Why is it important to prepare my dog for blood collection?
Having your dog properly prepared before blood collection helps to ensure that test results are as accurate and reliable as they can be. Sometimes abnormal test results say more about how the dog was prepared than about true illness. Having confidence in the results avoids unnecessary worry, and eliminates the need for repeat testing to verify the results.
For some special tests, there may be specific preparations that are essential for the success of the test. These may involve specific fasting periods, withdrawal of medication, or administration of medication. If special tests are planned, your veterinarian will provide the necessary details in before your appointment.
Any routine visit to the veterinarian may include collecting a blood sample, and if your dog is not feeling well, it is even more likely that the veterinarian will want to take a blood test. You may be able to save valuable time by having your dog properly prepared before your visit.
How do I prepare my dog for routine blood collection?
1. The first step is to fast your dog before the appointment. If possible, take food away (but not water) for 4 to 6 hours prior to the appointment. This allows the dog to clear fats from the bloodstream that may be present following eating. Fat in the blood stream (called lipemia) may interfere with some blood tests, making the results difficult to interpret
2. Be sure the dog has access to water. Even mild dehydration may introduce changes in blood results, so keeping the dog well hydrated, especially in warm weather is important.
3. Avoid exercise or active play just prior to your visit, since either can introduce changes into blood test results.
4. Try to keep your dog calm. This may be difficult if the dog is nervous or frightened. Having your dog on a leash at all times helps to maintain control, and reduces the opportunity for confrontation with other pets in the waiting room. Handling the dog calmly and using a soothing tone of voice may help to reduce anxiety. If the waiting room is busy, you may wish to let your dog wait in the car (weather permitting) to reduce excitement.
5. Minimize stress. If your dog is highly excitable and the veterinarian suspects that this may contribute to changes in the test results, you may be asked to bring your dog in at a time when the clinic is quiet, as a way to minimize the stress associated with blood collection.
SPECIAL PREPARATION FOR YOUR DOG’S NEXT VISIT
Date of next appointment: _______________________________________
Dog’s Name: _____________________________________
Test to be performed: ______________________________________
Please follow these steps to prepare for your next visit to the veterinarian:
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
Based on material written by Kristiina Ruotsalo, DVM, DVSc, Dip ACVP &
Margo S. Tant BSc, DVM, DVSc. and modified with permission from Lifelearn Inc.
© Copyright 2004 Lifelearn Inc.
