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|
| The presence
of a heart beat can best be determined with a stethoscope placed under
the left elbow. Please note that a pulse is usually not palpable under
such circumstances and should not be used to confirm death. Movement
of the chest indicates respiration but respiration rates may be very
erratic and slow in unconscious animals. Therefore, one must be cautious
in the interpretation of respiration for confirmation of death. One
may test for evidence of a corneal reflex by touching the surface
of the eyeball. Normal or conscious animals will blink when the eyeball
is touched. Absence of a corneal reflex, failure to detect respiration,
and absence of a heart beat for a period of more than 5 minutes should
be used to confirm death. An alternative is to observe the animal
over a period of several hours. Lack of movement, absence of a heartbeat,
respiration, or corneal reflex over an extended period of time provides
further confirmation of death. |
| Special
Considerations for Euthanasia of Bulls |
| Bulls
present particular challenges because of size, attitude, and
the physical thickness of their skull. Specialized heavy duty
penetrating captive bolt guns or higher caliber firearms (9
mm or .357) are required for euthanasia of bulls. As described
previously, safety is of paramount importance. Since ideal positioning
of either device requires close contact with the animal, restraint
is usually necessary. Operators should recognize that restraint
alone causes significant distress. By preparing the euthanasia
device for use prior to restraining the animal, one can limit
the restraint-related stress period. |
 |
|
| Unacceptable
Methods of Euthanasia |
| The following is a partial
list of methods considered as “unacceptable” for euthanasia
of livestock: |
|
•
Manually applied blunt trauma to the head such as a large
hammer
• Injection of any chemical substance not labeled for
use as a euthanasia agent
• Injection of air into a vein
• Electrocution as with a 120 or 220 volt electrical
cord
|
|
|
Under Florida law use of any of the above methods for
euthanasia of livestock may be considered a violation of Chapter 828.12
which states that: A person who intentionally commits an act to any
animal which results in the cruel death, or excessive or repeated
infliction of unnecessary pain or suffering, or causes the same to
be done, is guilty of a felony of the third degree, punishable as
provided in section 775.082 or by a fine of not more than $10,000
or both. |
| Personnel
Training |
Large farms and ranches
are advised to develop personnel training programs for proper instruction
of humane euthanasia techniques. As indicated in the previous discussion,
the skill and experience of personnel are of paramount importance
when gunshot or penetrating captive bolt/exsanguination are used for
euthanasia of sick and debilitated animals. Experience has shown that
many people (even those experienced in handling livestock) are not
aware of the anatomical landmarks for proper execution of these techniques.
Furthermore, persons should be aware that there is significant danger
for the operator (or for bystanders with gunshot) whenever these methods
of euthanasia are used. On large farms or ranches, most, if not all,
persons should be familiar with these procedures and several should
be specifically trained to perform this task. However, only those
who can demonstrate a working knowledge and proficiency with the techniques
should be permitted to perform euthanasia procedures. When these methods
are not properly performed, animals may become injured, have varying
degrees of consciousness, and experience needless pain and distress.
Experienced persons should assist in the training of inexperienced
persons and utilize carcasses to demonstrate anatomical landmarks
and application of the various techniques. Carcasses should be used
for practice by trainees until they become competent with the procedures.
People must also be aware of how to confirm death. In some cases this
may require specific training with, and observation of, live animals. |
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