A New Method for On-Farm Euthanasia with Animal Welfare Considerations

Abstract

Objective: Euthanasia of animals is a highly stressful situation for veterinarians and may be source of ethical dilemmas; also, it is very difficult to decide “which technique is more appropriate for the given situation"? The aim of this study was to describe a new humane method for on-farm euthanasia.<br /> Design: Pilot clinical trial. <br /> Animals: thirteen animals including three horses, six sheep and four goats were nominated for euthanasia.<br /> Procedures: After induction of anesthesia by combination of xylazine-acepromazine and ketamine, according to Modified Glasgow Coma Scoring System, unconsciousness of all animals was established. Then, 4-12 mL lidocaine was injected intrathecally, and quality of death, vital signs and electrical activity of heart were assessed subsequently.<br /> Results: The results suggest that direct application of lidocaine on medullary region of CNS after induction anesthesia may causes loss of consciousness, respiratory arrest, bradycardia, atrioventricular block and finally cardiac arrest.<br /> Conclusion and Clinical Relevance: Results showed that this method can be considered as an inexpensive, rapid and humane way to end an animal's life.