In Practice 19: 316-319 (1997)
© 1997 British Veterinary Association

Remote intramuscular injection in unmanageable horses

¹ Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary

INJECTABLE anaesthetics are usually given to horses by intravenous injection because this produces a faster onset of action and a more predictable effect compared with intramuscular administration. Drug doses are lower and so costs are reduced. Unfortunately, in some animals, it may not be easy or safe for a drug to be administered intravenously. In these circumstances, an alternative approach is required. This practice tip describes a remote intramuscular technique used by the author when direct injection is impossible.