How to give an injection to a dog for a subcutaneous tick? - briefly
Clean the area, pinch the skin, insert the needle at a 45‑degree angle into the subcutaneous layer, and deliver the medication. Hold the dog gently and discard the needle following proper veterinary safety protocols.
How to give an injection to a dog for a subcutaneous tick? - in detail
Administering a sub‑cutaneous injection to a dog for tick control requires careful preparation, precise technique, and post‑procedure monitoring.
First, gather all necessary materials: sterile needle (typically 22‑25 G, ½‑inch), appropriate syringe, the tick‑preventive medication, alcohol swabs, disposable gloves, and a clean surface. Verify the drug’s dosage according to the animal’s weight and the manufacturer’s instructions.
Second, restrain the dog gently but securely. An assistant may hold the animal’s head and forelimbs while the injector stands beside the dog’s left side. Apply a pair of gloves to maintain hygiene and reduce stress for the animal.
Third, select the injection site. The area between the shoulder blades offers a thin layer of sub‑cutaneous tissue, minimal muscle, and low risk of hitting vital structures. Clip any hair if necessary, then clean a 2‑inch radius with an alcohol swab, allowing it to dry.
Fourth, prepare the syringe. Draw the exact volume, expel air bubbles, and ensure the needle is firmly attached. Hold the syringe like a pencil, with the thumb at the plunger and the index finger supporting the barrel.
Fifth, insert the needle. Pinch the skin to create a tent, then insert the needle at a 45‑degree angle, bevel up, into the sub‑cutaneous layer. The needle should glide without resistance. Once the tip is beneath the skin, depress the plunger smoothly to deliver the medication.
Sixth, withdraw the needle swiftly, release the skin, and apply gentle pressure with a sterile gauze pad to minimize bleeding. Dispose of the needle and syringe in a puncture‑proof container.
Finally, observe the dog for several minutes. Look for signs of immediate adverse reactions such as swelling, excessive licking at the site, or respiratory distress. Record the injection details—date, time, drug, dose, and site—for future reference.
Repeating the procedure at the interval recommended by the product label maintains effective tick protection and supports the animal’s health.