Elephants Elephants - Wildpro - Twycross Zoo

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Electrocardiography (ECG) can be performed in elephants and best results are
achieved using needle electrodes. A detailed description of the technique and
interpretation of results is given in (Mikota et al 1994pp108-109 and 113-114)
Faecal examinations. Annual faecal parasite screens are recommended as a
minimum, and should include direct, floatation and sedimentation
techniques. More frequent examinations will be necessary where a particular
problem exists locally. Faecal bacteriology screens should also be carried out
at regular intervals with particular attention being paid to culture for
Salmonella spp. As Salmonella can be shed intermittently, culture from 3-5
samples taken on consecutive or alternate days is advised.
Radiography. Elephant calves can be radiographed as for horses, but it is
only practical at present to radiograph the extremities of adult elephants.
Suitable exposure factors and details of positioning are given in (Schmidt
1986; Gage 1999).
Temperature taking. Rectal or fresh faecal bolus temperatures can be used
although comparison between individuals is advised.
Thermal Imaging. Thermal imaging (or infrared thermography) offers great
diagnostic possibilities in elephants as no immobilization or animal contact is
required.
Transponders. These should be fitted subcutaneously (intramuscularly)
behind the left ear.
Euthanasia.
Due to the obvious dangers of using a free bullet in captive situations it is
advised that elephants are destroyed by heavy sedation or anaesthesia
followed by the intravenous administration of a lethal agent such as
potassium chloride or pentobarbitone.
Hygiene
It is very important that rigorous hygiene measures are employed in elephant
facilities to discourage vermin which may carry viruses (such as the
encephalomyocarditis virus) and pathogenic bacteria to which elephants are
susceptible. Keeping staff should pay particular attention to the regular
removal of faeces and uneaten food items. Keeping staff should also be aware
that elephants can carry micro-organisms that cause zoonotic infections and
therefore a high standard of personal hygiene is required.
Post Mortem Protocol
The full post mortem examination of an elephant is a huge undertaking
requiring organisation, appropriate equipment and planning. A
comprehensive protocol is available (AZA and Elephant Research Foundation
2000). Topics included are an equipment checklist, logistics, gross
examination worksheet, tissue check list, a selected bibliography and lists of
research requests. British and Irish veterinarians faced with undertaking an
elephant post mortem examination are advised to follow these guidelines and
protocol.