[8] Ringer's lactate solution is commonly used for fluid resuscitation after blood loss due to trauma, or surgery.

[9][10] It is extensively used in aggressive volume resuscitation, e.g. for patients with pancreatitis, hemorrhagic shock or major burn injuries.

[12] In a large-volume resuscitation over several hours, Ringer's lactate solution maintains a more stable blood pH than normal saline.

Ringer's lactate solution alkalinizes via its consumption in the citric acid cycle, the generation of a molecule of carbon dioxide which is then excreted by the lungs.

They increase the strong ion difference in solution, leading to proton consumption and an overall alkalinizing effect.

To maintain electrical neutrality, the solution has a lower level of sodium than that found in blood plasma or normal saline.

[4] In the 1930s, the original solution was further modified by American pediatrician Alexis Hartmann for the purpose of treating acidosis.

[21] Ringers lactate should not cause an elevated blood-lactate level except possibly in the most severe presentations of liver failure.

Administering the fluids subcutaneously allows the solution to be readily given to the animal by a trained layperson, as it is not required that a vein be located.