Amphibians and Reptiles

Blood Collection and Injections 

Note:  Amphibian blood contains nucleated erythrocytes, leukocytes and thrombocytes.  Amphibian erythrocytes are biconvex, oval, and the largest of all vertebrate erythrocytes.  Accurate RBC counts are obtained by the use of a hemocytometer and standard counting procedures.  The use of automated WBC counters is contraindicated. 

Frogs and Toads: 

• Femoral vein, ventral abdominal vein, or lingual vein, toe web clip as well as terminal cardiac puncture (under anesthesia) 
• Needle size for most: 25-27 gauge x ¾ inch
• IV injections are usually given in the dorsal lymph sac where drugs are rapidly absorbed into the blood
• IM injections are usually given in the thigh

Salamanders:

• The ventral tail vein, as well as terminal cardiac (under anesthesia)

 Lizards:

• Blood is usually collected from the ventral coccygeal vein

Turtles/Tortoises:

• Blood is collected from a number of sites including: jugular vein, dorsal coccygeal venous sinus, scapular vein, and brachial vein and artery 

Snakes:

• Blood may be collected from the caudal vein (ventrally).  The snake is elevated vertically to ensure blood flow to the tail.  The needle is gently inserted at a 45 degree angle between the ventral scutes of the tail at a location between 1/2 and 2/3 the distance between the anus and the tip of the tail.
• Inserting the needle close to the ventral midline increases the chance of hitting the centrally located caudal vein or artery. 
• The needle should be inserted until a slight resistance from the caudal vertebrae is felt, then back the needle out about 2-5mm, and gently draw back on the plunger

Updated 5/21/07