How to properly inject insulin in a long-haired diabetic dog?

Question

I have a diabetic dog. He has been on insulin for about 10 days. He has long hair, so it is difficult to make a tent of skin before the injection. I do not feel the injection is being done properly. I have had training at the vet, but when I do it at home I am not sure he is getting the medicine. Questions: 1. do I position the needle parallel to the body or at a 45 degree angle? 2. The needle is longer than the skin is deep. Do I push the needle all the way in? If not, how far? Thank you. Pet's info: Dog | American Eskimo Dog | Male | neutered | 10 years and 7 months old | 40 lbs

Megan, DVM, CVA · Accepted Answer

I know giving injections is daunting but I bet you are already doing a wonderful job. I like to use the skin behind the neck or between the shoulder blades. Pinch it up to make a "tent". Stick the needle in the center of that tent and parallel with the body. If you are using an insulin needle, you could be able to go all the way to the hub. Afterwards, the fur shouldn't be wet in that area. If it is then you may be putting it in the hair and not the skin. If you are unsure, you could always schedule an appointment at your vet clinic for someone to WATCH you do it so they can give you any helpful hints on what to do differently. If they don't have a time available for when the actual insulin is due to be given, just ask them to put some saline in the syringe and you can inject that for the demostration. I hope this helps!

How to properly inject insulin in a long-haired diabetic dog?

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