  |
|||
|
|
|
||
|
Posted by Charla Dawson Jun 13, 2006 |
Fluids are given to rehydrate pets and administer life saving medications. A sick and/or dehydrated animal will not be able to metabolize any medications it may need and a dehydrated animal may have kidney and liver problems, making fluid therapy even more important.
IV fluids are given through an IV catheter. These catheters are usually placed in the cephalic vein in one of the front legs, placement of the catheter should be done by someone who has both knowledge and skill in catheter placement. The area where the catheter is to be placed should be clipped and cleaned, as if for a surgery. Once the catheter is properly placed it is taped to the patients leg in order to keep the catheter secure while the pet is hospitalized.
The IV catheter acts as a port, fluids and medications can now be administered directly to the venous system for rapid distribution. IV catheters are also used for pets under going anesthesia and in emergency situations where a patient needs treatment for shock. IV catheters are an important tool for treating sick pets and are priceless in an emergency when medications are needed to save your pets life.