Canine ambulatory infusion studies are easy, with help from SAI

We'll guide you through the steps so that you can build the dog ambulatory system that suits your study. From choosing the right pump, to creating a safe, comfortable, and functional jacket, we're here to help.

Ambulatory Infusion System for Dogs

In comparison to tethered infusion, the ambulatory system creates free movement and the ability to group house. The basic dog infusion configuration shown here covers a majority of protocols. We can help you customize the options for the catheter, catheter access, pumps and more based on:

  • Volume & Flow Rate
  • Animal Weight
  • Study Duration
  • Intermittent or Continuous Infusion
  • Route of Administration (Jugular, Femoral, Intrathecal, etc.)

To learn more about our system options, keep reading, or reach out to our experienced staff for advice.

Build a Canine Infusion System

Your step-by-step guide to building a safe, effective ambulatory infusion system for dog studies.

Pumps

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Due to their relatively large size, dogs can carry a variety of pumps and still keep the pump weight below 10% of the animal body weight. This means that for canine studies, the pump choice is based primarily on volume and infusion rate.

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  • Extremely Lightweight 141g
  • Flow rates from 0.01-35mL/hr
  • 50mL Reservoir
  • BlueTooth + Software Option
  • Rental Option Available
  • Ideal for: this versatile pump is good for animals in a range of sizes due to the low weight and small size. With flexible flow-rates, and software, it's ideal for standard infusion, group housing studies, and safety pharmacology studies.

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  • Extremely Lightweight 141g
  • Flow rates from 0.005-5mL/hr
  • 20mL Reservoirs
  • BlueTooth + Software Option
  • Great for Intrathecal Infusion
  • Ideal for: CNS studies. This pump is our smallest available due to the small syringe sizes. It's great for studies that require very low flow rates, such as those used for dosing in the ventricular system for CNS delivery.

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  • Small and lightweight at 382g
  • Flow rates from 0.1-125 ml/hr
  • 50, 100, or 250mL Cassettes
  • Optional accessories for 250mL+
  • Rental Option Available
  • Ideal for: Labs that use a variety of species. It can be used for everything from large primates to full size pigs. The range of flow rates and high volumes options make it an excellent overall laboratory pump.

Jackets

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The right jacket ensures animal safety and comfort. For dogs, two of the most important things to consider are protecting the pump, and keeping the animal comfortable. Our helpful staff will recommend the jacket and accessories that fit your needs.

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  • Lightweight, breathable mesh
  • Sizes from less than 2kg to 25kg
  • Optional clips for collar integration
  • Leg straps can be added for extra security
  • Sizing for dogs and hounds

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  • Removeable or Attached Pockets
  • Protective & insulating options
  • Custom channels to feed tubing
  • Attach 1 or 2, depending on pump and reservoir choices

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  • Undershirts and t-shirts
  • Custom color jackets and pockets
  • All designs completely customizable
  • Pillow collars are highly recommended for extra protection.

Catheter Placement

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For canine infusion studies, the most common implant site is the jugular vein, but this depends on both the study needs and the surgeon preference. We offer the widest range of catheter options, and can customize the catheter to suit your needs.

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  • Biocompatible catheters are made from PU or Silicone.
  • Sizes from 3-7 Fr, or custom options available
  • Optional suture beads
  • Optional female luer attachment
  • Ideal for: the jugular vein is relatively easy to access and is ideal for infusion studies. Our range of catheter diameters, lengths and materials make it easy to customize based on your study needs.  

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  • Silicone and polyurethane options are available.
  • Standard sizes from 3-7 Fr, or custom options available
  • All catheters can be customized to fit your species, strain and size requirements.
  • Ideal for: Blood collection or infusion. While the jugular vein is easy to access, it can be prone to kinking due to position of the head and neck. The femoral implant is less affected by positional issues.

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We offer a wide range of standard and customizable catheters for dogs, including:

Externalization

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How to externalize the catheter is an important, but challenging decision. The most common options include Vascular Access Ports (VAPs) or a luer hub on an externalized catheter. Miniaturized Catheter Access Ports are also growing in popularity for large animals after being originally developed for rodents.

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VAPs or Vascular Access Ports are designed to permit repeated access to the vascular system with minimal pain and distress.  

  • Three options available with varying sizes, shapes and securing options
  • VAPs are situated under the skin
  • A non-coring (Huber) needle is required to access the VAP without causing damage
  • Ideal for: Long term studies with intermittent access, especially if there are several days between access. VAPs are also perfect for studies that require group housing; since the port sits below the skin, it is protected from damage.

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Luer Injection Valves (LIV) can be connected to an externalized catheter for quick, clean, easy access.

  • Minimal added volume
  • Hubs are easy to swab for clean access
  • No special tools or needle sticks required
  • Ideal for: Shorter term studies. The catheter externalizes outside of the body and this makes it more vulnerable than a VAP. However, externalized catheters can be easier to use for repeated access studies, even if they are long term, since they can be easily accessed with a standard syringe. Keep in mind that LIVs can be harder to keep clean and secure.

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Catheter Access Buttons™ are halfway between a VAP and an externalized catheter. The catheter connection sits beneath the skin, but the access port is externalized.  

  • 1, 2 and 3 port options available
  • SAI buttons incorporate CannuLock™ technology for the most secure catheter connection
  • Ingrowth cuff promotes fast healing with low incidence of seromas
  • Ideal for: Repeated access studies, or animals that are needle-shy. CABs can work for short or long term studies and for repeated or intermittent access. However, since these were developed for rodents, the tubing diameter can be too small for high flow or high viscosity solutions.

Software & Support

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To take your studies to the next level, take advantage of our service and support options. We can help with proprietary software, pump calibration services and rental options that will keep your lab running smoothly.

Software

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  • Compatible with SAI 3D MiniBT and SAI 3D MicroBT pumps only. BT denotes BlueTooth enabled
  • Manage and modify flow rates throughout the study
  • Monitor study progress
  • Export data for reports
  • Ideal for: Studies that require minimal human interaction, such as safety pharmacology or other stress sensitive studies. The low flow rates for these pumps also make them ideal of intrathecal infusion

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Using your pumps properly and keeping them in good working order are essential for successful studies. We offer pump repairs and calibration for a variety of pumps, inlcuding the CADD 6500. We can also help with surgical sevices and equipment training to make sure you get started on the right foot.

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Need to increase capacity without adding to your capital budget? SAI offers a variety of pumps for rent.

  • Rental on a per month basis
  • Pumps arrive ready for immediate use with verification paperwork
  • Add to your current capacity or rent enough to run full studies

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