Intravenous Injections In Pigs

4.8.6 Intravenous Injections in Pigs An intravenous injection is usually given to pigs in an ear vein. Carefully restrain the pig with a snare and place an elastic band or rope around the base of the pig's ear. Clean off the ear and wait for the ear veins to fill up with blood. The largest vein is usually a vein that runs along the back edge of the ear flap.

Choose a vein that is full of blood and easy to see. Insert a 19-gauge needle and thread it into the vein as far as possible. This minimizes the possibility that the needle will slip out of the vein if the pig shakes its head or resists. Attach the syringe and withdraw slightly on the plunger to verify that the needle is still in the vein. If it is, blood will enter into the syringe. Release the elastic band before injecting. Then push the plunger to give the injection.

CAUTION: The ear veins of pigs are fragile. IV injections must be administered slowly to avoid rupturing the vein. Excellent restraint is essential!