How to Give Canine Insulin Shots

Dogs with diabetes or insulin deficiencies take a little extra care, but can still lead happy, healthy lives. You can give your dog its insulin injections at home with some preparation and a little training. If you make your dog's insulin injection part of your daily routine, it can be a quick and easy process that will ensure your dog's health and well-being.

Things You'll Need

• Syringe
• Bottle of insulin
• Single-use syringe

Instructions

Insulin injection for your dog

1. Obtain your insulin and syringes from a licensed veterinarian. If your veterinarian has diagnosed your dog with diabetes, she will prescribe and fill your insulin prescription. Once your dog has been diagnosed, you can obtain your supplies online from pet supply vendors by supplying your veterinarian's information. Note that insulin requires refrigeration and will require overnight shipping.

2. Take the cap off of the single-use syringe. If you are not using a disposable syringe, shake the insulin bottle well, then insert the needle. Extend the plunger until the syringe is filled with the prescribed amount. For either type of syringe, point the needle upward, then gently tap the syringe with your finger a few times. Depress the plunger very slightly until you see a drop of fluid appear on the needle. This ensures that the needle is not blocked, and no air is in the syringe. Air in a syringe is not fatal, but it will make the injection more comfortable for your dog.

3. Locate your dog's scruff, which is the area on the back of the neck and above the shoulder blades. The scruff is very hardy tissue, and is usually the most comfortable place to inject your dog with insulin. Massage the scruff first to relax your dog, and then lightly pinch an area of scruff skin between your thumb and fingers with your non-dominant hand.

4. Use your dominant hand to pierce your dog's skin with the needle. Depress the plunger slowly but firmly with your finger. Most insulin injections will only take a few seconds to complete. Make sure the plunger is completely depressed and no insulin is left in the syringe.

5. Gently remove the needle and recap the syringe. Massage your dog's scruff to make sure he's comfortable. If you are using a single-use syringe, properly dispose of it and do not attempt to reuse it.

6. Praise your dog to ensure he's not upset. Most dogs don't react very strongly to insulin injections, particularly if they are used to the injection process. It's always a good idea to give your dog praise, so he sustains a positive attitude toward the injection process.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are properly injecting, there shouldn't be any blood emanating from the injection site. If you find bleeding after an injection, the needle is being inserted too deeply. It needs to be under the skin, but should not be inserted to the hilt.

• If your dog is very active, it's a good idea to have someone hold him still as you complete the injection.

• Your dog should seem healthy and happy after an injection. If you notice any erratic behavior or lethargy, consult your veterinarian immediately.

• Don't leave syringes uncapped when not in use.

• Do not use insulin that has not been kept properly refrigerated.

References

• 1-800 Pet Meds
• Medi-Vet