Antibiotic injections are an important part of care for many sick dogs and are usually administered by veterinary staff. If your pet has a chronic condition, he may need an injection more often than you can conveniently go to the vet, though. Learning to administer intramuscular antibiotics at home allows you to save money on vet bills and reduce your pet's stress level while he's sick.
Things You'll Need
- Sterile syringe with medication
- Alcohol
- Cotton balls
- Towel
- Needle disposal container
Instructions
Place your dog on a non-slippery, stable surface and have an assistant help you restrain him. Don't use excessive force---only apply enough to keep your dog in place and prevent thrashing.
Choose the injection site. According to the University of Arizona, intramuscular injections are often given in the thigh muscles on the front of the hind leg or the hamstring muscles on the back of the leg. You may also give intramuscular injections in the triceps muscle on the foreleg or the dorsal lumbar muscles on your dog's back. Ask your veterinarian to suggest the correct injection site for your dog.
Clean the injection site. Part the hair around the site and swab it gently using a cotton ball soaked in alcohol.
Uncap the sterile syringe. Be careful not to touch the needle itself. Tell your assistant that you're getting ready to give the injection. Proper communication helps you avoid unpleasant surprises.
Insert the needle into the skin and muscle at a 90-degree angle using one slow, continuous motion. Insert the needle its full length. Your dog may jump or startle.
Depress the plunger to administer the injection. Make sure it empties completely.
Withdraw the needle using the same smooth motion required to insert it. Do not twist or angle the syringe while removing it. Dispose of the entire syringe using a correctly labeled container dedicated to needles.
Massage the injection site. Gently rub your hands over the area to encourage the medication to dissipate and to help your dog feel more comfortable.