1 - Euthanasia

Question 1

What 4 methods are acceptable for equine euthanasia?

Answer 1

Barbiturate overdose
Gunshot to brain
Penetrating captive bolt
KCl

Question 2

How is barbiturate overdose performed? What is the MOA?

Answer 2

Sodium pentobarbital - rapid IV admin

CNS depression causes rapid loss of consciousness and deep anesthesia. Progression to respiratory and cardiac arrest

Question 3

T/F: Some methods of equine euthanasia prevent the horse from falling.

Answer 3

FALSE. Horses will always fall

Question 4

What side effects can be expected with barbiturate overdose?

Answer 4

Muscular movements and agonal gasping

Question 5

How should you monitor for death in barbiturate overdose?

Answer 5

Loss of corneal reflexes

Cessation of heart beat

Question 6

When is KCl euthanasia appropriate? What is the MOA?

Answer 6

ONLY when horse under general anesthesia

Induces cardiac arrhythmia leading to hypoxia and lack of perfusion

Question 7

What additional method of euthanasia are acceptable in cattle?

Answer 7

Exsanguination (when already unconscious)

Question 8

What are the landmarks for gunshot/bolt in the EQUINE?

Answer 8

Just above X made between ears and eyes

Question 9

What are the landmarks for gunshot/bolt in the BOVINE?

Answer 9

X made between horns and eyes

Question 10

What are the landmarks for gunshot/bolt in the GOAT?

Answer 10

Midline behind the poll aiming toward the muzzle and lower chin

Question 11

What are the landmarks for gunshot/bolt in the SHEEP (polled)?

Answer 11

Top down toward throat latch

Question 12

What are the landmarks for gunshot/bolt in the HORNED RAMS/EWES?

Answer 12

Same as polled sheep OR bovine