We often perform a "belly tap" for dogs that have ascites secondary to heart failure, liver disease, or abdominal tumors.  A local anesthetic is given and a smooth metal cannula is inserted to drain the fluid (some vets use catheters).  Depending on the amount of fluid the whole procedure takes 20-40 minutes.  I usually place a suture to close the hole and then a body bandage/stockinette for the day to prevent subcutaneous leakage.

A dog can be tapped as often as every 2 weeks if needed and some will benefit from diuretics to prevent fluid build-up (probably not needed for Jack).  I have taken as much as 6 liters (6000 mls) off of some big dogs and I had one dog with liver failure that we must have tapped at least 10 times to make him feel better.  You know it is time for another tap when the belly starts to get a little tight and full or if the dog's appetite decreases.

Pam