Vets / Techs, question about Doom's IV

[Backward_Cinderella]

It seems like the fluid that is in it isn't dispersing (no idea if that's the right word) like its just been sitting there. The tech at the office said that there would be a packet of water there that would take a while to go away, but when I put the IV in (It just finished) the bump was still there, only it had sort of slid over to the side and was... hanging? I don't know how to describe it.

My question is, after beating around the bush for ever and a day, is this normal? Should it be taking this long to move throughout his body? Is he getting any hydration from this? Should I call his vet in the morning (if this is something that isn't right) or should I call an emergency clinic right now? Or is he fine?

 

[sheltervt]

It seems like the fluid that is in it isn't dispersing (no idea if that's the right word) like its just been sitting there. The tech at the office said that there would be a packet of water there that would take a while to go away, but when I put the IV in (It just finished) the bump was still there, only it had sort of slid over to the side and was... hanging? I don't know how to describe it.

My question is, after beating around the bush for ever and a day, is this normal? Should it be taking this long to move throughout his body? Is he getting any hydration from this? Should I call his vet in the morning (if this is something that isn't right) or should I call an emergency clinic right now? Or is he fine?

So, if I understand correctly, you're administering subcutaneous fluids with an IV fluid bag and line? How many mLs of fluids? How often?

 

[Backward_Cinderella]

1000 every eight hours, I just let it go from one mark she put on the bag to the next and then stop it. If it helps you, Doom has Parvo and that's what we're treating. Trying to keep him from dehydrating.

 

[SeniorPetLover]

It is just the fluid collecting under the skin (sub-q) and must absorb. This can take a little while. If your vet advised you to do the full 1000cc's at once, then I wouldn't worry. It is not unusual for there to be a "lump" after giving sub-q fluids. I have really small dogs and I usually don't give more than 100cc's at once and they will still sometimes take a while to absorb. I usually try to break it up and do it 3 times a day. I also try to alternate between the nape of the neck and the skin above the hip so they don't get too sore. The disadvantage of doing it multiple times a day is that they do get really sore and grumpy about being poked so often. I'm glad that you are making such good progress and he is feeling better. You will be a pro at this by the time you are done. All of your love and concern really go a long way in the healing process. I've had much greater success with home treatment versus hospitalization. No one is going to be as attentive and loving as you. Keep up the good work!

 

[sheltervt]

1000 every eight hours, I just let it go from one mark she put on the bag to the next and then stop it. If it helps you, Doom has Parvo and that's what we're treating. Trying to keep him from dehydrating.

Well, that's why we usually recommend smaller doses more frequently. Odd that your vet has you doing a full bag every eight rather than 300 mL every 3 hours or even 500 every four. Regardless, I would suggest that you alternate shoulders. Do one water balloon over the on the left side of the back, eight hours later fill up the right side.

Sorry for the lateness of the reply, by the way.

 

[Backward_Cinderella]

That's all right.
But its not any where NEAR a full bag. Its like a third of a bag, maybe a quarter. I get three and a half treatments out of one.

 

[sheltervt]

That's all right.
But its not any where NEAR a full bag. Its like a third of a bag, maybe a quarter. I get three and a half treatments out of one.

In that case, just alternate sides eaxh time you administer fluids.