Canine Restraint Flashcards
variety of mechanical restraint device
leashgauntlet
gauntlet
muzzle
catchpole
voice
Leashes
One of the most readily available and simple tools for restraining dogs is the leash.
Leashes in the hospital setting are typically comprised of a nylon rope with a handle at one end and a slip loop (for quick size adjustments) on the opposite end. It should be held open above the dog’s head and readily available to place around the head or body when restraint is indicated. The slip loop allows for easy tightening or loosening when restraining or releasing the patient.
heavy leather gloves
known as gauntlets are often indicated. These are used to protect the hands and forearms when dealing with aggressive or fearful animals. Although gauntlets are made of thick leather, dogs, cats and birds have been known to bite or pinch through them. The thickness of the gloves typically allows the wearer to feel the bite or pinch before major injury occurs, thus enabling the team member to circumvent a potentially serious situation. Remember, the gauntlets may reduce the wearer’s overall sense of touch and strength. Therefore, the wearer must take care not to exert excessive pressure on patients during restraint procedures. A decreased sense of touch and strength coupled with the restrainer’s increased excitability and adrenaline can be a very dangerous mix.
muzzle
The muzzles most often used are a wire/Baskerville muzzle, a nylon/Mikki muzzle, or a gauze muzzle. In place of a commercially manufactured muzzle, health-care team members can utilize a roll of gauze, a nylon sock, or even a piece of rope. However, the dog needs constant monitoring when it is muzzled to ensure there is no obstruction to the airway. Care must also be taken to ensure the muzzle can be removed efficiently and quickly. If the dog is thought to be likely to bite, its head should be safely restrained by a health-care team member while the muzzle is removed. Muzzles should be used only short term because they prevent dogs from panting and could thus lead to overheating should the muzzle be left on for extended periods. The health-care team should be especially prudent when using muzzles on brachycephalic breeds. Typically, a gauze muzzle is to be used for brachycephalic breeds. Scissors should be close at all times in the event a muzzle needs to be cut off and quickly removed.
catchpole
There are many names for this device—catchpole, dog catcher, rabies pole. This is a rigid pole that allows the health-care team member to remain at a distance from the dog while restraining it. The catchpole has a quick release handle, which ensures that the dog does not become strangled. Care must be taken at all times to ensure that the dog is not choking but that the loop is tight enough around the dog’s head to prevent it from slipping out. The catchpole has a loop at one end that is placed around the animal’s neck and tightened. Using this type of restraint allows for another team member to approach the animal from behind to administer medication or examine the animal.
voice
the health-care team member can use his or her voice to help comfort and soothe a frightened or nervous animal. It is advised to use a soft tone. For some dogs, a higher pitched voice will be soothing, and for others, a voice tone that is deep and authoritative in nature should be used. The health-care team member should use the voice tone that makes the most sense with each dog. The use of a soft voice, regardless of the pitch, is calming to dogs. Many animals respond to a gentle serenade or shushing sound. Oftentimes, light restraint with a gentle voice is all that is needed to reassure a dog
hospitalization collar
patient’s name
owner’s name
hospital admission date
attending veterinarian
reason for admission
allergies and/or warnings – large/bright for team to
notice easily
medical card
food fed
type of food
amount of food eaten
water given and amount
amount of water patient drank
urination
defecation
body temperature and time taken
medications administered, time administered
