Question
Should I pull back the plunger, and how fast do I inject?
Sunny, owner notes“I wish my dog lived as long as I do.”Updated
I'm an owner, not a vet. This is not veterinary advice, so check anything medical with your own vet.
Short answer
Ask your vet or nurse to show you with your own supplies, then watch you do it. The plunger, injection speed and where the needle goes are all things you learn by being shown, so ask them to explain each step. If you're not sure an injection went in properly, call your vet. Don't give another to make sure.
I never give insulin amounts here. Yours comes from your vet's written plan.
What to know at home
It's completely normal to need another lesson after the first one. A syringe that looks the same can still come with different instructions. Tell the vet if your dog wriggles, snaps or seems to be in pain, so they can show you a safer way.
Check the vial and the syringe show the same U number, every time. If injections seem to hurt, ask your vet about a thinner needle: the higher the G number, the thinner it is. Our page on choosing syringes and needles explains gauge and length.
What to write down
- Device and insulin packaging
- The exact step that feels unclear
- Wet fur, movement or other concerns during the attempt
What to ask next
Ask them to show you first and then watch you do it. Agree with them now what to do next time you're not sure an injection went in.
Sources
- How do I make insulin time easier for my dog?Making insulin time easier
- What if we might have given the insulin twice?Why not to give a second shot
- Which syringe matches my insulin?Matching the syringe to the insulin
- Lumps, bleeding or soreness at the injection site: is it a problem?Soreness at the injection site
- Which syringes and needle size should I buy?Choosing the right syringes
Every outside source I used is listed on the Sources page.
Related
Q&A
Can I reuse or pre-fill syringes?
Check with your vet or pharmacist before you reuse a syringe or fill one ahead of time.
Q&A
How do I make insulin time easier for my dog?
Do it at mealtime, stay calm and praise him. If you're struggling, ask your vet to watch you do it once.
Q&A
What if we might have given the insulin twice?
Call your vet or an emergency clinic right away, even if he looks fine. Write down the times you know.
Urgent help
Emergency or low blood sugar
Call a vet now if your dog is weak, collapsed or having a seizure.