Fluid Therapy in Veterinary Practice

Importance of Fluid Therapy

• Mainstay of veterinary practice
  • Subcutaneous fluids for cats with kidney disease
  • Dehydrated parvovirus-positive puppies
  • Support for patients under anesthesia

Choosing the Right Fluid Therapy

• Guidelines: AHA Fluid Therapy Guidelines
  • Helps in selecting the best plan for each patient

Administration of Fluids

• Fluids as Drugs
  • Must achieve therapeutic goals
  • Minimize complications
• Custom Fluid Rates
  • Different compartments (intracellular, interstitial, intravascular) require tailored prescriptions
  • "One fluid rate does not fix all"

Monitoring and Evaluation

• Regular Evaluation
  • Fluid needs may change
  • Avoid complications
  • Ensure desired outcomes

Risks and Complications

• Fluid Overload
  • Life-threatening complication
  • Can occur with excessive administration

Role of Veterinary Technicians

• Skilled Monitoring
  • Key to effective patient care
  • Success in fluid therapy plans

Resource

• 2024 AHA Fluid Therapy Guidelines
  • For comprehensive guidance on fluid therapy for dogs and cats
  • Information available at aha.org/fluidtherapy