DOG AND CAT HANDLING AND RESTRAINT - Penn ….pdfVIP

DOG AND CAT HANDLING AND RESTRAINT You’ve heard the expression “it’s raining cats and dogs.” You’ll think of it often as a veterinary assistant. Dogs and cats are the two species you’re most likely to encounter. We’ve grouped them here not because of their popularity, however, but rather because they require similar restraint techniques. Let’s look at those similarities, and some impor- tant differences, starting with man’s best friend. Dogs Of all the species you’ll encounter, the dog will likely display the greatest range of reactions to restraint and handling. Some dogs are calm and cooperative; others respond aggres- sively. These reactions can differ from the dog’s customary demeanor. Often a dog that’s docile and friendly at home reacts differently in a veterinary hospital. In your previous study unit, you learned some signs that a fearful or aggres- sive dog may display. Keep these in mind when handling and restraining any dog. Equipment Collars and leashes. Any dog you’re handling should wear at least a collar, which allows easier control should the dog suddenly begin to resist. Several types of collars serve this purpose. Remember, whichever you choose, any collar must be the correct size. Most dogs can easily slip out of a collar that’s too large, and risk injury from a collar that’s too small. (A growing puppy should receive new collars to accommodate its changing size.) Handling and Restraint 5 Types of collars and leashes. Training collars consist of stainless-steel links with a ring at each end (Figure 1A). The links can be a variety of thicknesses. In general, the thicker links are used for very large, muscular dogs, while thinner links are best for smaller breeds. Training collars are sometimes in