Veterinary Technician how-to

How to Restrain a Dog for a Blood Draw

Good restraint protects the animal and the team.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Good restraint protects the animal and the team. In short: approach; position; hold, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Approach calmly and use low-stress handling.

  2. Position the dog as needed for the vein.

  3. Hold the head securely.

  4. Occlude the vein for the person drawing blood.

  5. Release pressure after the draw.

  6. Reward the dog.

Safety reminders for veterinary technicians

  • Use proper restraint to prevent bites
  • Wear radiation protection
  • Follow anesthetic gas safety
  • Lift animals with help

Triage · Venipuncture · IV catheter · Anesthesia monitoring · Radiograph · CBC: see the full veterinary technician glossary.

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