Remove the cover from the fluids
Remove plastic cap from spike
Push/twist the spike into the fluids
Remove protective cover from end of tubing
Open drip set cut off
Open clamp and run fluids to the end of the tubing – close the valve
Snap open needle, keep needle covered and place on the end of fluid set using sterile technique
Fluid set filled with fluid and capped ready for pet
Pick up scruff of skin to tent it and lay needle at base of tent
Pull the needle over the skin
Hold needle in place until required fluid amount is finished
Recap needle when finished
If during the administration, the drip rate in the chamber is slow, reposition the needle. If this does not work you will have to place the needle in a new spot. The fluids will accumulate under the skin, causing a large bulge. Over time this bulge will be absorbed.
Note: If the bulge has not been absorbed before the next time fluids are to be given, it may mean that the pet has poor circulation, or that the pet does not need more fluids. Please notify us if this is happening.
There are several new catheters and ports that are now available that can be surgically placed into your pet that keep you from having to stick your pet every time with a needle. These devices can be placed and have been successful for years in some pets that require long term fluid therapy. If you or your pet seems excessively distressed by this process please let us know and we can consider if this system is an option for you.
Skin Button
The skin button is placed half on top of skin and half subcutaneously using biopsy punch to make the hole. Then it is sutured in place with a purse-string. It has a dacron seal that attaches to the skin over time. Infection is prevented by using newer injection ports and not just the blunt needles shown.
GIF Tube
The GIF tube is slightly more reliable and also uses a port cannula to prevent contamination and subsequent infection of needles.
Companion Port
The companion port is surgically implanted and the tubing is inserted into a vein usually the jugular vein, I have used this for chronic renal failure in larger dogs.
