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Objective To assess anesthetic induction, recovery quality and cardiopulmonary variables after intramuscular (IM) injection of three drug combinations for immobilization of horses. Study design Randomized, blinded, three-way crossover prospective design. Animals A total of eight healthy adult horses weighing 470–575 kg. Methods Horses were administered three treatments IM separated by ≥1 week. Combinations were tiletamine–zolazepam (1.2 mg kg−1), ketamine (1 mg kg−1) and detomidine (0.04 mg kg−1) (treatment TKD); ketamine (3 mg kg−1) and detomidine (0.04 mg kg−1) (treatment KD); and tiletamine–zolazepam (2.4 mg kg−1) and detomidine (0.04 mg kg−1) (treatment TD). Parametric data were analyzed using mixed model linear regression. Nonparametric data were compared using Skillings–Mack test. A p value Results All horses in treatment TD became recumbent. In treatments KD and TKD, one horse remained standing. PaO2 15 minutes after recumbency was significantly lower in treatments TD (p Conclusions and clinical relevance In domestic horses, IM injections of tiletamine–zolazepam–detomidine resulted in more reliable recumbency with a longer duration when compared with ketamine–detomidine and tiletamine–zolazepam–ketamine–detomidine. Recoveries were comparable among protocols.

The review presents the results of three studies of the use of tiletamine-zolazepam for sedation during oral administration in dogs and cats. Study 1. Objective: to study the sedative effect of the combination of tiletamine-zolazepam-acepromazine (TZA) or ketamine-flunitrazepam (CF) in dogs with oral administration, as well as to evaluate the effectiveness of the capsule form of TZA in stray dogs. In a pilot study, 6 dogs were administered a liquid form of TZA (20 mg/kg tiletamine-zolazepam and 2 mg/kg acepromazine) or a liquid form of CF (50 mg/kg ketamine and 2 mg/kg flunitrazepam) orally. Sedation was evaluated in points. On average, the time interval from the introduction of MAL to the adoption of the animal side position was: protocol 1 (infusion of the drug into the mouth) — 47.5 (35...80) minutes (67 % of dogs); protocol 2 (addition of the capsule form to the canned food) — 30 (15...65) minutes (83 %), protocol 3 (addition of the liquid form of the drug in gravy) — 75 (45...110) minutes (100 %). None of the dogs in the CF group in protocols 2 and 3 took a side position. Based on these results, 20 stray dogs received encapsulated MAL: TZ (20 mg/kg) and acepromazine (2 mg/kg). Overall, 63 % of the stray dogs in the experiment were caught after eating a double dose of MAL. Oral administration of encapsulated MAL added to the canned food allows you to catch stray dogs, but it may require the use of additional drugs. The time from the introduction of TZA to the development of sedation in animals and the taste of the drug affect the percentage of capture. Study 2. The purpose of the study is to study the possibility of oral administration of the drug «Zoletil» to cats. 8 healthy cats, females and males, aged from 2 to 4 years, were selected. «Zoletil-50» was used in the form of a sterile lyophilizate prepared in the form of a solution with water for injection in doses from 15 to 25 mg/kg. After administration of the drug, hemodynamic parameters, sedation, and the possibility of endotrachial intubation were evaluated. After oral administration, the effect of sedation developed quite quickly. When administered at a dose of 25 mg/kg, intubation and minor surgical interventions were possible. A dose of 15 mg / kg caused only sedation. It is advisable to use «Zoletil» in the form of a powder with a pleasant taste. Study 3. Objective: to assess the quality of sedation, changes in SAD, heart rate and BH in TB administration of TK to healthy cats. Healthy, sterilized European shorthair cats (n=7; 3 males, 4 females) were included in a randomized, blind, cross-sectional study. Each cat received two doses of tiletamine-diazepam TB: 5 mg / kg (LD) and 7.5 mg/kg (HD) of each drug. TB administration of tiletamine-zolazepam in the studied doses is a simple and effective method of pharmacological fixation of cats, while LD has less effect on SAD and BH than HD.

BACKGROUND Tiletamine-zolazepam is a widely used as an alternative chemical immobilization method in non-human primates, with a safe application pathway and necessary relaxation. In order to determine the electrocardiographic parameters of Sapajus libidinosus after intramuscular tiletamine-zolazepam administration at the dose of 5 mg/kg, nine animals were submitted to anesthesia. METHODS The interpretation of the electrocardiogram determined: heart rate in bpm and heart rhythm, P wave, P-R interval, R wave, QRS complex, T wave, Q-T interval, corrected QT interval and electrical axis. The mean HR was 206 ± 32 bpm. RESULTS The majority of the monkeys showed normal sinus rhythm, but one animal showed sinus tachycardia. The most commonly observed electrical axis was between +30° and +90°. Two animals presented bigger alterations in the tracing such as low amplitude QRS and T wave bigger than 1/4 of the R wave. CONCLUSIONS The administration of tiletamine-zolazepam was safe and efficacious, with minimal cardiovascular effects.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to describe the sedative and some physiological effects of tiletamine?zolazepam following buccal administration (BA) in cats. Methods: Seven healthy spayed European Shorthair cats (three males, four female) were studied twice in this randomized, blinded, crossover study. Each cat received two doses of tiletamine?zolazepam by BA: the low-dose (LD) consisted of 5 mg/kg of each drug, and the high dose (HD) consisted of 7.5 mg/kg of each. Baseline systolic blood pressure (SAP), heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR) and a sedation score were recorded prior to administration of each treatment. The same variables plus the percentage of hemoglobin saturated with oxygen as measured by pulse oximetry (SpO 2 ) were recorded at predefined intervals for the next 2 h. Results: All cats completed the study. No retching or vomiting were observed. Hypersalivation was observed in 0/7 and 3/7 for LD and HD, respectively (P = 0.2). There were significant changes in scores over time for posture, response to clippers and response to manual restraint for both groups, without differences between groups. RR, HR and SAP changed significantly over time. SAP and RR were significantly lower for HD than for LD. No values for hemoglobin saturation

This study compared dexmedetomidine or xylazine in combination with tiletamine-zolazepam for chemical immobilization of wild fallow deer (Dama dama) in a prospective, randomized, blinded clinical study. Forty fallow deer were divided into two groups: tiletamine-zolazepam-xylazine (TZX) and tiletamine-zolazepam-dexmedetomidine (TZD). The TZX group was immobilized with 1.9 ± 0.05 mg/kg of xylazine and 1.48 ± 0.05 mg/kg of tiletamine-zolazepam, whereas the TZD group was immobilized with 34.15 ± 1.1 µg/kg of dexmedetomidine and 0.97 ± 0.03 mg/kg of tiletamine-zolazepam by dart. The induction time was recorded. During the immobilization, heart rate, respiratory rate, body temperature, hemoglobin oxygen saturation, blood lactate concentration, and quality of immobilization were recorded at 10, 20, and 30 m after drug administration. The time of achievement of sternal recumbency and that of standing were also recorded. The TZD group showed a significantly shorter induction time (8 ± 1.6 m, TZX group; 4 ± 0.5 m, TZD group), significantly higher quality of immobilization score (2[1–2], TZX group; 4[4–4], TZD group), and significantly lower lactate levels (5[3–7] mmol/L, TZX group; 2[1–3] mmol/L, TZD group). The time to sternal recumbency was 7 ± 1.6 m (TZX group) and 4 ± 0.5 m (TZD group), and time to quadrupedal standing was 20 ± 1.6 m (TZX group) and 16 ± 0.8 m (TZD group) (P = 0.001). Dexmedetomidine combined with tiletamine-zolazepam is a viable alternative to xylazine for the chemical immobilization of fallow deer.

OBJECTIVE To evaluate and compare the anesthetic, analgesic, and cardiorespiratory effects of tiletamine-zolazepam-detomidine-butorphanol (TZDB), tiletamine-zolazepam-xylazine-butorphanol (TZXB), and ketamine-detomidine-butorphanol (KDB) in pigs and to assess anesthetic recovery duration and quality following administration of tolazoline as a reversal agent. ANIMALS 11 healthy 2.5-month-old castrated male Landrace mixed-breed pigs. PROCEDURES In a randomized, blinded crossover study design, pigs received the following anesthetic combinations, IM: TZDB (tiletamine-zolazepam [3 mg/kg {1.36 mg/lb}], detomidine [0.18 mg/kg {0.08 mg/lb}], and butorphanol [0.12 mg/kg {0.05 mg/lb}]); TZXB (tiletamine-zolazepam [4 mg/kg {1.8 mg/lb}], xylazine [4 mg/kg], and butorphanol [0.2 mg/kg {0.09 mg/lb}]); and KDB (ketamine [8 mg/kg {3.63 mg/lb}], detomidine [0.18 mg/kg], and butorphanol [0.3 mg/kg {0.14 mg/lb}]). A 7-day washout period was provided between treatments. At 45 minutes of anesthesia, pigs received tolazoline (2 mg/kg [0.9 mg/lb], IM; n = 6) treatment or control (5) treatment with saline (0.9% NaCl) solution. RESULTS All anesthetic combinations induced anesthesia. Endotracheal intubation was completed within 5 minutes after anesthetic administration in all pigs, except in 2 pigs following administration of KDB. Durations (mean ± SD) of endotracheal intubation and lateral recumbency in pigs that did not receive tolazoline were 55.3 ± 4.8 minutes, 83.8 ± 15.8 minutes, and 28.2 ± 4.5 minutes and 112.4 ± 18.7 minutes, 117.2 ± 16.7 minutes, and 79.7 ± 6.0 minutes, respectively, for the TZDB, TZXB, and KDB anesthetic treatments. Tolazoline significantly shortened the duration of anesthetic recovery for all anesthetic treatments without affecting the recovery quality. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE All 3 anesthetic combinations were suitable for providing anesthesia in pigs. Tolazoline administration shortened the duration of anesthetic recovery without affecting the quality of recovery.

Wild animal immobilization often requires high doses of α2-adrenoceptor agonists. Despite their desired sedative and analgetic effects, well-recognized cardiovascular side effects, such as hypertension and bradycardia, remain a major concern. We compared the effect of two medetomidine doses on intra-arterial blood pressure and heart rate in 13 captive, female red deer (Cervus elaphus) immobilized during winter. Each animal was randomly assigned to receive either 80 µg/kg (group L) or 100 µg/kg (group H) medetomidine, combined with 3 mg/kg tiletamine-zolazepam administered intramuscularly. Changes in cardiovascular variables over time and differences between the groups were analyzed using linear mixed-effect models. Induction time was faster in group L compared with group H; recovery time did not differ between groups. Initially, the arterial blood pressure was higher in group H compared with group L, but differences between groups diminished during anesthesia. Moreover, the decline in arterial blood pressure in group H was more rapid. Heart rate was significantly lower in group L, but bradycardia was not observed. The higher medetomidine dose did not reduce induction time, and initial hypertension was reduced by administering the lower dose. Therefore, although the sample size was small and, thus, the significance of results might be limited, we suggest using 80 µg/kg instead of 100 µg/kg medetomidine when combined with 3 mg/kg tiletamine-zolazepam for the immobilization of female red deer.

Chemical immobilization is used to minimize stress and pain while safely handling wild animals under field conditions. Eight wild bobcats (Lynx rufus) were immobilized for radio collar fittings between March 2005 and March 2007, using a commercial tiletamine hydrochloride-zolazepam hydrochloride combination (Zoletil® Virbac, Carros, France). Bobcats were captured using soft catch spring traps (Victor No. 3) in the Sonoran Desert of Baja California Sur, Mexico. A mean (±SD) intramuscular total dose of 44.3 ± 2.9 mg (6.0 mg kg–1) produced an induction time of 9 ± 4.9 min, and a duration of cataleptic anesthesia of 46.5 ±11.4 min. No adverse reactions were observed in animals during handling, and telemetry monitoring indicated that all individuals were alive for at least one year after the procedure. The results of this study indicate that use of tiletamine-zolazepam administered at 6 mg/kg dose is suitable for short-term chemical immobilization of bobcats in the wild.

Tiletamine-zolazepam immobilisation use in tigers is controversial and has been associated with neurological diseases, poor recoveries and death. Recent publications show this controversy is unsubstantiated. The multiple use of the tiletamine-zolazepam-xylazine (TZ-XZ) combination in a 33-kg Amur tiger (Panthera tigris altaica) cub without adverse reactions is described. The physiological values were not statistically different between anaesthetic events and were comparable with those observed with other protocols. No renal, hepatic or neurological functions were affected during the 10 anaesthetic events over the course of five months. The TZ-XZ (1–1.5 mg/kg + 0.5–1 mg/kg) combination proved to be safe for use in this tiger during repeated immobilisations. The tiger was healthy at the time of the paper’s submission. Further studies with a larger population of animals are encouraged.

15 dogs presented to a sterilisation clinic in March 2017 for ovariohysterectomy or castration surgeries. All patients were initially injected with an anaesthetic combination of Telazol (tiletamine/zolazepam), ketamine and xylazine (TKX) intramuscularly, followed by venous catheterisation and a number of follow-up intravenous boluses of TKX when appropriate to maintain a surgical anaesthesia. 6 dogs required redosing of the TKX drug combination. Data of monitoring anaesthesia via heart rate, respiratory rate, jaw tone, limb and muscle movement were collected. These data were used to determine timing for additional intravenous half doses of TKX for the maintenance of anaesthesia. All surgeries were successful without complications, and the anaesthetic protocol was effective at maintaining surgical anaesthesia. This case report describes a group of patients in which TKX was used as the anaesthetic protocol, with details on this previously unreported protocol such that others may be able to consider using TKX in future dog sterilisation clinics.

Objective To investigate the sedative effects in dogs of tiletamine–zolazepam–acepromazine (TZA) or ketamine–flunitrazepam (KF) administered orally and to evaluate the effectiveness of encapsulated TZA for capturing free-roaming dogs. Study design Experimental study followed by a field trial. Animals Six research dogs and 27 free-roaming dogs. Methods In a pilot study, six research dogs were administered liquid TZA (20 mg kg−1 tiletamine–zolazepam and 2 mg kg−1 acepromazine) or liquid KF (50 mg kg−1 ketamine and 2 mg kg−1 flunitrazepam) orally: treatment 1, forcefully squirting liquid medication into the mouth; treatment 2, encapsulating liquid medication for administration in canned food; treatment 3, administering liquid medication mixed with gravy. Sedation was scored. A follow-up field trial attempted capture of 27 free-roaming dogs. Results In the pilot study, the median time (range) to lateral recumbency (% dogs) after TZA administration was: treatment 1, 47.5 (35–80) minutes (67%); treatment 2, 30 (15–65) minutes (83%); and treatment 3, 75 (45–110) minutes (100%). No dogs in KF treatment 2 or 3 achieved lateral recumbency. Based on these results, 20 free-roaming dogs were offered encapsulated TZA in canned food: TZ (20 mg kg−1) and acepromazine (2 mg kg−1). Of these, no further drugs to four dogs (one dog captured), 10 dogs were administered a second dose within 30 minutes (five dogs captured) and six dogs were administered TZ (5 mg kg−1) and xylazine (1.1–2.2 mg kg−1) intramuscularly by blow dart (six dogs captured). Seven dogs were initially offered twice the TZA dose (five dogs captured). In total, 63% free-roaming dogs were captured after administration of encapsulated TZA in canned food. Conclusions and clinical relevance Oral administration of encapsulated TZA in canned dog food can aid in the capture of free-roaming dogs, but additional drugs may be required. The sedation onset time and medication palatability influenced the capture rate.

Objectives The goal of this study was to determine whether a drug combination using nalbuphine with dexmedetomidine and tiletamine/zolazepam is non-inferior to one that uses butorphanol. Methods All healthy cats presenting solely for gonadectomy to two trap–neuter–return mobile clinic days were randomly assigned to induction with a combination of tiletamine/zolazepam 3 mg/kg, dexmedetomidine 7.5 µg/kg and either butorphanol or nalbuphine at 0.15 mg/kg. All participants were blinded to the identity of the combinations. The primary endpoint was clinician satisfaction, comprised of the mean of four satisfaction ratings on a 7-point Likert scale (highly dissatisfied through to highly satisfied) recorded for induction, maintenance of anesthesia, surgery and recovery. Exploratory endpoints included each individual score, number of injections, duration of induction, duration of recovery and need for reversal agent. To assess non-inferiority for the primary endpoint and individual scores, the difference and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of the difference between the mean clinical scores for the nalbuphine and butorphanol-based combinations were calculated and compared with a prespecified non-inferiority margin of 20% (1.4 points). Results Seventy-two cats were enrolled, 36 in each group. The mean ± SD composite score for the combination with nalbuphine was 6.06 ± 0.59 (95% CI 5.86–6.25) points, while the combination with butorphanol was 6.22 ± 0.62 (95% CI 6.01–6.43). The difference between mean scores was 0.17 (–0.12 to 0.45), which did not exceed the prespecified boundary of 1.4, establishing the non-inferiority of nalbuphine. No individual clinical score for nalbuphine was inferior to butorphanol, and there were no significant differences for any secondary endpoints. Conclusions and relevance The clinical experience of the nalbuphine-based combination was non-inferior to the butorphanol-based combination. Nalbuphine is an effective substitute for butorphanol, providing another option if butorphanol is unavailable due to shortage, controlled status or cost, without requiring a change in anesthetic workflow.

This study investigated the analgesia effects of intramuscular injection of ketamine, dexmedetomidine and tiletamine-zolazepam combined with tramadol (KDZT) and compared the efficacy of this combination with that of ketamine, dexmedetomidine and tiletamine-zolazepam (KDZ) in Chinese local mongrel cats. Ten cats were tested twice as a comparison between the two groups, and the interval between the two groups was more than a week. The animals received ketamine (10 mg/kg), dexmedetomidine (10 μg/kg) and zoletil (5 mg/kg) combined with or without tramadol (2 mg/kg) for anesthesia in separate tests. Heart rate, respiration rate, non-invasive systolic pressure, hemoglobin oxygen saturation, rectal temperature, subjective pain scores and venous blood-gas were measured simultaneously. The induction time, recovery time of the righting reflex, standing and walking, the time during the anesthesia period were recorded. Cardiopulmonary variables changed after injection, some of which were significantly different from baselines before anesthesia induction. Values regarding blood gas changed after intramuscular administration, and significant differences were found between two groups at one of the timepoints. Both KDZT and KDZ provided adequate analgesia in cats. The induction period of two anesthetic mixtures was within 1-3 min and could effectively maintain anesthesia for 75-175 min. The change of physiological parameters remained within a biologically acceptable range and was not significantly different between the two groups. The use of KDZT resulted in better anesthesia, with shorter anesthesia induction period and longer anesthesia period compared with KDZ. No side effects were observed, no rescue analgesic was required.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the anesthetic effects of xylazine-ketamine (XK), xylazine-tiletamine-zolazepam (XTZ) and tiletamine-zolazepam (TZ) using hematological and biochemical parameters in rabbits. A total of 18 rabbits were divided into three equal treatment groups (n = 6). The rabbits in the XK, XTZ, and TZ groups were administered xylazine (5 mg/kg) and ketamine (50 mg/kg), xylazine (5 mg/kg) and TZ (15 mg/kg), and TZ (15 mg/kg), respectively, via the intramuscular route. Following the injection, their reflexes were tested every 5 minutes. Heart rate, respiratory rate, and body temperature were determined before the injection (0 min) and at 5, 15, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, and 120 min after injecting the anesthetic combinations. Furthermore, hematological and biochemical (alanine transaminase [ALT], aspartate transaminase [AST], alkaline phosphatase [ALP], bilirubin, blood urea nitrogen [BUN], and urea) analyses were also performed before, during, and after anesthesia administration. The duration of anesthesia and loss of reflexes were significantly longer in the XTZ group than in the other groups. However, in the TZ group, reflexes were remained. Respiratory rate and body temperature decreased in all the groups. Moreover, heart rate reduced only in the XK and XTZ groups, and the hematological parameters of all groups were comparable. Serum AST and ALP levels increased in the XTZ group compared to that in the XK and TZ groups, respectively. However, these increases were within the reference limits. The post-anesthesia serum BUN and urea levels significantly increased in the XTZ group (p < 0.05) compared to that in the other groups. Thus, although the XTZ combination provided satisfactory anesthetic effect in rabbits, it may be nephrotoxic. Therefore, its use for anesthesia induction in invasive renal procedures and experimental nephrotoxicity studies is not advisable..

We used a combination of medetomidine and tiletamine-zolazepam to immobilize five Himalayan black bears (Selenarctos thibetanus laniger) in Bannerghatta Biological Park, Bangalore, India. Medetomidine and tiletamine-zolazepam were administered at 0.01 mg/kg and 0.5 mg/kg, respectively. We describe procedures and observations recorded during the immobilization.

There is currently no available information regarding the veterinary management of Sunda clouded leopards (Neofelis diardi), either in captivity or in the wild. In this study, 12 Sunda clouded leopards were anesthetized between January 2008 and February 2014 for medical exams, and/or GPS-collaring. Seven wild-caught individuals were kept in captivity and 5 free-ranging animals were captured by cage traps. Two anesthesia combinations were used: medetomidine-ketamine (M-K) or tiletamine-zolazepam (T-Z). Atipamezole (0.2 mg/kg im) was used as an antagonist for medetomidine. Medetomidine (range: 0.039-0.054 mg/kg) and ketamine (range: 3-4.39 mg/kg) were administered during 5 immobilizations, resulting in median induction times of 7 min. After a median anesthesia time of 56 min, atipamezole was injected, observing effects of antagonism at a median time of 12 min. T-Z (range: 6.8-10.8 mg/kg) was administered on 7 occasions. Median induction times observed with this combination were shorter than with M-K (4 min vs 7 min; P=0.04), and anesthesia and recovery times were significantly longer (244 and 35 min vs 56 and 16 min, respectively; P=0.02). Lower heart rates were measured in the M-K group, while lower rectal temperatures were found in the T-Z group. Both combinations resulted in safe and reliable immobilizations, although given the favorable anesthesia and recovery times of M-K, we recommend this approach over T-Z for the veterinary handling of Sunda clouded leopards.

Anesthetic protocols for murine models are varied within the literature and medetomidine has been implicated in the development of urethral plugs in male mice. Our objective was to evaluate the combination of butorphanol, dexmedetomidine, and tiletamine-zolazepam. A secondary objective was to identify which class of agent was associated with urethral obstructions in male mice. BALB/c male (n=13) and female (n=23) mice were assigned to dexmedetomidine and tiletamine-zolazepam with or without butorphanol or to single agent dexmedetomidine or tiletamine-zolazepam. Anesthesia was achieved in 58% (14/24) of mice without butorphanol and in 100% (24/24) of mice with butorphanol. The combination of dexmedetomidine (0.2 mg/kg), tiletamine-zolazepam (40 mg/kg), and butorphanol (3 mg/kg) resulted in an induction and anesthetic duration of 12 and 143 minutes, respectively. Urethral obstructions occurred in 66% (25/38) of trials in male mice that received dexmedetomidine with a mortality rate of 38% (5/13). Tiletamine-zolazepam, when used alone, resulted in a 0% (0/21) incidence of urethral obstructions. Combination use of dexmedetomidine, tiletamine-zolazepam, and butorphanol results in a longer and more reliable duration of anesthesia than the use of dexmedetomidine and tiletamine-zolazepam alone. Dexmedetomidine is not recommended for use in nonterminal procedures in male mice due to the high incidence of urethral obstructions and resultant high mortality rate.

We used physiological parameters and the duration and quality of anesthesia to compare the effects of two ambient temperatures and of the duration of pre-immobilization confinement on the chemical immobilization of fallow deer. We divided 45 free-ranging fallow deer ( Dama dama ) into two groups: Group A were deer captured in winter (average 12 C), using 1 mg/kg of xylazine and 1 mg/kg of tiletamine-zolazepam; and Group B were deer captured in spring (average 24 C), using 2 mg/kg of xylazine and 1.5 mg/kg of tiletamine-zolazepam, after being confined in a pen. We observed lower mean respiratory rate and oxygen saturation in Group B. In contrast, the mean body temperature and the mean blood lactate concentration were significantly higher in Group B, and quality of anesthesia was better in Group A. Mean induction time (time to achieve recumbency) and durations of recumbency were the same in Groups A and B: approximately 8 and 50 min, respectively. Despite the lower drug dosage, better sedation was obtained in Group A than in group B. The time of year, most likely associated with differences in ambient temperature and in confinement, influenced the recommended dosage for xylazine and tiletamine-zolazepam in fallow deer. As all the animals were sound, we concluded that the only factors that influenced the outcome of the present study were the ambient temperature and the level of stress caused by confinement in the pen.

The aims of this study were to evaluate the effects of the administration of a combination of tiletamine-zolazepam and detomidine (TZD) in 9 tigers (Panthera tigris). Nine captive tigers were immobilized with tiletamine-zolazepam and detomidine administered intramuscularly. At the end of the procedure immobilization was partially reversed with atipamezole. Lateral recumbency was achieved in 15.6 ± 5.9 min. The median induction score [scored 1 (excellent) to 4 (poor)] was 1. The immobilization score [scored 1 (poor) to 6 (too deep)] was 5 (4–5) at all study times. After atipamezole administration, all tigers experienced severe ataxia and incoordination. Median recovery score [scored 1 (excellent) to 4 (poor)] was 2.5 (range 2–3). No neurologic and/or important adverse reactions were noticed within 5 days after recovery. The combination tiletamine-zolazepam with detomidine proved to be effective in immobilizing captive healthy tigers but it maybe associated with hypertension and ataxia during recovery. Zoo Biol. 34:40–45, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals Inc.

The need to manage otariid populations has necessitated the development of a wide range of capture methods. Chemical restraint by remote drug delivery (i.e., darting) is a highly selective method that can be used to facilitate otariid capture in a range of scenarios, when other methods may be impracticable. However, the risks associated with darting otariids are not widely known and guidelines necessary to promote and refine best practice do not exist. We review the risks associated with darting and in light of our findings, develop darting guidelines to help practitioners assess and minimize risks during capture, anesthesia and recovery. Published studies reveal that mortalities associated with darting predominantly result from complications during anesthetic maintenance (e.g., prolonged respiratory depression, apnea, or hyperthermia), rather than from complications during capture or recovery. In addition to monitoring vital signs and proper intervention, the risk of irreversible complications during anesthesia can be reduced by administering drug doses that are sufficient to enable the capture and masking of animals, after which anesthetic depth can be regulated using gas anesthesia.

It is sometimes necessary to restrain kangaroos (Macropus spp) for veterinary treatment or in the course of scientific research, but the associated stresses may induce capture myopathy in wild kangaroos. Judicious use of injectable sedatives can reduce the risk of capture myopathy. Zoletil®, a proprietary mixture of tiletamine and zolazepam, is reported to have a wide safety margin, a small dose volume, and be quick acting for a range of animals. We investigated the dose-response relationship of Zoletil® in 26 western grey kangaroos (Macropus fuliginosus ocydromus). All kangaroos were recumbent within 5-10 min of intramuscular injection with mean (± SD) Zoletil® of 4.55 (± 0.98) mg kg−1. Mean (± SD) time to recovery varied between individuals, 2.07 (± 0.41) h over all occasions, and was independent of dose rate. For animals that were assessed on multiple occasions, mean (± SEM) time to recover was reduced from 2.25 (± 0.09) h on the first occasion to 2.15 (± 0.10) h on the second occasion and 1.81 (± 0.11) h on the third. Since kangaroos sedated with Zoletil® are vulnerable to predation and injury during recovery, we believe they should be supervised until they are able to fend for themselves.

Two protocols to immobilise free-ranging Pampas foxes for ear-tagging or radio-collaring were evaluated. One hundred fifteen foxes were injected with ketamine-xylazine (K-X) and thirteen with tiletamine-zolazepam (T-Z). The use of both T-Z and K-X combinations typically resulted in a smooth induction and recovery. In 86% of the cases K-X protocol was judged effective (mean ± SD, K: 10.7 ± 3.3 mg/kg, X: 1.0 ± 1.0 mg/kg) while T-Z protocol was judged effective in 92% of the cases (T: 3.6 ± 1.05 mg/kg, Z: 3.6 ± 1.05 mg/kg). The primary differences between the two drug combinations were that the time necessary for the complete recovery was longer with T-Z, and thermic problems were found more frequently with K-X. Additionally, our results suggest that thermic stress may be a relatively frequent complication for Pampas foxes. This study provides baseline data on some physiologic variables in Pampas foxes captured with different methods and drugs in field conditions. Fil: Luengos Vidal, Estela Maris. Universidad Nacional del Sur. Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia. Cátedra de Fisiología Animal; Argentina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas; Argentina Fil: Castillo, Diego Fabián. Universidad Nacional del Sur. Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia. Cátedra de Fisiología Animal; Argentina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas; Argentina Fil: Baglioni, Joaquín. Universidad Nacional del Sur. Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia. Cátedra de Fisiología Animal; Argentina Fil: Manfredi, Matilde Claudia. Universidad Nacional del Sur. Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia. Cátedra de Fisiología Animal; Argentina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas; Argentina Fil: Lucherini, Mauro. Universidad Nacional del Sur. Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia. Cátedra de Fisiología Animal; Argentina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas; Argentina Fil: Casanave, Emma Beatriz. Universidad Nacional del Sur. Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia. Cátedra de Fisiología Animal; Argentina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas; Argentina

Immobilization and anaesthesia of adult male southern elephant seals (Mirounga leonina) is potentially risky for animals and scientists. A tiletamine/zolazepam injection is considered the most appropriate drug combination for field application in this species. Since appropriate dosages are difficult to assess due to uncertainties in weight estimation, we used photogrammetry-derived weight estimates to ensure precise post hoc calculations of dosages. We report on 15 intramuscular tiletamine/zolazepam immobilizations of post-moult males of the upper weight class at King George Island/Isla 25 de Mayo, in April 2010. Initial injections were made using blowpipe syringes. Mean tiletamine/zolazepam combined dosages of 0.71 mg kg−1 (SD ± 0.16) ranged between 0.46 and 1.01 mg kg−1. In four cases, ketamine was added in dosages between 0.96 and 2.61 mg kg−1. Mean induction period was 23 min (± 15), and the mean duration of the procedures from first injection to release of the animals required 96 min (± 51). Four seals exhibited periods of apnoea, and one case of an extended, repetitive, and potentially critical apnoea (> 25 and 8 min) required intervention in order to successfully re-initiate spontaneous respiration. All procedures resulted in proper immobilizations allowing for the deployment of the satellite tags on the seals’ heads. The fact that even substantial deviations between the initial weight estimates and the photogrammetry-derived weight estimates had no apparent effect on the course of the immobilization underlines the drugs’ wide safety margin in this species.

Conservation and research of the elusive snow leopard (Panthera uncia) have been hampered by inadequate knowledge about its basic life history. Global positioning system (GPS) collars can provide useful information, but there has been limited information available on safe capture methods, drug doses, and efficacy for effective immobilization of free-ranging snow leopards. We describe a drug protocol using a combination of medetomidine and tiletamine-zolazepam for the chemical immobilization of free-ranging snow leopards. We also describe physiologic responses to immobilization drugs, including rectal temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, and relative hemoglobin oxygen saturation (SpO2) recorded every 10 min. Our study was carried out in the Tost Mountains adjacent to the Great Gobi Desert, in southern Mongolia, between August 2008 and April 2012. Eighteen snow leopards were captured or recaptured with foot-snares on 42 occasions and anesthetized for marking with GPS collars. The snow leopards received on average (±SD) 0.020±0.04 mg/kg body mass medetomidine and 2.17±0.45 mg/kg tiletamine-zolazepam. The duration of ensuing anesthesia was 69±13 min, including an induction period of 10 (±4) min. Anesthesia was reversed with 4 mg (0.10±0.04 mg/kg) atipamezole administered intramuscularly. The mean value for SpO2 for the 37 captures where we could record physiologic values was 91±4. The SpO2 increased significantly during anesthesia (+0.06±0.02%/min), whereas rectal temperature (average 38.1±0.7 C/min, change -0.04±0.003 C/min), heart rate (average 97±9 beats/min, change -0.20±0.03 beats/min), and respiratory rate (average 26±6 breaths/min, change -0.11±0.03 breaths/min) decreased significantly. A dose of 80 mg tiletamine-zolazepam (2 mg/kg body weight) and 0.72 mg medetomidine (0.02 mg/kg body weight) safely immobilized all adult and subadult snow leopards (weight 25-45 kg) in our study. All measured physiologic values remained within clinically acceptable limits.

The objective of this study was to investigate the suitability of tiletamine/zolazepam-xylazine-tramadol combination for miniature pigs. Fourteen Chinese experimental miniature pigs subjected to this study received 3.5 mg tiletamine/zolazepam kg−1 bw, 1.32 mg xylazine kg−1 bw and 1.8 mg tramadol kg−1 bw intramuscularly, as a mixture of the drugs. Cardiopulmonary, biochemical and haematological parameters were recorded before drug administration and after anaesthesia. The combination of the compounds resulted in anaesthesia lasting about 87 min and a satisfactory immobilization for handling. Cardiopulmonary parameters were changed after administration, but there were within biologically acceptable limits. Biochemical and haematological values decreased after drug administration, however, they returned to the baseline at 24 h. At the doses described, tiletamine/zolazepam-xylazine-tramadol combination produced good immobilization in miniature pigs with minimal changes over time in cardiopulmonary, biochemical and haematological parameters.

This is the postprint version of the article. We compared anesthetic protocols with different doses of tiletamine-zolazepam (TZ) combined with medetomidine (M) for 288 yearling brown bear (Ursus arctos) immobilizations with the objective of finding a combination of doses that would provide fast induction with a duration of anesthesia long enough to minimize the need for administering additional drug. The duration of induction time and immobilization was dose-dependent. Increasing the M dose resulted in significantly shorter induction times and a lower probability of giving supplemental drugs. Increasing the TZ dose prolonged duration of anesthesia. For yearling brown bears in Scandinavia, captured shortly after den emergence in April and May, we recommend total dart doses of 1.0 to 1.66 mg M/dart, plus 62.5 to 125 mg TZ/dart, depending on the individual requirements for the length and depth of anaesthesia.

We evaluated the behavioral response of 125 free-ranging New Zealand fur seals (75 females and 50 males) to darting and the effectiveness and safety of midazolam and tiletamine-zolazepam for remote chemical immobilization. Behavioral reactions to darting were minor and brief. Overall, severe reactions to darting such as long flight responses (7%) and escape to the sea (7%) were uncommon. Midazolam administered by dart failed to produce a satisfactory level of immobilization. Tiletamine-zolazepam was administered to 120 animals (35 females and 85 males), 104 of which were successfully immobilized and 16 escaped to the water following darting or attempted net capture. At least 10 of the 16 animals are known to have survived. Tiletamine-zolazepam caused moderate depression of swimming and diving behavior in the animals that escaped to the water. Data from dive loggers confirmed that seals that escaped remained near the sea surface for extended periods. Tiletamine-zolazepam administered by dart at a mean dosage of 1.87 ± 0.18 mg/kg for females and 1.49 ± 0.23 mg/kg for males provided effective and safe immobilization, reducing capture stress for both animals and personnel. Although there is still a risk of drugged animals escaping to the water and possibly drowning, this risk is much lower than previously reported for other pinnipeds.

Chemical immobilization is often needed for safe and effective capture and handling of wildlife. We evaluated medetomidine (125, 150, 175, or 200 μg/kg; for synergistic effects and relaxation) mixed with ketamine (1.5 mg/kg; for relatively shorter recovery) and tiletamine-zolazepam (1.0 mg/kg; for rapid induction) in 22 female white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) at the University of Georgia Whitehall Deer Research Facility in Athens, Georgia, USA, on 14-15 and 21 May 2009. Deer were weighed before treatment, hand-injected intramuscularly (IM) while restrained in a squeeze chute, and released into a pen for monitoring. We measured rectal temperature, respiration rate, heart rate, hemoglobin saturation (using pulse oximetry), and arterial blood gases at 0, 10, and 20 min postimmobilization. We found no differences in induction time with different doses of medetomidine. Deer became laterally recumbent for all treatments combined at a median of 4.2 (2.6-21.3) min and were approachable by a median of 4.8 (3.5-21.8) min. Twelve of the 22 deer had rectal temperatures40 C at time 0 and were treated with a cold-water enema. Hemoglobin saturation, estimated using pulse oximetry, was 79.5, 82.0, and 82.3% at times 0, 10, and 20, respectively. We injected atipamezole (0.35 mg/kg, IM) for reversal. Recovery occurred sooner and was more consistent for 125 and 150 μg/kg medetomidine whereby deer stood with minimal sedation to moderate ataxia within 60-90 min after atipamezole administration. We recommend using 150 μg of medetomidine with ketamine (1.5 mg/kg) and tiletamine-zolazepam (1.0 mg/kg) to provide effective and safe chemical immobilization of white-tailed deer.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the anesthetic and cardiorespiratory effects of tiletamine/zolazepam and the effect of flumazenil on the recovery from tiletamine/zolazepam anesthesia in the pig. Six Landrace and Yorkshire cross-bred pigs (three females and three males, 3-4 months old) weighing 35.8 ± 1.7 kg were used in this study. Pigs were given tiletamine/zolazepam intramuscularly at a dose of 4.4 mg kg(-1) (2.2 mg kg(-1) tiletamine and 2.2 mg kg(-1) zolazepam) of body weight. Twenty minutes after the administration of tiletamine/zolazem, the pigs were given saline solution (control, Group TZ) or given flumazenil intravenously at a dose of 0.08 mg kg(-1) of body weight (Group TZF). Anesthesia and recovery times, scores of anesthetic effects and cardiorespiratory variables were recorded for each pig. There was a significant difference between the duration of tiletamine/zolazepam anesthesia with and without the antagonist. Flumazenil significantly shortened the recovery time. A significant difference in blood gas variables was observed between the two groups. The anesthetic effects induced by tiletamine/zolazepam could be reversed successfully and safely by flumazenil alone. Therefore, flumazenil administration could be considered in cases in which quick recovery is required in pigs.

The immobilisation and anaesthesia of free-ranging cattle requires the administration of appropriate drugs in small volume via rifle or dart. The objective of this randomised controlled study was to test the capacity of a concentrated combination of tiletamine–zolazepam (TZ), ketamine (K) and detomidine (D) (TZKD) to immobilise/anaesthetise calves. Following administration of low, medium and high doses of TZKD to six healthy animals IM, the time-of-onset and duration of anaesthesia were recorded, in addition to standard cardio-respiratory parameters. Two noxious stimuli were applied to assess the analgesic effect of the combination. TZKD produced a dose-dependent anaesthetic action associated with respiratory depression and moderate hypoxaemia. Total recumbency lasted from 1 h (with low dose) to 2 h (with medium and high doses). The findings indicate that TZKD induces anaesthesia in calves, suitable not only for animal immobilisation, but also to carry out minor surgical procedures with or without additional local analgesia. Respiratory depression was the most severe side-effect and careful patient monitoring is recommended when using this drug combination.

Seventeen adult chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) with an average age of 37 yr were immobilized with a combination of tiletamine-zolazepam (TZ) and medetomidine (MED) by one of two modes of delivery. Group A animals received the drug combination intramuscularly at 3 mg/kg and 0.05 mg/kg, respectively. Animals in group B received MED by oral transmucosal administration, meaning oral delivery with presumptive transmucosal absorption. MED at 0.1 mg/kg was mixed with marshmallow crème, and delivery was followed by 3 mg/kg of TZ intramuscularly. Chimpanzees from both groups were recovered after administration of atipamezole at 0.3 mg/kg intramuscularly. All chimpanzees were compliant with oral transmucosal drug administration, although two chimpanzees preferred oral MED mixed with applesauce. All animals exhibited some anxiety and excitatory behavior associated with darting, but this was reduced in group B, which was premedicated with oral transmucosal MED. The mean time from TZ administration to sedation sufficient for human contact was 16.4 and 14.7 min with and without oral transmucosal premedication, respectively. The mean time for recovery for those chimpanzees given oral transmucosal premedication was 13.8 min, which was significantly shorter than the time of recovery for the group not given oral premedication (P = 0.02). Oral transmucosal administration of MED provided light sedation in 16 of 17 chimpanzees to the level of arousable recumbency and a heavier sedation in one chimpanzee with no adverse side effects. TZ combined with MED by either oral transmucosal or injectable administration provided safe, heavy, long sedation with rapid, smooth, uneventful recoveries.

During a 2-year study on wild boar ecology in a semiagricultural area of Northern Apennines (central Italy), 47 animals were caught with traps and subsequently immobilized with chemical restrain based on a 1:1 mixture of xylazine and tiletamine/zolazepam (1 ml contains: 50 mg of xylazine, 25 mg of tiletamine, and 25 mg of zolazepam). Effective chemical immobilization was observed in 55% of the caught wild boars, and a high capture mortality rate occurred (in 10.6% of wild boars). A posteriori analysis, by means of a logistic regression model, was performed to assess potential factors associated with wild boar chemical immobilization failure. Underdosage and increase in the number of animals caught together significantly increase the wild boar chemical restrain failure, while the capture mortality appears to be positively related to the sole trap size alone. The stress developed during the capture plays a relevant role influencing the outcomes of the anesthesia. Thus, the use of alternative handling or catching procedures with the aim to reduce stress in captured animals could maximize the safety and the efficiency of the wild boar chemical immobilization.

Cardiorespiratory effects, quality of induction, depth of anaesthesia and quality of recovery were compared in pigs anaesthetised with 8 mg/kg ketamine, 20 µg/kg dexmedetomidine and 0.2 mg/kg methadone (KDM, n = 18) or 8 mg/kg tiletamine–zolazepam and 0.2 mg/kg methadone (TZM, n = 9). Anaesthesia with KDM was partially reversed in nine animals with 0.2 mg/kg atipamezole (KDM at ). Sedation was observed earlier in the TZM group (47.2 ± 25.3 s) than the KDM group (91.5 ± 37.4 s). Sternal and lateral recumbency were achieved earlier in the TZM group (76.3 ± 36.5 s and 132.1 ± 30.5 s, respectively) than in the KDM group (149.1 ± 58.7 s and 249.2 ± 84.0 s, respectively). PaO 2 , SaO 2 and PaO 2 :FiO 2 were lower in the TZM group (68.7 ± 4.1 mmHg, 93.4 ± 1.4% and 327.2 ± 19.9 mmHg, respectively) than in the KDM group (80.4 ± 5.9 mmHg, 95.7 ± 1.0% and 380.4 ± 25.6 mmHg, respectively). Fshunt and P (A-a) O 2 were higher in the TZM group (24.0 ± 11.8% and 31.4 ± 3.8 mmHg, respectively) than in the KDM group (13.4 ± 3.2% and 20.7 ± 7.4 mmHg, respectively). Times from drug injection to first head movements, sternal recumbency and standing/walking were significantly shorter in the KDM group (45.1 ± 10.5, 48.4 ± 12.6 and 54.4 ± 17.8 min, respectively) than in the TZM group (57.8 ± 11.4, 93.1 ± 14.2 and 165.7 ± 56.6 min, respectively). The median recovery score was higher in the TZM group than in the KDM noat and KDM at subgroups. Both drug combinations provided adequate anaesthesia for minor procedures lasting about 30 min, but TZM was associated with a poor recovery and oxygenation.

The effects of xylazine or medetomidine on tiletamine/zolazepam (Zoletile) anesthesia were evaluated by changes in the canine electroencephalogram (EEG). Experimental groups were three: the group treated with 10 mg/kg of Zoletile intravenously (TZ), the group treated with 1.1 mg/kg of xylazine intramuscularly and 10 mg/kg of Zoletile intravenously (XTZ), and the group treated with 30 microg/kg of medetomidine intramuscularly and 10 mg/kg of Zoletile intravenously (MTZ). EEG recording electrode was positioned at Cz, which was applied to International 10-20 system. For all recording times, the powers of each band (band 1: 1-2.5 Hz, band 2: 2.5-4.5 Hz, band 3: 4.5-8 Hz, band 4: 8-13 Hz, band 5: 13-20 Hz, band 6: 20-30 Hz, band 7: 30-50 Hz, band 8: 1-50 Hz) were calculated. In TZ, at 10 min after Zoletile injection, the powers of bands 3, 4, 5 and 8 significantly decreased. At 20 min after Zoletile injection, the powers of band 1 and 8 were significantly decreased. After Zoletile injection, there were significant decreases in bands 1, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 in XTZ, and in bands 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 in MTZ. These significant changes disappeared in all band powers in TZ and MTZ in the last 1 min just prior to the dogs showing head-up movement. But, in XTZ, all band powers, except band 2, were significantly reduced. EEG power spectral analysis revealed the differences in band powers on awakening, even though the same kind of drugs were used. We thought that was a useful method to compare the effect of xylazine and medetomidine on Zoletile-induced anesthesia in dogs.

As part of a project to restore the fisher Martes pennanti in Pennsylvania, USA, we evaluated flumazenil (0.02 mg/kg) for partial reversal of tiletamine-zolazepam (10.0–11.0 mg/kg; i.e. antagonizing the effects of zolazepam) by monitoring immobilization intervals and physiologic responses of fishers (N = 4). Flumazenil reduced mean down time and alert time, but did not reduce mean recovery time. Trends in respiratory rate, body temperature, pulse rate and arterial oxygen saturation expressed by immobilized fishers were not altered by flumazenil within eight minutes post-injection. Flumazenil did not enhance practical utility of tiletamine-zolazepam at 10.0–11.0 mg/kg because fishers that received flumazenil exhibited residual tiletamine effects such as prolonged recovery and profound ataxia.

Thirty-two anesthetic episodes used a combination of tiletamine-zolezepam (50 mg/ml each), ketamine (80 mg/ml), and xylazine (20 mg/ml) at various dosages for routine diagnostic and minor surgical procedures in 13 captive cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus). The mean dosage (0.023 +/- 0.003 ml/kg) provided rapid induction with a single i.m. injection along with safe predictable working time, good muscle relaxation, and analgesia. Yohimbine administration subsequently accelerated smooth and rapid recovery.

We immobilized 200-550-kg leopard seals (Hydrurga leptonyx) on sea ice in Prydz Bay, Antarctica (68°25'S, 77°10'E) between November 1997 and February 2000. Midazolam (0.18-0.27 mg/kg)/ pethidine (1.0-1.5 mg/kg) was administered by dart to 16 leopard seals. Unpredictable immobilization, poor airway maintenance, and our inability to fully assess the suitability of flumazenil (0.003-0.01 mg/kg), naloxone (0.01-0.013 mg/kg), and naltrex-one (0.05-0.12 mg/kg) as reversal agents limited suitability of midazolam/ pethidine. Tiletamine/zolazepam 1:1 (0.5-1.5 mg/kg) was, therefore, administered to 19 leopard seals. It produced faster induction (19 ± 3 min), more effective and reliable response to dose (rank correlation: r s = 0.88, n = 18), and better pulmonary ventilation and faster return of cognitive function upon recovery, in comparison to midazolam/pethidine. Best results were achieved with tiletamine/zolazepam (1.2-1.4 mg/kg) which safely immobilized seven of nine seals for 20-30 min. Entry to the water upon darting was minimized, but not eliminated, by the use of lightweight air-pressurized darts and a thorough knowledge of leopard seal behavior.

Objective To determine the effect of tiletamine–zolazepam (TZ) on canine intraocular pressure (IOP). Animals studied Six healthy dogs without ocular abnormalities were used in this study. Procedures The study was carried out as a crossover experimental trial with a 7-day interval between treatments. TZ combination was administered intravenously (IV) at a dose of 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg (TZ5, TZ10, and TZ20, respectively). Following preanesthetic baseline readings of IOP, each dog received IV TZ and then the IOP values were measured every 10 min for 40 min in all treatments. Results The baseline IOP values (mean ± standard deviation) for TZ5, TZ10, and TZ20 were 12.7 ± 0.8, 14.4 ± 1.2, and 15.3 ± 1.7 mmHg, and each IOP changed to 11.1 ± 1.1, 13.1 ± 1.4 and 13.5 ± 1.7 mmHg after intravenous administration of each TZ treatment, respectively. However, there were no statistical differences between baseline and post-treatment values. Conclusions The TZ combination had no clinically significant effect on IOP of the dog. This could be an option for induction or surgical procedures in dogs with ophthalmic problems when an increase in IOP is undesirable.

Twenty-six anesthetic procedures involving 24 free-living mountain gorillas (Gorilla gorilla beringei) from Rwanda or the Democratic Republic of Congo were performed between February 1987 and October 1997. Sixteen procedures were performed to remove snares or to treat snare-related wounds, and four of the animals died without recovering consciousness because of their severe medical conditions. Ketamine was used for induction 19 times, tiletamine/zolazepam was used five times, and the agent was not recorded for two procedures. The mean (+/- SD) ketamine dosage for four animals of known weight was 7.1 +/- 0.9 mg/kg. All induction agents were delivered i.m. by remote injection, and mean induction times for ketamine and tiletamine/zolazepam were 5.5 +/- 2.6 min (n = 12) and 5.4 +/- 3.7 min (n = 5), respectively. Mean recovery times were significantly shorter with ketamine compared with tiletamine/zolazepam (42.0 +/- 24.9 min, n = 9 vs. 75.25 +/- 22.1 min, n = 4). Low hemoglobin oxygen saturation (mean = 86.7%) was recorded in three cases under ketamine anesthesia, and oxygen insufflation is therefore recommended to prevent hypoxemia. Gorillas induced with tiletamine/zolazepam had significantly higher respiratory rates compared with animals given ketamine. Successful anesthesia and recovery, in particular, depended on the assistance of local personnel.

Background: The southern cassowary (Casuarius casuarius johnsonii) attains 1.8m in height and over 80kg in weight. These large birds are equipped with large claws and, although not a direct threat to humans, they have caused serious injury to handlers and members of the public. Methods and results: This study describes chemical immobilisation, restraint, transport and post-monitoring (satellite tracking) methodologies for adult and juvenile southern cassowaries, captured and released from their natural environment. Conclusions: The described methods have improved the management and research opportunities for the southern cassowary and may be transferable to other species of large ratite.

Objective—To evaluate antinociceptive and selected effects associated with IM administration of xylazine hydrochloride in combination with tiletamine-zolazepam in llamas. Animals—8 adult male llamas. Procedures—Each llama received tiletamine-zolazepam (2 mg/kg) combined with either xylazine (0.1, 0.2, or 0.4 mg/kg) or saline (0.9% NaCl) solution IM (treatments designated as TZ-Xy0.1, TZ-Xy0.2, TZ-Xy0.4, and TZ-Sal, respectively) at 1-week intervals. Selected cardiorespiratory variables were assessed during lateral recumbency and anesthesia, and recovery characteristics were recorded. Duration of antinociception was evaluated by clamping a claw every 5 minutes. Results—Interval between treatment administration and lateral recumbency for TZ-Xy0.4 was shorter than that for TZ-Xy0.1 or TZ-Sal. Mean ± SEM duration of antinociception was longer for TZ-Xy0.4 (51.3 ± 7. 0 minutes), compared with findings for TZ-Xy0.2 (31.9 ± 6.0 minutes), TZ-Xy0.1 (8.1 ± 4.0 minutes), and TZ-Sal (0.6 ± 0.6 minutes). Interval between treatment administration and standing was longer for TZ-Xy0.4 (112 ± 9 minutes) than it was for TZ-Xy0.2 (77 ± 9 minutes) or TZ-Sal (68 ± 9 minutes). Mean heart and respiratory rates during the first 30 minutes for TZ-Sal exceeded values for the other treatments. Administration of TZ-Xy0.2 and TZ-Xy0.4 resulted in Pao2 < 60 mm Hg at 5 minutes after llamas attained lateral recumbency, and values differed from TZ-Sal findings at 5, 10, and 15 minutes; Paco2 was greater for TZ-Xy0.2 and TZ-Xy0.4 than for TZ-Sal at 5, 10, 15, and 20 minutes. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Xylazine (0.2 and 0.4 mg/kg) increased the duration of antinociception in llamas anesthetized with tiletamine-zolazepam.

Context Helicopter darting (chemical immobilisation) is a very useful technique for large wild herbivores, such as feral horses (Equus caballus). There is currently no reliable framework to report on the animal welfare impacts of helicopter darting methods. Aim The aim of this study was to develop an animal welfare assessment framework for helicopter darting methods, using quantifiable parameters, and to test it with a case study using a newly developed feral horse capture technique. Methods Quantifiable animal welfare parameters were recorded for 11 feral horses captured using a traditional helicopter darting method in north-western Australia in October 2014. Welfare parameters chosen focused on quantifying the duration of procedures and the frequency of adverse events. They included chase time (CT; min) before darting, induction time (IT; min) between darting and recumbency, recumbency time (RT; min), total time (TT; CT+IT+RT; min), repeat-darting rate (animals requiring >1 dart; %), target zone accuracy rate (darts striking the intended anatomical area; %) and mortality rate (at time of capture and 14 days post-capture; %). Results Median CT was 2 min, median IT was 19 min, median RT was 16 min and median TT was 38 min. Repeat-darting rate was 45%, target zone accuracy rate was 53% and mortality rates (time of capture and 14 days post-capture) were zero. Conclusions Animal welfare parameters can be quantified for helicopter darting through estimation of the duration of procedures and the frequency of adverse events. Use of this framework will allow the identification of parameters requiring refinement for newly developed helicopter darting techniques. Implications Animal welfare parameters are particularly important for helicopter-based darting methods. Pilot studies, using quantified parameters, should be performed for newly developed capture techniques before they are approved for large-scale programs.