If so, any ideas where I can get this type of training? Thank you in advance!
I have never been formally trained on injecting medication, but had a newer client ask me to watch their dog who requires twice a day insulin shots. I informed them that I've never administered insulin before, but was willing to learn! The owners came over for an extended meet and greet and showed me the process of how to administer the insulin. Then we timed the drop off to coincide with a shot, so they could watch me do it and I could ask any additional questions. I've since watched the pup multiple times and feel comfortable giving him his insulin! Additionally I knew I could contact the dog's vet if I had any major issues (shots were administered during business hours) so I felt okay learning 'on the job'.
yes, you should have some training. If you angle the needle too much, you may enter a muscle, go through the skin to the opposite side, or stick your own finger. I know that we make it look so simple and it is once you know what you are doing.
The other thing that you also need to take into consideration is that there is normally special instructions /protocol when dealing with certain injection medications. For example Insulin- Insulin needs to be refrigerated and mixed before giving. Very important to Roll the insulin and not shake it.
Giving injectable medication is easy once you know what you are doing but Yes, you should have some training on where to give, how to give, problems to look out for, handling the medications,ect. Your local veterinarian should be able to help you understand how to administer injectable medications along with provide you with handout.
Check with your Veterinarian many of them will charge you a small fee to teach you. It's pretty simple for most meds and dogs.
Its ok if you are medically trained in phlebotomy for human anatomy. The process is still the same technique for animals as it is humans. If you have the proper training, you can administer to animals after educating self in vein location of the animal. You still use tips of fingers to locate site.
