Choosing the Right PPE for Veterinary Safety

To determine which personal protective equipment best fits your daily needs, consider each aspect of the care you provide:

While some animal handling tasks may require leather gloves, high-quality disposable exam gloves are a necessity for medical care. Easy access to freshly dispensed exam gloves allows for frequent changing that ensures good hand hygiene for the veterinary professional and prevents cross-contamination between animals.

Handling chemical-based products and the application of medicated creams or ointments requires barrier protection like that offered by nitrile gloves such as the Tronex 9393 Series and the 12” extended cuff Tronex 9662 Series. Fit and comfort, along with chemical resistance, are important factors when choosing a frequent-use daily glove. These nitrile styles feature heavy-duty protection along with excellent elasticity and a second-skin feel, making them ideal for tasks that require long wear and those that may result in scratches. As small cuts and abrasions can sometimes occur, on both pets and caregivers, the added benefit of cross-contamination protection from gloves of this quality is invaluable.

Gloves should also be worn when cleaning examination and waiting areas. Look for heavy duty gloves that offer a secure, comfortable fit like Tronex Multipurpose Flock-Lined Latex Gloves.

For an overview on disposable glove types, check out our Glove Buying Guide to compare nitrile, latex, and vinyl formulations and understand which best fit your practice’s varied needs.

Comfortable protective apparel is also of paramount importance. Disposable apparel, such as fluid impervious medical gowns are perfect protection against splashes and biohazard exposure. Handy pull-on sleeve covers for extended arm protection, along with scrubs or a lab coat, is a great way to offer alternative options for staff.

In some circumstances, disposable face masks may be advisable. They can offer comfort and protection against an abundance of pet hair blowing into the nose or mouth, hair or dander triggering allergic reaction, or the inhalation of other airborne particles.

There are certainly many options to consider when choosing the right protective equipment and apparel for safe animal care. Above all, the products you choose should be of the highest quality that meets your budget and needs.