Ketamine hydrochloride (KH) and xylazine hydrochloride (XH) used in combination (KH-XH) were effective immobilants for captive and wild black bears (Ursus americanus). Single intramuscular injections of 1.5-17.1 mg of KH per kg body weight combined in an approximate ratio of 2:1 with 0.9-10.0 mg of XH per kg body weight immobilized bears for 1.5-197 min. Dosages most frequently used were 4.5-9 mg KH/kg with 2-4.5 mg XH kg. Supplemental administrations maintained tractability for up to 31 h. Immobilization was characterized by smooth induction, relaxed muscles, occasional groaning and vomition, no eye closure, no defecation, and a smooth recovery phase of variable length. Male and female bears responded similarly to KH-XH. Induction times for small bears (less than or equal to 25 kg) were shorter than for larger bears.

This article has been cited by other articles:

				L. L. Wolfe, C. T. Goshorn, and S. Baruch-Mordo Immobilization of Black Bears (Ursus americanus) with a Combination of Butorphanol, Azaperone, and Medetomidine J. Wildl. Dis., July 1, 2008; 44(3): 748 - 752. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]