Subcutaneous Fluids

A. Ensure the plastic roller clamp is rolled tight so fluid does not leak out. This clamp is used to control fluid flow.

B. Remove the cover from the spike, and push the spike into the port at the bottom of the bag after removing the rubber plug from the port. Take care not touch the spike to maintain cleanliness.

C. Hang the bag from the loop at the top (the higher the better to allow gravity to aid flow). Remove the cap from the lower end of the fluid line.
Open the roller clamp and allow fluid to flow through the line. Hold over a sink or bucket to avoid spillage.
Squeeze the chamber so that the fluid fills to about halfway to prevent bubbles from entering the fluid line.
Turn off the roller clamp once the line is full and free from bubbles.

D. Attach a needle to the lower end of the line

A. Carefully remove the plastic cap from the needle. One hand should hold the needle at the hub (avoid touching the needle itself which would contaminate it).

B. With the fingers of the other hand, the scruff (the skin between the shoulder blades) should be lifted to form a ‘tent’.

C. The needle should be inserted gently and smoothly into the "tent" that has been formed, keeping the needle parallel with your pet's back, so that the tip of the needle is positioned in the space between the skin and the back muscles. A swift, slightly firm motion is often better tolerated compared to gentle pressure when inserting the needle.

D. Take note of the starting amount and determine how much fluid you should give based on the vet's advice. Roll the roller clamp so that fluid flows into your pet. A fluid bulge will be visible.

E. Once the desired amount has been administered, close the roller clamp and swiftly remove the needle. A small amount of fluid may leak out, this can be reduced by gently pinching the skin over the hole. Put the cap back on the needle and discard the needle safely.