Euthanasia

Question 1

What can RSPCA officers use to euthanise wild animals?

Answer 1

Pentobarbitone

Question 2

Discuss getting consent for euthanasia

Answer 2

• Owner must be at least 16 to give consent

- In being given by telephone, should use a witness and have them countersign form

Question 3

Explain the relevancy of the animal welfare act on consent for euthanasia

Answer 3

• Vets are authorised to destroy in distress animals without owner consent.
• Vet surgeon may be asked for an opinion but has no authority
• Can act without owner’s consent if suffering but comprehensive notes must be kept

Question 4

Discuss euthanasia in equine sports

Answer 4

• If owner isn’t available then trainer should be sought
• Record all circumstances supporting your decision
• Get confirmation from another vet
• Ensure you have adequate sporting vet insurance cover

Question 5

Discuss destruction of dangerous dogs

Answer 5

• Should request destruction order from court unless there is a genuine threat to human safety.
• Legislation involved

Question 6

What impact does the wildlife and countryside act 1981 have on wildlife casualties and the law?

Answer 6

-Suffering wild animals can be taken for treatment, if an animal is injured/ diseased beyond hope then it may be killed
(not suffering of wild animals also covered in animal welfare act)

Question 7

Describe different hypoxia slaughter methods

Answer 7

1) inhalation (CO, CO2, N)
2) render unconscious (electrical stunning, non pen captive bolt, CO2)
3) Rapid killing: exsanguination, electrocution, potassium chloride injection
- Kosher/ halal

Question 8

When using inhalent gases what should you consider?

Answer 8

• Rapid gas can be noisy/ scary
• Alveolar concentrations rise slowly with decreased ventilation
• Neonates resistant to hypoxia
• Reptiles/ amphibians/ diving birds/ mammals= very resistant to hypoxia