Handling and Restraint

How do injuries happen in the Veterinary Team?

• Many injuries happen when an animal bites or scratches a staff member unable to recognize the signs of fear or aggression. • Injuries result when veterinary staffers improperly lift animals onto tables.

What is a Pig Catcher and how do you use it?

A pig catcher is a long-handled, clamp with a rope that is used to hold the ends of the clamp shut. To use a pig catcher; apply the clamp around one of the pig's rear legs, then pull the rope to hold the clamp tightly around the pig's leg.

What is a Snubbing Rope and how do you use it?

A snubbing rope is a tool used to restrain a capture pig's head; it is a rope with a loop at one end, tied in a slip knot; so the loop can be tightened. To use a snubbing rope; place one end of the rope in front of the pig. When the pig opens it's mouth, slip the loop into the mouth and quickly push the loop so it rests behind the pig's tusks. You can hold this rope or tie it to a stationary object. Never leave a pig unattended in this rope because it may chew it off.

What can the Towel Restraint be used for?

A towel can be used to restrain birds for examination and some technical procedures.

What tool and technique is used to help restrain an aggressive ferret?

A towel is used to restrain an aggressive ferret; you may also hold the aggressive ferret's head between your thumb and forefinger.

Are Birds easy to Handle and Restrain?

Bird present the biggest challenge in handling and restraint because by the time the bird gets to the clinic it will already be under extreme stress.

How do you lead a horse?

First, never lead a horse by holding its halter. Stand on the horse's left side while holding the lead rope in your right hand about 18 inches from the horse's head, with the remainder in loose loops, make sure to never wrap the rope around your hand. Walk on the horse's left side, making sure to stay in the zone between its head and shoulder.

If a turtle retracts its legs and head what should you do?

First, never place your face or hands directly in front of a retracted turtle. If you wish to pull the turtle's head from its shell; use a pair of tongs.

How do Transport Pigs?

Pigs are transported in groups inside of trucks or trailers but since pigs can become overheated they must have the maximum amount of air circulation between each animal. Male pigs and females with litters should be transported in individual crates.

What does a restrainer do when a flock of sheep receive medication?

When a flock of sheep receives medication the restrainer will mark each sheep with a marking crayon so no animal gets a double dose.

What is a sign that a horse is getting aggressive?

When a horse pull its ears back and lower its head it is signaling aggression.

What happens when a rabbit kicks violently?

When a rabbit kicks violently it can break its own spine.

What is a V-Trough and how do you use it?

A V-Trough is a tool that is used to restrain small pigs on their back in the v-shaped trough; it is usually made of plywood. To use a V-Trough; capture the pig, lay it on it's back in the trough, attach a rope to one of it's forelegs, then pass the rope under the trough and tie it to the other foreleg; repeat on the rear legs.

What is a foal and how do you approach one?

A foal is a young horse under the age of one and are quite skittish when approached. To approach a foal; lead the mare into a small enclosure and the foal will most likely follow and hide behind her. When the foal attempts to move behind her, block it by placing one arm directly in front of it and other behind it. You can also secure a foal by holding the base of its tail and working toward a secure fixture such as a wall.

What is a Hobble and how do you use it?

A hobble is a tool used to restrain a pig onto it's side; you can buy hobbles or fashion them out of the pig's snubbing rope. To use a hobble; first use the snubbing rope's free end as a casting rope, then pass the end around the pig's rear legs; making a half hitch. Pull up on the rope to draw the rear legs toward the pig's nose; which forces the animal off of it's feet.

What is a Hog Snare and how do you use it?

A hog snare is a tool that looks and functions exactly like a dog snare; it is used to capture large pigs. To use a hog snare; place the loop over the pig's snout and pull it through from the handle end.

What should a horse wear during transportation?

A horse should wear commercial shipping boots or stall leg wraps.

What are the four basic guidelines you should follow when approaching a horse?

Always approach where the horse can see you; which is at the shoulder/neck area, speak softly to the horse, do not make sudden movements or noises because it may frighten the horse, and when you are near the horse, pat it on the shoulder/neck area and continue to speak softly to it.

What equipment is used for handling and restraining a horse?

Chain Shank: A tool used to distract a horse; it is a long leather leash with about a two-foot length of chain and a snap hook on the end. Horse Halter: A tool that is made of leather or heavy nylon that encircles the horse's head for restraint; it has a noseband, throat latch, and rings that can take a lead. Lead: A tool that allows you to hold and guide a horse; it is attached to the horse's halter and can be made of rope, leather, or even chain for a more powerful restraint. Lip Twitch: A tool used to stimulate a horse's nerves; it is composed of a long handle with a loop of rope or stainless steel on one end. Humane Twitch: A humane twitch is a one person twitch the main problem with this tool is that it can easily slip off and hit you. Hobble: A tool used to prevent a horse from kicking; it is leather strap applied around the horse's legs to prevent movement. You can also improvise this tool out of heavy rope. Stock: A stock is a small enclosure that partially restrains a horse for treatment; it is made out of metal bars or wooden planks. Blind Fold: A tool used to calm a frightened horse; you can use a towel or any other cloth to cover the horse's head.

Are Chickens normally easy to restrain?

Chicks are no problem to handle and restrain but occasionally hens may attack if you try to take their eggs. Roosters on the other hand are very difficult to restrain because they can be quite aggressive.

What is Cross Tying and how do you do it?

Cross tying is a technique that restricts a horse's side to side head movement and prevent it from turning around or rearing up. To cross-tie a horse; Attach two ropes to the halter and tie them to the cross-tie rings, which are normally placed in the barn/stall area; if rings are not available you can use two securely placed poles Ensure the ropes are placed high enough so the horse cannot rear up and tangle itself. Always use a quick-release knot when tying a horse.

What rodent restraint should be used in less/more stressful procedures?

For less stressful procedures; you can use manual restraint, but for more stressful situations it will most likely require mechanical or chemical restraint.

Are Goats easy to Handle and Restrain?

Goats are very unpredictable and can become agitated and aggressive very easily. So working with them will require a great amount of patience.

How do handlers move a pig to another location?

Handlers typically tie a rope into the pig's harness to take it to another location.

Are Pigs normally easy to handle and restrain?

Handling a pig can provide a challenge because the tusks of male pigs can be quite dangerous, they have strong jaws that can inflict severe bites and they have fragile skeletal systems.

How do you transport a horse?

Horses are transported into trailers that are designed to prevent them from turning around; double-stalled trailers are designed to separate animal. To transport a horse, lean the horse into the trailer and if the horse is scared; blind fold it first. Offer water every four hours and food according to its schedule.

Explain the need for humane restraint of animals in the veterinary setting.

Humane restraint is necessary in the veterinary setting because when you handle and restrain an animal properly you make everyone else's job possible which ensures that the animal receives care and treatment. Also with proper restraint you can ensure that the animal does not injure itself, escape, or injure others. Not only is restraint humane but the veterinary team depends upon it.

If a horse becomes frightened when you are capturing it you should?

If the horse becomes frightened when you are capturing it, a quick tug on the rope may help you to regain control, if the tug fails to calm the horse, release the rope. You can lure the resistant horse into a smaller pen to capture it; which is accomplished with a bucket of oats.

If you have to pass behind a horse you should?

If you have to pass behind a horse have at least 12 feet of clearance between you and the horse because the horse can kick 6 to 8 feet straight back; if you have less than twelve feet of clearance pass behind the horse as closely as possible.

What are some tools you can use for handling birds?

Lightweight leather gloves: A tool used for protection against bird bites. Tape: A tool used to tape an aggressive bird's beak shut. Towel: A tool used to restrain a bird for examination and most technical procedures.

What Equipment is used for Handling and Restraining Goats?

Like sheep goats required very little specialized equipment: Neck Chains: The ideal neck chain is composed of sturdy, flat links, which is least likely to catch on fences. Lead: A tool used to lead a goat wherever you need it to go. Leather Collars: A collar made of heavy, flat leather. Small enclosures: A tool used to confine a goat and make treatment easier for the goat and its handler

What three things should you do before handling a bird?

Make sure you have a net or towel to recapture the bird. Make sure that all doors and windows are shut and all exhaust fans are off. Ask the owner if the bird is trainer to hop in a finger or arm.

What should you never cover or press down on when handling a bird?

Never cover or press down on the bird's breastbone area because the breastbone must move for the bird to breathe properly.

What should you never grab a rabbit by?

Never grab a rabbit by it's ears because it may damage it's ear cartilage.

What should you never grab when handling a pig?

Never grab or hold the piglet by it's tail. Not only is this painful, but the hold allows the piglet to slip out of your grasp.

How do you keep a turtle from moving away from you?

Place it on a ledge or pedestal taller that its legs and small than its shell.

How do you weight a snake?

Place the snake in a large pillowcase, tie it shut and place it directly on the scale.

Discuss the fundamentals of animal restraint.

Proper animal restraint is to choose the appropriate method of restraint based upon the different behaviors and anatomies of different animals; there are three different types of animal restraint: Manual restraint: simply using your hands to hold the animal in the desired position; never hold the animal forcefully if more force is necessary use a mechanical restraint. Mechanical restraint: involves equipment such as leashes, collars, restraint bags, and poles; remember to always clean the device after each use. Chemical restraint: sedatives, tranquilizers, and anesthetics and is the least desirable restraint method because it may interfere with the diagnosis. These restraint methods are used to help the animal receive treatment, prevent escape, and injuries to the animal and the staff.

What must you always do when handling a foal?

Remember to always keep your eye on the mother just in case.

How do you restrain a Goat for a routine physical Examination?

Restrain a goat for a routine physical examination by lifting one of it's front legs or by grabbing it's beard for a short period of time.

How do you restraint a lizard?

Restrain a lizard by grabbing it around its shoulders and using your other hand to restrain its hindquarters.

How do you restrain a Turtle?

Restrain a turtle by grabbing its shell, make sure when restraining a snapping turtle grab it by the rear third of its shell so it cannot bite you.

What equipment is used for handling and restraining sheep?

Sheep require very little specialized equipment. Barriers: A tool that can be used to make temporary pens. Shepherd's Crook: A tool used to immobilize a sheep's movements.

How do you Approach and Capture Chicks?

Since chicks tend to scatter when you approach you can either scoop them up with a net or herd them toward the examination area.

How do you Approach a Pig?

Since pigs have poor eyesight approach it slowly; if the pig begins to run away it may overheat so your priority should be to cool the pig by sprinkling it with water.

How do you Approach and Capture Piglets?

Small pigs and piglets should be directed toward a small enclosure before attempted to capture an individual animal. To capture a piglet; approach the piglet from behind, then quickly grab it by one or both rear legs, then place your other arm under it's chest and lift it straight up. To carry a piglet, release the rear legs and place your hand under it's abdomen.

What tools are used to restrain poisonous or nonpoisonous snakes and how do you use them?

Snake hook: a tool used to press the snake's head against a solid surface like a floor or tabletop Plexiglas tube: A tool used to restrain a snake; this tube should have one opening, it should be half the length of the snake, and its diameter should be large enough for the snake to enter but small enough to prevent the snake from turning around. Let the snake enter the tube and grab the open end of the tube and the snake protruding from it; this hold will prevent the snake from backing up.

What restraint techniques are used on a bird for some technical procedures?

Some technical procedures require you to stretch the bird's neck slightly and some may require you to provide access to a wing for an injection into the wing vein.

What causes an animal to bite?

Sometimes minor pain or discomfort may cause animals to bite or scratch their handlers without warning signs.

What is your goal in handling and restraining a bird?

The goal in handling and restraining a bird is to always hold the bird so it cannot fly, bite, scratch or become injured.

What is the last resort when apply a twitch and never apply a twitch to what?

The last resort when applying a twitch is to apply it to the horse's lower lip; which is a very delicate area. Never apply a twitch to a horse's ear.

What is tail tying and how do you do it?

Tail tying is a technique used to move an animal's tail out of the way for certain procedures. To tail-tie a horse; locate the end of the tail's last vertebra and lay a piece of rope across it. Hold the rest of the tail up and over the rope, then pass one end behind the tail; making a large loop in the rope. Bring that loop over the folded tail and pass it tightly through the rope that is looped around the tail. You can use the other end of the rope to tie the tail to the horse's leg or neck.

What is the best way to restrain a horse?

The best way to restrain a horse is with the least possible amount of restraint.

What equipment is used for Handling and Restraining Fowl?

The equipment used to handle and restrain fowl: Catching Hook: A tool used to capture chickens and turkeys; the hook is about five inches long and is attached to a long wooden pole. Catching Net: A tool used to capture individual birds from a flock; it is usually attached to a long wooden pole.

What equipment is used for Handling and Restraining Pigs? (five)

The equipment used to handle and restrain pigs are the: Pig Catcher: A tool that is a long handled, clamp with a rope that holds the ends of the clamp shut. Hog Snare: A tool that looks and functions like a dog snare; it is used to capture large pigs. V-Trough: A tool that is used to restrain small pigs on their back in its V-shaped trough; it is usually made of plywood. Snubbing Rope: A tool that is used to restrain a captured pig's head; it is a rope with a loop at one end tied in a slip knot; so the loop can be tightened. Hobble: A tool that is used to restrain a pig on it's side; you can buy hobbles or fashion them using the pig's snubbing rope. Make sure to never apply a hobble to a pig that isn't already wearing a snubbing rope.

What are the two methods of applying a chain shank on a horse?

The first method of applying a chain shank is to; pass the chain through the cheek ring of the halter, then across the bridge of this nose and attach the hook to the opposite cheek ring. The second method of applying a chain shank is to; attach the chain to the same cheek ring, but pass the chain across the horse's upper lip by slipping the chain over its nose and with your thumb and index finger, slip it over the horse's top teeth and then side it over the teeth to the gums.

How do you stop a ferret from biting you?

To stop a ferret from biting you place it under running water this will force the ferret to release it's grip.

What three things make a horse difficult to approach?

The three things that make a horse difficult to approach are; horses cannot see directly in front/behind them, horses have very well-developed nervous systems; so they can be frightened easily, and horses are very temperamental and like to have their own way; no exceptions.

What are the tools used to restrain a rabbit? (there are two)

The tools used to restrain a rabbit are: Acrylic restraining device: A tool used to restrain a rabbit but it is only used for rabbits of a certain size. Towel: A tool used to wrap and restrain a rabbit comfortably.

What is another type of twitch?

There is another type of twitch that can be attached to the halter but just as the humane twitch it can slip off and possibly strike you.

How do you apply a halter and lead rope on a horse?

To apply a halter and lead rope on a horse; First, hold the neck strap and buckle end of the halter with your left hand, then stand on the horse's left and reach over its neck with your right hand. Grab the neck strap from your left hand and pass the halter back over the horse's neck; then gently slide the noseband on its nose and buckle the halter to the neck strap; then attach the lead rope to the center ring. If the halter is applied properly the rings should not press tightly against the horse's face.

How do you apply a humane twitch on a horse?

To apply a humane twitch on a horse; first, hold the humane twitch in your right hand while you hold the lead rope in your left. Place your fingers through the plier-like ends of the twitch, grab the horse's upper lip and place the twitch high up around the horse's lip. Then tighten the handles of the twitch and clip the rope to the halter so the twitch is held in place.

How do you use a Shepherd's crook?

To use a shepherd's crook: Place the hook high up on the animal's back leg, then quickly grab and hold the animal to prevent it from injuring it's leg

How do you apply a twitch on a horse?

To apply a twitch on a horse; hold the twitch firmly in your right hand so you do not lose control of the horse; with your left hand place the ends of your fingers in the loop of the twitch and grab the horse's upper lip and slide the loop around the lop and tighten the twitch by twisting the handle. Slightly tighten then loosen the twitch and tighten it against; repeat this throughout the entire procedure.

How do you approach a horse in a stall?

To approach a horse in a stall; since the horse is in the stall you may have to approach it from the rear speak to the horse as you enter and place your hand on its rump and gently guide the horse to one side of the stall to give you room. Now, walk to the horse's head and pat it.

How do you approach and capture Sheep and Lambs?

To approach and capture sheep and lambs: First, approach the flock of sheep while talking in a calm voice, gather the sheep into a small area. Once the flock is gathered, get the sheep to move around the pen by using a small prod, as the sheep are passing by determine which sheep you need to restrain and separate it. Quickly reach around the sheep and grab it's forequarters under it's neck and place your other arm around it's hindquarters this hold will allow you to direct the sheep to the treatment area.

How do you Approach, Capture, and Carry a Chicken?

To approach, capture, and carry a chicken: Approach the chicken slowly and stand next to it, then reach down and grab it's legs and pull the chicken straight up with it's head toward the ground. You can carry tame chickens this way; you may also carry them under your arm.

How do you calm a lizard?

To calm a lizard you can place a towel over its eyes or place the lizard on a wall because if makes the lizard feel more comfortable.

How do you capture a Bird that is trained to hop on a finger?

To capture a bird that is trained to hop on a finger: Reach into the cage and allow the bird to hop on your finger; once you have the bird out of the cage, gently drape a towel over it's back; then place your other hand on the bird's feet and hold them securely.

How do you capture a horse (in a field or pen)?

To capture a horse in a field/pen; approach the horse slowly while making sure it can both see and hear you coming; try to hide the lead rope from the horse's sight. If the horse displays no sign of fear or aggression, simply place the lead rope over it's neck, apply a halter on the horse and lead it away.

How do you capture a Large Bird in a Cage?

To capture a large caged bird: First, dim the lights to protect yourself from the bird's severe bite. Open the cage door and use a towel to block the opening, then remove any excess perches and toys; and place the towel lengthwise across your palm. Reach into the cage and grab the bird from behind by placing your hand behind the bird's head and positioning it's lower jaw between your thumb and index finger. Drape a towel around the bird as you pull it to the cage door. As you bring the bird through the cage door, use your other hand to hold the bird's feet securely.

How do you capture a skittish horse?

To capture a skittish horse; speak softly and move slowly toward the horse, when you reach the horse, pat it firmly on the neck area; then slowly slip a rope over its neck and if the horse remains calm place the lead rope over its neck.

How do you capture a small bird in a cage?

To capture a small caged bird: First, open the cage door and block it with your hand or towel, then remove all perches and toys so the bird cannot injure itself if frightened. Grab the bird with your hand by placing your palm around it's wings and securing it's head between your thumb and index finger. Then cradle the bird in your palm and place your index finger across it's legs. You can hold small birds this way for restraint and most technical procedures.

How do you Capture and Carry a Turkey?

To capture and carry a turkey: Grab the turkey with a catching hook or net, once the turkey is caught approach it slowly and wrap one arm around it's body; then pull the bird to your side ask you pick up and carry the bird under your arm with it's head toward your back.

How do you Carry and Restrain Lambs?

To carry a newborn lamb, place your hand between its forelegs and support its chest with your arm. You can carry lambs as you would for medium to large sized dogs.

How do you carry a rabbit?

To carry a rabbit; tuck the rabbit's nose into the crook of your elbow and support it's body on your forearm.

How do you distract a horse with a chain lead?

To distract a horse with a chain lead; pass the chain through the rings of the horse's nosepiece or along its gumline.

How do you pick up a ferret?

To pick up a ferret; place one hand under the ferret's chest, just behind it's forelegs, then pick it up and use your other hand to support it's hindquarters.

How do you pick up a Horse's front foot?

To pick up a horse's front foot; stand alongside the horse, close to its body, then place one hand on its shoulder and run the other down its leg to the fetlock, then place your palm under the fetlock and wrap your fingers around the joint. Gently squeeze the foot and lift it up. Then lean your shoulder on the animal which will make the horse shift its weight to its other feet. Now pull the foot slightly to the side and hold it with one hand.

How do you pick up a Horse's rear foot?

To pick up a horse's rear foot; stand alongside the horse at its shoulder, then run your hand along its side as you walk toward its rear. Once, you are at the horse's rear place one hand on the horse and run the other down its leg. Then use your shoulder to lean on the animal which will make the horst shift its weight to its other legs, now grab the horse's foot as you would the front.

How do you put a horse in a stock?

To put a horse in a stock; open both gates, then pass a lead rope on the top of the stock and allow the horse to enter; then close both gates. Never enter a stock with a horse.

How do you remove a rabbit from it's cage?

To remove a rabbit from it's cage; reach into the cage and grab a small amount of loose skin behind the rabbit's ears, face the rabbit away from you, then slide your other hand under it's hindquarters. Now, lift and pull the animal gently against your body.

How do you restrain a ferret with it's scruff during most technical procedures?

To restrain a ferret with it's scruff for a procedure; grab the ferret's scruff just behind it's ears and lift the ferret off of the table for restraint.

How do you restrain a goat for Venipuncture?

To restrain a goat for venipuncture: Restrain the goat as you would a dog, hold the goats beard with one hand and place your other arm around the goat's neck to hold it in place.

How do you restrain a goat on it's side?

To restrain a goat on its side: Stand alongside the goat reach one arm over the goat's back and reach the other arm over it's neck. Grab the legs closest to your body and gently lift up, this will make the goat off balance and go onto its side.

How do you restrain a Lamb for Tail Docking and Castration?

To restrain a lamb for tail docking and castration: First, gather the lambs into a small pen, sit down and grab the selected lamb's right leg with your right hand and it's left leg with your left hand. Now place the lamb on it's back and support it's legs with your legs. Another method is to stand and support the lamb's back with your body while holding it's legs as described earlier.

How do you restrain a Pig for oral medication?

To restrain a pig for oral medication lift the pig b it's front feet and hold it up with it's rear legs remaining on the ground.

How do you restrain a rabbit for intramuscular or subcutaneous injections?

To restrain a rabbit for intramuscular or subcutaneous injections; gently yet firmly press the rabbit against the table.

How do you restrain a rabbit for most technical procedures?

To restrain a rabbit for most technical procedures; place the rabbit on the examination table, then place your arms on either side of it. If the rabbit feels unsecure on a smooth surface; place a towel under it.

How do you restrain a small pig for injections and other technical procedures?

To restrain a small pig for injections and other technical procedures: Grab the pig by it's rear legs, lift it's body and place the piglet's head between your knees. The pig's front legs should touch the ground and it's back should be centered between your legs.

How do you restrain an Adult Sheep?

To restrain an adult sheep: Stand alongside the sheep, place one arm around its neck at the shoulder and reach over the animal and under it's abdomen as far as possible with your other arm. Gently lift up the sheep and tilt it on it's rump; then stand directly behind it so it's back rests against your legs. Tilt the sheep slightly back so it's remains off balance.

How do you restrain a Snake?

To restrain any nonpoisonous snake grab the animal behind its head and support its body on your arm. If the snake is longer than three feet than it will require one restrainer per each three feet.

How do you return a rabbit back into it's cage?

To return a rabbit back into it's cage; face the rabbit toward you, then place it's rear legs down in the cage first; this will prevent it from scratching you.

How do you transport Fowl?

Transport fowl by placing them into small crates and placing those crates into a truck.

How do you Herd and Capture a Pig?

You can herd and capture a pig by using hurdles to direct a group of pigs into a small enclosure. Once the pigs are in the enclosure, you can isolate the desired pig with a hurdle or simply lassoing it with a rope. Instead of directing the group with hurdles you can prod the pigs on the shoulder with a flat stick to direct them into the enclosure.

How do you restrain a ferret?

You can restrain a ferret as much as you would a cat, however when you scruff a ferret make sure that it's feet cannot touch the table because if so it can turn and bite you.

How do you restrain Fowl for physical examinations and most technical procedures?

You can restrain fowl for physical examinations and most technical procedures by pressing them gently yet firmly against a solid surface or by loosely grabbing around it's neck with one hand and grabbing it's feet with the other. If the bird is taking oral medication; stretch it's neck slightly.

How do you restrain Pigs and Piglets?

You can use equipment to restrain pigs and piglets, but they can be restrained manually.

When you are handling a horse with a veterinarian, you should stand?

You should stand on the same side of the horse as the veterinarian.

Why do you want to change the pressure when applying a twitch?

You want to change the pressure of an applied twitch because constant pressure will numb the horse's lip thus making the twitch ineffective.