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Evaluation of ballistics euthanasia applied to stranded cetaceans using ethological and post-mortem computed
Rebecca M Boys1, Brian C W Kot2, Gordon Lye3
1Cetacean Ecology Research Group, College of Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 102-904, Auckland, New Zealand. r.boys@massey.ac.nz.
Veterinary Research Communications
|September 17, 2024
Summary
Ballistics can provide rapid euthanasia for stranded cetaceans, but projectile choice impacts welfare. Immediate assessment of insensibility is crucial for humane death, requiring further research into optimal methods.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Marine Biology
- Animal Welfare Science
Background:
- Debilitated stranded cetaceans often require euthanasia to prevent suffering.
- Ballistics are used for euthanasia, aiming for instantaneous insensibility via brainstem disruption.
- Limited data exists on the welfare outcomes of ballistic euthanasia in cetaceans.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of ballistic euthanasia in young stranded cetaceans.
- To assess immediate behavioral and post-mortem cranial responses to different projectile types.
- To determine if humane death was achieved using ballistic methods.
Main Methods:
- Opportunistic examination of three maternally-dependent cetaceans euthanized by ballistics.
- Observation of animal behavior post-shooting.
- Post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) to analyze cranial disruption.
- Comparison of three projectile types: soft non-bonded, solid, and soft bonded.
Main Results:
- All animals exhibited musculoskeletal responses post-shooting, with relaxation occurring between 10.3 and 24 seconds.
- One animal showed agonal convulsions and tail-lifting with a soft non-bonded projectile.
- PMCT indicated brainstem/spinal cord disruption, likely causing rapid insensibility.
- Extra-cranial wounding was noted with the soft non-bonded projectile.
Conclusions:
- Ballistics can achieve rapid death in young stranded cetaceans, but projectile selection is critical.
- Immediate verification of insensibility post-shooting is essential for humane euthanasia.
- Further research is needed to refine ballistic euthanasia procedures and equipment for compromised cetaceans.
