull it out. Inspect the puppy for cuts or broken bones sustained from a fall into the vent. To be safe, it is best to take the puppy to a licensed veterinarian for a full physical examination.