The Effects of Capture, Restraint, and Transport on Hematologic, Plasma Biochemical, and Blood Gas Values in Dalmatian Pelicans ( Pelecanus crispus).

Abstract

To determine the effect of capture and restraint on hematologic, plasma biochemical, and venous blood gas values in Dalmatian pelicans ( Pelecanus crispus), blood samples were collected and temperature and heart rate were recorded in 13 pelicans (5 males and 8 females) immediately after capture from a large field exhibit. Repeat sampling was performed after transport, a mean of 74 minutes after initial evaluation. When compared with values at initial sampling to the time of capture, significant increases were documented in the heterophil : lymphocyte ratio (H : L), carbon dioxide (CO), bicarbonate (HCO), total carbon dioxide (Tco), base excess (BE), and partial pressure of carbon dioxide (Pco) values after 74 minutes. Significant decreases were documented in total protein, lactate, and phosphorus concentrations, percentage of oxygen saturation (So), partial pressure of oxygen (Po), total white blood cell count (WBC), absolute lymphocytes, absolute eosinophils, and absolute monocytes after 74 minutes. Those changes suggest capture and restraint can alter hematologic, plasma biochemical, and acid-base status in Dalmatian pelicans, which may influence clinical decision making and case management.