Tidier Nail Trims

Our technicians got tired of spilling styptic powder during nail trims or having a pet knock the jar off the exam table. To solve this dilemma, we put our recycled, 3-mL syringes to use by cutting the tops off and packing them with the hemostatic agent. The syringe approach allows for quick, easy, and no-mess application to the nail. We keep pre-packed syringes in all of our exam and treatment areas, so they’re on hand when we need them.
James Brown, DVM
Lake Palestine Animal Hospital
Frankston, Texas

Easier Imaging of Small Exotic Pets

Demonstration of a mouse undergoing radiography. End tape is not in place so the patient can be seen.

When working with small exotic pets, obtaining diagnostic radiographs can be difficult. Using empty toilet paper and paper towel rolls is an easy way to restrain patients without impairing the quality of the radiograph or the safety of personnel. We tape the rolls at each end to prevent the patient from escaping and tape the roll to the table to keep it in place. After use, the tubes may be recycled or used as cage enrichments for boarded animals.
Caitlin Dowling
Omro, Wisconsin

Color-Coding for Efficiency

At our busy animal hospital, we use a color-coding protocol to help us keep track of patient flow. We use red wrap on IV catheters currently in use and blue wrap to secure the pressure bandage where an IV catheter has been removed. This policy works well for our team, providing a quick visual of the patients when the hospital is very busy and running at full capacity.
Mary Jo Kaslar, RVT
La Quinta, California