Immobilization of giraffes with xylazine and etorphine hydrochloride.

Case 1—To facilitate examination, a 3-year-old female reticulated giraffe was given 100 mg of xylazine intramuscularly, by use of a pole syringe. Within 4 minutes the giraffe was sedated, with its head lowered and tongue protruding. Salivation was minimal. Ataxia was marked during the next 30 minutes, precluding any handling attempts. After 32 minutes the giraffe collapsed to sternal recumbency, but with its head erect and aware of its surroundings. Five minutes later the giraffe arose carefully. Ataxia continued an additional 18 minutes. Ninety minutes after initial injection, handling was attempted but the giraffe would not allow manipulation for tuberculin testing or collection of a blood sample. The giraffe was normal 2 hours after injection.