How is an injection administered to a dog for ticks? - briefly
The veterinarian delivers a subcutaneous or intramuscular dose of a tick‑preventive medication, calibrated to the dog’s weight. The injection is placed in the scruff of the neck or the thigh, with the needle inserted at a 90‑degree angle.
How is an injection administered to a dog for ticks? - in detail
Injectable tick‑preventive products are administered subcutaneously, typically in the dorsal cervical region. The medication is formulated for a single dose based on the dog’s body weight; accurate weighing is essential to select the correct vial or syringe volume.
Before injection, verify the product’s expiration date, inspect the vial for integrity, and assemble a sterile 1‑ml syringe with a 25‑27‑gauge needle. Calculate the required dose, withdraw the exact volume, and expel any air bubbles by gentle tapping and pushing the plunger to the barrel.
Restraint should minimize stress and prevent injury. A calm environment, a leash, and a helper to hold the animal’s front legs are advisable. If the dog shows resistance, a muzzle or a gentle head‑holding technique may be employed, ensuring the animal’s airway remains unobstructed.
Identify the injection site: the loose skin between the shoulder blades, commonly referred to as the scruff. Stretch the skin taut with one hand to create a small “tent.” Insert the needle at a 45‑degree angle, bevel up, penetrating the subcutaneous tissue without reaching the underlying muscle. A brief pause allows the medication to flow; aspiration is not required for these formulations.
After the dose is delivered, withdraw the needle smoothly, release the skin, and apply gentle pressure with a sterile swab to prevent leakage. Observe the dog for a few minutes to detect any immediate adverse reaction such as swelling, vomiting, or lethargy. Record the administration date, product name, batch number, and dosage in the animal’s health log.
Schedule the next injection according to the product’s labeled interval, typically every 30 or 90 days, and repeat the described procedure for each subsequent dose. Regular monitoring of weight ensures dose accuracy throughout the treatment course.