Where should I inject Combilipen into my dog?

Where should I inject Combilipen into my dog? - briefly

Inject Combilipen into your dog subcutaneously (under the skin) on the back of the neck or between the shoulder blades. Avoid using the legs due to potential nerve damage.

Where should I inject Combilipen into my dog? - in detail

Injecting Combilipen into your dog requires careful consideration and adherence to specific guidelines to ensure the medication is administered effectively and safely. Combilipen, a combination of penicillin G benzathine and procaine, is typically given via intramuscular injection due to its prolonged-release properties. Here’s a detailed guide on where to inject Combilipen into your dog:

  1. Site Selection: The preferred sites for intramuscular injections in dogs are the cervical (neck), epaxial (along the back near the spine), and gluteal (hip) muscles. Among these, the epaxial muscle is often recommended as it provides a large mass of muscle tissue and minimizes the risk of injection into nerves or blood vessels.

  2. Epaxial Muscle Injection: To administer Combilipen in the epaxial muscle:

    • Locate the spine by running your fingers along the dog’s back from the neck to the base of the tail.
    • Identify the prominent muscles on either side of the spine. These are the epaxial muscles.
    • Part the hair gently with your non-dominant hand to expose a small area of skin.
    • Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab to reduce the risk of infection.
    • Insert the needle at a 90-degree angle into the muscle, ensuring it penetrates deeply enough (typically about half the length of the needle).

  3. Gluteal Muscle Injection: If you prefer or need to use the gluteal muscles:

    • Position your dog on its side with the leg extended.
    • Locate the hip joint and feel for the prominent muscle mass adjacent to it.
    • Clean the injection site as described above.
    • Insert the needle at a 90-degree angle into the muscle, ensuring it penetrates deeply enough.

  4. Cervical Muscle Injection: The cervical muscles can also be used but are less common due to their smaller size and proximity to important structures:

    • Position your dog with its head slightly elevated.
    • Locate the prominent muscle on either side of the neck, just behind the ear.
    • Clean the injection site as described above.
    • Insert the needle at a 90-degree angle into the muscle, ensuring it penetrates deeply enough.

  5. Safety Precautions:

    • Always use a new, sterile needle for each injection to prevent infection and minimize discomfort.
    • Avoid injecting into the same site repeatedly to prevent muscle damage and fibrosis.
    • Monitor your dog after the injection for any signs of adverse reactions or pain.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that Combilipen is administered safely and effectively to your dog. Always consult with a veterinarian if you have specific concerns or questions about the injection process.