Ref Code: PIG12

Category     

Teaching - 2

Research - 4

Objective

To deliver appropriate solutions for subcutaneous absorption.

Alternatives to animal use for teaching

Practice on abattoir material.

Details of procedur

Pigs may need to be restrained depending on age and the volume of the injection. To reliably deliver injected material into the subcutaneous tissues use either:

1.         a short needle (12mm) directed perpendicularly to the surface of the skin; or

2.         a longer needle (25mm) directed at an angle to the skin surface.

It is recommended that subcutaneous injections should be made in the soft skin behind the ear, the soft skin of the flank, or behind the front leg. Behind the ear is the favoured site because of possible carcase condemnation. With smaller pigs, shorter needles may be used. Needle gauge depends on the viscosity of the solution and the thickness of the pig's skin. An 18 gauge needle is usually required in adult pigs.

Drugs, chemicals or biological agent

Use only drugs, chemicals or biological agents recommended for subcutaneous delivery. The use of chemicals in NSW is controlled by the Poisons and Therapeutic Goods Act 1966 and the Stock Medicines Act 1989. Take care that sterile solutions remain sterile during delivery.

Impact of procedure on wellbeing of animal(s)

The procedure is well tolerated.

Reuse and repeated use

No more than two injections should be administered per animal per day.

Care of animal(s) during/after procedure

Nil

Pain relief measures

Nil

Qualifications, experience skills or training necessary to perform this procedure

Demonstrator: Should be familiar with the correct techniques.

The procedure should be clearly demonstrated before students attempt it.