Which vein is commonly used for venipuncture on a dog's foreleg?

• A. Cephalic
• B. Jugular
• C. Saphenous
• D. Femoral

Answer: (A)

The question tests knowledge of where to access a dog’s veins for blood draw on the foreleg. The cephalic vein is the one that runs along the cranial (front) surface of the forelimb between the elbow and the carpus. It’s a superficial and easily felt vein, which makes it straightforward to puncture with minimal restraint and movement. This practicality is why it’s the go-to site for venipuncture on the foreleg.

The other veins aren’t as suitable for foreleg access: the jugular vein is in the neck and used when larger volumes are needed or peripheral veins aren’t available; the saphenous vein is in the hind leg, not the foreleg; and the femoral vein is in the thigh, making it less practical for foreleg venipuncture and generally more invasive.