Understanding Veterinary Syringes and Needles

Giving animal medications by injection necessitates using the right veterinary syringe, the right size of needle, in the right body part. But syringes have a lot of use other than administering medications. Vets use it to extract blood for testing too. Many use it to force-feed sick animals.

Animal syringes do not differ from the type that is used for humans. Their structure includes a round cylindrical barrel, a plunger that is close-fitting, and the tip where needles are attached. They come in a range of sizes depending on the type of injection to be administered. For subcutaneous injections or those delivered onto the tissues beneath the skin, a one to three ml syringe is typically used. This would be the same syringe size for intramuscular injections. For adding medication to intravenous lines or for irrigating wounds, larger syringes are typically used.

Syringes are classified into two types, which are the Luer-Lok and non-Luer-Lok syringes. The classification is actually the distinction of the syringe tips. Luer-Lok are syringes whose tips use needles that can be twisted then locked to its place. The design prevents the needle from slipping out of the syringe accidentally and getting lost inside the body of the animal. Non-Luer-Lok syringes use needles that are pressed on the tip without twisting into place.

Many people would typically use any types of syringes for administering medicines to their pets but it is important to find syringes that have been specifically designed for use in the veterinary market. This is because they simply do the job well at the same cost. Syringes for animals typically have reinforced tips to hold the needles more firmly. They also have large finger grips for more secure handling. You get a smooth draw plus an easily readable graduation scale. They also have sturdy plungers for an effortless injection and a positive seal.

Many veterinarians and pet owners prefer the luer lock type of syringes. They say it saves them from having to be concerned about keeping the needle in place and not disappearing into the animal’s body. It is best to keep some of these syringes in a variety of sizes to suit different needs, particularly if you are a livestock owner.

Author: Todd Johnson
Email: Todd@australianwebsitedevelopment.com.au
Mobile: 0449 041 815