Dogs differ anatomically and physiologically in several key areas compared to humans. Knowledge of these differences will assist providers when managing MWDs.

Most MWDs are German Shepherd Dogs, Belgian Malinois and Labrador Retrievers, with a weight of 50 to 80 pounds (23 – 36 kilograms). Dose drugs based on actual body weight whenever possible.

VENOUS BLOOD SAMPLING & IV CATHETERIZATION SITES

Use the cephalic or lateral saphenous vein for routine blood sampling, drug administration, and routine intravenous (IV) fluid therapy. Use the external jugular vein for long-term IV fluid therapy, large volume fluid delivery, and repeated blood sampling.

Cephalic Vein

Figure 1 shows the location of the cephalic vein on the cranial (anterior) forearm. The accessory cephalic vein and cephalic vein join in a Y-shaped configuration distal (toward the carpus or wrist). Figure 2 shows proper technique for occlusion of the cephalic vein. An assistant will occlude the vein by extending the elbow joint and occluding the vein while rolling the vein outward at the elbow. Figure 3 shows proper location of an IV catheter in the cephalic vein.