Installation of an intravenous cathter in a dog

We start by shaving the hair on the paw where the catheter will be inserted. Then, we clean and disinfect the skin to prevent bacteria from entering the animal’s bloodstream.

This picture shows a animal health technician applying pressure on the animal’s vein to make it stand out while holding the animal’s leg. 

A second technician inserts the catheter into the vein. Blood is visible in the blue part of the catheter, which proves that it is well positioned and functional.

A cap is screwed on the catheter’s end to avoid the blood from spilling everywhere. The catheter is then stabilized and secured in place with medical tape.

Finally, a bandage will be wrapped around the leg, over the catheter to protect it further.

If the animal is to receive intravenous fluids, the cap a the end of the catheter is removed and the fluids’ tubing is fixed in it’s place.

The administration rate is then set on a fluid pump to give the animal just the right amount of fluids it needs.