Serial chemical restraint for treatment of decubitus ulcers in two neonatal white rhinoceroses (Ceratotherium simum).

Author(s): Gandolf AR, Wolf TM, Radcliffe RW

Affiliation(s): The Wilds, 14000 International Road, Cumberland, Ohio 43701, USA.

Publication date & source: 2006-09, J Zoo Wildl Med., 37(3):387-92.

Publication type: Case Reports

Two neonatal white rhinoceroses (Ceratotherium simum) at two zoological institutions were medically managed for wounds characterized by extensive multifocal necrosis of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, associated with decubitus ulcers throughout the body. Wounds resulted from prolonged recumbency due to inability to stand in one case and causes unconfirmed in the other. Both calves were born in cement stalls during winter. Using either butorphanol (i.v. or i.m.) alone or in combination with detomidine (i.m.), serial chemical restraint was conducted over a 6-wk period to facilitate wound care. Anesthesia was well tolerated in both calves, and lesions responded well to medical treatment.