Blood Collection in Lizards

Hematology and biochemistry results are an important part of the minimum database for all veterinary patients, including lizards. Proper venipuncture technique is critical for accurate interpretation of laboratory results. Blood samples are most frequently collected from the ventral coccygeal vein and jugular vein in lizards; however, the site selected can depend on a variety of factors including the preferences and experience of the phlebotomist, the volume of blood needed, patient size and temperament, and of course the species involved . . .


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References


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Further reading

Dyer SM, Cervasio EL. An overview of restraint and blood collection techniques in exotic pet practice. Vet Clin North Am Exot Anim Pract. 2008;11(3):423-43, v. doi: 10.1016/j.cvex.2008.03.008. PMID: 18675727.

de la Navarre BJS. Common procedures in reptiles and amphibians. Vet Clin Exot Anim Pract. 2006;9:248. doi: 10.1016/j.cvex.2006.04.002. PMID: 16759946.

O’Malley B. Lizards. In: Clinical Anatomy and Physiology of Exotic Species. St. Louis, MO: Saunders-Elsevier; 2005: 64.

Porter WR, Witmer LM. Vascular patterns in iguanas and other squamates: blood vessels and sites of thermal exchange. PLoS One. 2015;10(10):e0139215. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0139215. PMID: 26466378; PMCID: PMC4605690.

Saggese MD. Clinical approach to the anemic reptile. J Exotic Pet Med 2009;18(2):98-111. doi:  10.1053/j.jepm.2009.04.003.

To cite this page:

Pollock CG. Blood collection in lizards. LafeberVet web site. April 28, 2022. Available at https://lafeber.com/vet/blood-collection-in-lizards/