Abstract

This study investigated the effects of physical and chemical restraint on the haematological and physiological parameters of Nigerian Indigenous Dogs (NIDs) during abdominal ultrasonography. The aim was to evaluate how commonly used restraint methods (physical restraint and chemical sedation with acepromazine or xylazine) impact vital signs and blood profiles, with the goal of optimizing animal handling practices in Veterinary Medicine diagnosis. Twenty NIDs (10 males and 10 females) aged 1–3 years were used in the study. The dogs were divided into groups based on sex and restraint method (physical restraint, acepromazine at 0.01mg/kg, and xylazine at 1mg/kg. Baseline (control) readings were also obtained. The Haematological parameters measured included RBC, WBC, Hb, HCT, MCV, MCH, MCHC, and platelet counts. Vital signs assessed included temperature, pulse rate, and respiratory rate. All dogs underwent abdominal ultrasonography of the liver, kidney, and spleen using a 7.5MHz ultrasound probe. The results showed no significant sex-based differences in haematological parameters across groups. However, chemical restraint (particularly with acepromazine) caused a significant reduction in pulse rate and respiratory rate compared to physical restraint and control. Female dogs under chemical restraint exhibited notably reduced RBC, Hb, and MCHC, while MCV increased, especially with acepromazine. In males, MCV was also significantly higher with acepromazine than with xylazine or physical restraint. Leukocyte counts (WBC, granulocytes, lymphocytes, monocytes) generally did not differ significantly across restraint types, though granulocyte and lymphocyte differences were observed between sexes under control conditions. The study concluded that both physical and chemical restraint methods had minimal effects on the haematological parameters of NIDs. However, chemical restraint significantly influenced vital parameters, especially Cardiovascular and Respiratory rates. The findings support the careful selection of restraint methods, considering their physiological impact. It is recommended that further research explore alternative sedatives with even less haematological interference, and that owners participate in restraining their dogs during examinations to reduce stress.

Key words: Nigerian Indigenous Dog, Haematological Indices, Abdominal Ultrasonography, Physical Restraint, Chemical Restraint