by Anthony A. Pilny, DVM, DABVP (Avian) Multiple pharmaceutical grade products available. Consult a Research Animal Resources (RAR) veterinarian regarding specific agents. Although CO ... (rabbit, dog, swine, ferret, etc. Euthanasia is never a welfare issue, however failure to euthanize in a timely fashion can be. Injectable agents can be administered via the dorsal lymph sac in Xenopus and some other amphibian species. Animal Use Protocol (AUP) and approved by the Facility Animal Care Committee (FACC). The IACUC has oversight of all animal-related activities performed at UConn Health. Note: Complete this protocol form only if polyclonal antibodies will be produced in rabbits and all animal manipulations will be performed by trained research personnel according to the standard procedures detailed in this form. Dosing is the same for the commercial product Fatal-Plus®. Peripheral vasodilatation This unit offers protocols for euthanasia employing carbon dioxide asphyxiation (see Basic Protocol 1), pentobarbital overdose (see Basic Protocol 2), exsanguination, and cervical dislocation for the mouse, rat, hamster, and rabbit. Injectable anesthetic overdoseAdministration varies (IP or IV). 10 - 100 mg/kg Policy The IACUC reviews all protocols using physical techniques to assure that personnel performing the procedures are appropriately trained. Physical methods of euthanasia are also an appropriate means to assure death after euthanasia with CO 2 or anesthetics used as euthanasia agents. One study found the risk of a rabbit dying under anesthesia to be about 1.39% overall – which is fairly low, but higher than for dogs and cats.1. The rabbit should be sedated, but not anesthetized. STANDARDIZED PROTOCOL FOR PRODUCTION OF POLYCLONAL ANTIBODIES IN RABBITS . A good physical examination and appropriate diagnostic evaluation including: blood tests to evaluate health, renal function, and PCV etc., and radiographs and ultrasound exams could also be part of anesthetic planning. It must be noted that any patient undergoing anesthesia, no matter the age or health status, accepts some risk and/or chance of unplanned or unexpected complications that could arise. Careful handling and restraint of rabbits is always necessary with both back support before and during anesthesia and monitored recovery after anesthesia. Introduction Euthanasia is the process of inducing an easy, fast and painless death. Acceptable Methods of … Adjust the isofurane flow rate or concentration to 5% or greater; Continue isoflurane exposure until one minute after breathing stops; Confirm Euthanasia as described previously in this document. Find standard acceptable animal euthanasia methods based on. Document observation. p. 7 G;1,-315- 4: Euthanasia should aim to minimize any pain and distress experienced by the animal prior to loss of con - Rabbit anesthesia when done safely and smartly should not be a hindrance to management of surgical patients and risks and fears should not outweigh the benefits. IM. Additionally, fasting reduces the overall volume of the gastrointestinal tract, reducing pressure on the diaphragm whi… This is a controlled substance (DEA Schedule II). 1. Cervical dislocation: 5.5.4.1. B. Isoflurane Inhalation 1. Keywords: animal welfare, euthanasia, lidocaine, intrathecal, cardiopulmonary arrest. Sodium pentobarbital≥100 mg/kg IP or IV. May require prolonged exposure to ensure death. 2-PhenoxyethanolImmersion; 0.3-0.4 mg/liter water bath. Hospitalized rabbits often require doubling of maintenance rates, or 10 mL/kg/hr. Cervical dislocationUse in conscious small rodents requires demonstrated technical skill (or must be performed only on unconscious/anesthetized small rodents). Consult an RAR veterinarian regarding specific agents. 40 - 50 m g/kg. Euthanasia solution≥86 mg/kg IP or IV. Find services, facilities, and equipment for researchers, Mice, rats, gerbils, hamsters, or other small rodents, Livestock (cattle, goats, horses, sheep, or swine). Anesthesia followed by potassium chloride75-150 mg/kg KCl IV. Make a “bunny burrito” by wrapping the rabbit in a towel when needed to facilitate IM injections that can startle the rabbit. Instead euthanasia is an ethical decision. Euthanasia of the Rabbit. Careful handling and restraint of rabbits is always necessary with both back support before and during anesthesia and monitored recovery after anesthesia. Pre-anesthetic evaluation is critically important and sometimes overlooked with rabbit patients and thus complications and death are blamed on the anesthesia rather than poor patient management. To sedate the rabbit administer 10-25 mg/kg Ketamine + 1-3 mg/kg acepromazine IM in the caudal (quadriceps) muscles of the hind leg. DecapitationUse in conscious small rodents requires demonstrated technical skill (or must be performed only on unconscious/anesthetized small rodents). RHDV is often a very swift and sudden killer, giving little warning. Rapid chilling (ice/water bath) to 2°-4°COnly for zebrafish or small tropical/subtropical fish smaller than 3.8 cm in length. Euthanasia solution ≥86 mg/kg IP or IV. The protocol must specify criteria that will be used to determine when euthanasia may be required, so that the investigator and/or veterinarian can ensure humane endpoints and fulfillment of protocol objectives. NSAIDs and opioids are often used in synergy. Carbon dioxide (CO2)Inhalation to effect. Prolonged exposure may be required for neonates and fetuses. This is a controlled substance (DEA Schedule II). What Happens During an Euthanasia Appointment? p. 7 G;1,-315- 3: Euthanasia should result in rapid loss of consciousness, followed by respiratory and cardiac arrest and ultimate loss of all brain function. Flow rate must displace no more than 30% of the chamber volume/minute. Alternative Chemical Euthanasia Protocols: Equine and Bovine Patients Note #1: These are suggested doses and agents – every patient is unique and doses of each agent may need to be adjusted according to clinical indication and the safety of personnel involved in the procedure. The agents and methods for euthanasia that are widely considered to be acceptable in rabbits include the use of barbiturates, inhalant anesthetics, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and potassium chloride combined with general anesthesia. Subsequently, the University of Michigan (U-M) has updated our practices and guidance documents to ensure that we are compliant … Xenopus. Anesthesia followed by physical methodCervical dislocation, decapitation, exsanguination, bilateral pneumothorax. An important feature of the changes in the AVMA Guidelines includes updates to recommended carbon dioxide (CO2) flow rates for rodent euthanasia. b. Rabbits may be sedated to facilitate handling. We are committed to protecting research participants, upholding ethical standards, and improving our practice at every step of our work. Pass/Fail/ NA 1.1.1 If euthanasia is observed, do caretakers confirm death after the euthanasia method is applied? Stress should be as minimal as possible considering the nature of rabbits. Rabbits cannot vomit, so fasting is not mandatory. Sodium pentobarbital≥100 mg/kg intracoelomic (ICL) or IV. Approval of the protocol indicates approval of the deviation from the SOP for that project only. Butorphanol/ acepromazine . Make a “bunny burrito” by wrapping the rabbit in a towel when needed to facilitate IM injections that can startle the rabbit. Tricaine methanesulfonate (MS-222)Immersion; 3 g/liter water bath (Buffered to pH 7.0-7.5 with sodium bicarbonate). Do not prefill the chamber. The IACUC uses the AVMA Guidelines on Euthanasia for all its recommendations. NA if not observed. Euthanasia is required when an untreatable disease (acute or chronic) has progressed to the extent that medication cannot prevent the rabbit from suffering. Confirm Euthanasia as described previously in this document; Isoflurane Euthanasia. Euthanasia decision making AVMA Guidelines for the Euthanasia of Animals: 2013 Edition Euthanizing agents •3 basic mechanisms: •direct depression of neurons necessary for life function •hypoxia •physical disruption of brain activity •Minimize or eliminate pain, anxiety, and distress prior to loss of consciousness Confirmation of death Attention to analgesia is critical and especially important in the post-operative period. The Center for Avian & Exotic Medicine, Designed by Elegant Themes | Powered by WordPress, HRS Conference Veterinary and Behavior Videos. Administered rapidly to effect. Use in rats >200 g to be performed under anesthesia only. NA if not observed. trained euthanasia technicians) to follow in providing euthanasia for a variety of species. Contains sodium pentobarbital 390 mg/ml + sodium phenytoin 50 mg/ml (dosing based on barbiturate concentration). Moderate sedation. Practitioners should adopt protocols that work for them, perform appropriate pre-anesthetic evaluation, and develop an understanding of the unique characteristics of rabbits that make them such amazing animals! Consult an RAR veterinarian regarding s… However, a factor to consider is that this will involve more handling which in itself may add Keep the head slightly elevated when in dorsal recumbency with the neck extended and never keep the rabbit on hard surfaces – use towels or padding and avoid v-trays. DRUG DOSE ROUTE FREQUENCY COMMENTS Analgesics . The AVMA report is the most extensive study of euthanasia methods currently available. Dry ice must not be used to generate CO2 for euthanasia. ), death can be confirmed by cardiac arrest documented by an electrocardiogram or use of a stethoscope to confirm the heart does not beat for at least one minute, decapitation, or creating a However, a pre-anesthetic fast of one to four hours is recommended, as they accumulate food and fluid within the oral cavity and oropharynx. Isoflurane overdoseInhalation to effect. This is a controlled substance (DEA Schedule II). selected, consistent with the nature of the experimental protocol. A new protocol of anesthesia using thiopental, diazepam and xylazine in White New Zealand rabbits September 2011 Australian Journal of Basic and Applied Sciences 5(9):1296-1300 Never hesitate to postpone or cancel anesthesia when it’s in the patient’s best interest. Find standard acceptable animal euthanasia methods based on guidelines from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). IV = IntravenousIP = IntraperitonealICL = Intracoelomic, Also see: Guidelines for euthanasia of animals used in research, teaching and display, compmed@umn.eduVeterinary Services Office: 612-624-9100Business Office: 612-624-6169, 420 Delaware St. SEMMC 351 (Campus Delivery Code)Minneapolis, MN 55455, Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC)eProtocol (sign-in required)Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC)Research Occupational Health Program (ROHP), Helping researchers external and internal to the University of Minnesota find services, facilities, and equipment, Research Ethics at the University of Minnesota. Whether we come to your home or you bring your pet to our clinic, we will use Fear Free℠ techniques to minimize any fear, anxiety, or stress your pet may experience. Carbon dioxide (CO2)Inhalation to effect. Administered rapidly to effect. 2. This unit offers protocols for euthanasia employing carbon dioxide asphyxiation (see Basic Protocol 1), pentobarbital overdose (see Basic Protocol 2), exsanguination, and cervical dislocation for the mouse, rat, hamster, and rabbit. In addition to fluid support, pain control is also commonly needed. RHDV1 1-3 days. Administer rapidly to effect. It helps reduce salivation, bronchial secretions, and avoids vagal induced bradycardia. Injectable anesthetic overdoseAdministration varies (IP or IV). Euthanasia solution≥86 mg/kg ICL or IV. Ketamine: Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic (which technically means that the brain and body are experienced separately by the patient) most often combined with valium to produce the same effect as Telazol. This is a controlled substance (DEA Schedule III). Carbon dioxide (CO2)Inhalation to effect. 5.5.3. Use in conscious small rodents requires demonstrated technical skill (or must be performed only on unconscious/anesthetized small rodents). Contains sodium pentobarbital 390 mg/ml + sodium phenytoin 50 mg/ml (dosing based on barbiturate concentration). Fasting for more than 1 hour is unnecessary and should be avoided. Anesthesia followed by potassium chloride75-150 mg/kg KCl IV. The method must be accomplished without inflicting additional injury to the rabbit. This is a controlled substance (DEA Schedule III). • Euthanasia chambers should be kept clean and free of debris and excreta. Contains sodium pentobarbital 390 mg/ml + sodium phenytoin 50 mg/ml (dosing based on barbiturate concentration). Taping the legs is preferable to tying the limbs for surgical procedures. Physical euthanasia without anesthesia will be considered by the IACUC on a case by case basis. Injection of Sodium Pentobarbital (euthanasia solution) IV; Intracoelomic, intracardiac and intraosseous injections can be used in unconscious or anesthetized birds. The following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) were created and/or revised by the Veterinary Care Subcommittee and/or the Occupational Health and Safety Subcommittee, and approved by the University Animal Care Committee. This is a controlled substance (DEA Schedule III). Anesthesia followed by potassium chloride75-150 mg/kg KCl IV. 5.5.4. When administered as an overdose as part of euthanasia, a complete anesthesia results (no pain can be felt). The procedure should be performed with highest degree of respect for animal and it has to be safe for the operator 1- Corresponding author: Seyed Masoud, Zolhavarieh, DVM, DVSc Gas inflow into the euthanasia chamber must be regulated to displace 30-70% of the chamber or cage volume per minute. This is a controlled substance (DEA Schedule II). Give the acepromazine first. Chemical euthanasia with an overdose of intravenous pentobarbital - based euthanasia solution is the preferred euthanasia method for mammals with practical vascular access (e.g., rabbits). Practitioners are referred to Chapter 4 in the Textbook of Rabbit Medicine (Molly Varga: 2nd edition, 2014) for a complete overview of the principles of safe rabbit anesthesia. Use in rats >200 g to be performed under anesthesia only. 1.1.0 If euthanasia is observed, are rabbits handled humanely during the process? Sodium pentobarbital≥100 mg/kg intraperitoneal (IP) or intravenous (IV). Injectable anesthetic overdoseVaries (IP or IV). Multiple pharmaceutical grade products available. Allow … 1 Guidelines for Euthanasia of Rodents Using Carbon Dioxide Carbon dioxide (CO 2) inhalation is the most common method of euthanasia used at NIH for small animals (i.e., mice, rats, guinea pigs, and hamsters). Sick rabbits should be stabilized when needed to be sure they are appropriate anesthetic patients. an approved justification in the IACUC protocol. 1 mg/kg / 0.5 mg/kg. Intraperitoneal pentobarbital is acceptable for smaller mammals when intravenous access is not practical. A non-profit rabbit rescue and education organization, Many veterinarians and pet owners believe rabbit anesthesia is always a high-risk procedure; however, when done properly the risks are low and do not outweigh the benefits. Anesthetizing a rabbit on a level surface is also acceptable, however, caution should be taken to avoid inadvertently elevating the rabbit's hindquarters. Dosing is the same for the commercial product Fatal-Plus®. Carbon dioxide (CO2)Immersion; water bath saturated with CO2. CO2 tanks with euthanasia chambers are located in many of the animal facility procedure rooms. AVMA Guidelines for the Euthanasia of Animals: 2013 Edition Members of the Panel on Euthanasia Steven Leary, DVM, DACLAM (Chair); Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri Incubation Period. Injectable anesthetic overdose Administration varies (IP or IV). Flow rate must displace 30-70% of the chamber volume/minute. Dosing is the same for the commercial product Fatal-Plus®. Any sudden rabbit death is suspicious and should be reported to your veterinarian as a possible case of RHDV. The UConn Health IACUC is committed to the humane care and use of laboratory animals. Recommended Rabbit Analgesic & Anesthetic Agents . Our appointments may include ignoring your pet … Consult an RAR veterinarian regarding specific agents. Sodium pentobarbital ≥100 mg/kg IP or IV. Advanced Research and Diagnostics Laboratory, Services for Researchers External to the University, Research & Support in the health sciences, guidelines from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), Guidelines for euthanasia of animals used in research, teaching and display, Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC), Research Occupational Health Program (ROHP). The association’s panel evaluates each method based on 14 criteria: 1. ability to induce loss of consciousness protocols must trigger euthanasia by either members of the investigative team and/or veterinary staff. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recently updated the Guidelines for Euthanasia of Animals. Important steps must be taken to ensure anesthesia is done properly and safely leading to a successful outcome. Rabbits Carnivores - dogs, cats, ferrets Large mammals - pigs, sheep, goats, cattle, horses ... to euthanasia may be considered as a method of reducing possible anxiety and distress. 1. The dosage of meloxicam in rabbits is 1 mg/kg/day, which … Rabbits may die within 12-36 hours to a few weeks, after the onset of symptoms. Apply sterile non-medicated ophthalmic ointment to the eyes to prevent corneal drying during anesthesia or sedation. Quiet cage rest after administration of pre-medications for 5-10 minutes is ideal to allow for sedation to take effect. up to 3 mg/kg, SC in atropinase positive rabbits. Use in rats >200 g to be performed under anesthesia only. Benzocaine hydrochlorideImmersion; 250 mg/liter water bath. Useless in a high proportion of rabbits, due to the presence of serum atropinase. • Euthanasia chambers should be large enough to permit each animal to stand on the floor of the chamber with all 4 feet and have sufficient space to turn around and perform normal postural adjustments. Rabbits may die without showing any symptoms at all. Aspirin. Some sample anesthetic protocols are shown below and are intended to precede gas anesthesia (isoflurane or sevoflurane) for maintenance. Multiple pharmaceutical grade products available. Dosing is the same for the commercial product Fatal-Plus®.