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Canine Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (AIHA & IMHA) - Need advice for getting a good blood sample
| Does any one have any tips on how to get a blood draw for a PCV when the dogs veins are small and always seem to roll when they stick the needle in? Last night Ginger went to the vet for her monthly PCV check and they had such a hard time getting blood from her and she must have gotten stuck at least 10 times before they got a small sample that the vet tech said "was just barely enough for the test". The test results came back at 33 and they had been 40 the last time she was checked. I did not feel that was an accurate reading based on the sample and asked for a retest (Patrice would have been so proud). The tech could not get another sample and had to call in the vet and she could not get one either, but finally after Ginger being stuck again several times they decided to shave a spot on her neck and try there and after a few more times of being stuck they got enough blood to fill a small tube. I am so glad Ginger was a good sport about it but I don't want this to happen again, they always have such a hard time getting blood from her but this time it was especially bad. Does anyone have any tips or suggestion on how to find a good vein, they also tried front legs and back legs? The PVC results of the second test were 41 and to me that was a big difference so it was worth getting the second sample but I felt soooo bad for Ginger. This also shows how important a good sample really is. |
| Cheryl & Ginger Pineville PA |
| I don't know if this has been tried but my vet takes it from my dogs front chest. When she was hospitalized they saved her chest and yesterday they drew from there too. She is not very small at 28 pounds....not sure about her veins, they have never said. :) Amy |
| amy txgoldenhorse@yahoo.com |
| Tiggs' blood was tricky to get for a while. They take it now between his neck and chest. Before, they used a turniquet on his back leg. I hate when they have to poke around so much, they go through so much! |
| melissa slc |
| Cheryl, Sorry you had so much trouble. Good to ask for a second one. Had this problem with Chance when he was on high doses of prednisone. This causes tissue dehydration and makes it very difficult to get a good blood draw. Take the skin on the nape of the neck and pull it up gently. If it sort of stays up there stiffly before relaxing, there is dehydration. Makes blood drawing very hard. Make sure that you ask nicely for the *most expert tech* (or the vet) on the staff to do this draw for you. What was happening on the first draw was that blood cells were being damaged drawing through the needle as they banged around against the side of the tube. Simple mechanical damage. If you don't need a full cbc, it might be worthwhile to just have a small pcv drawn and spun. Less blood will be required. Be suspicious of the results of any blood draw that is this difficult. Try to schedule the appt during the day when you know your dog is more hydrated (but not after eating, make these tests on a 8-10 hr fast). patrice |
| Patrice NYS |
| The test can be taken from anywhere, but the neck (jugular veins)is ideal. Most vets prefer this method as well. They are nice and fat usually, but always better than the cephalic or leg veins. Cats don't like it much, but I find a good phlebotomist can make them forget :) Also, FYI...for just a pcv..you need less than .50 ml..so not a lot is needed. We always run two, as do most hospitals. More is always better as a rule, but not necessary. |
| Courtney SLO |
This thread was discussed on 16/12/2008
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