[The immobilization of giraffes]

The anatomical and physiological conditions of blood circulation in the giraffe are pointed out. 16 immobilizations in the giraffe of either sex are reported, of which 10 were immobilized according to the following scheme. 1. Premedication: 30 mg Xylazine 150 mg Hyaluronidase 2. 15 minutes later a halter with two long ropes is put on to hold up the animals' heads after they lay down. 3. 20 minutes after premedication the injection of 5.6-6.0 mg Etorphine (2.5-2.7 ml Immobilon) together with 150 I.U. Hyaluronidase follows. 4. We think that the most important fact is to hold the animals head and neck in an upright position during the whole time of immobilization. 5. Within 3 to 5 minutes after the intravenous application of 15 mg Diprenorphine (5.0 ml Revivon) the animals raise without any problems.