What does chemical restraint involve in animal handling?

Chemical restraint in animal handling refers to the use of sedatives, tranquilizers, or anesthetics to calm or immobilize an animal. This method is particularly useful when dealing with animals that may be aggressive, highly stressed, or in pain, making it unsafe or impossible to handle them through physical means alone. By administering chemical agents, handlers can safely manage the animal's behavior, ensuring both the safety of the handler and the well-being of the animal.

This approach allows for less invasive handling methods, reducing stress for the animal and minimizing the risk of injury to both the animal and the handler. Additionally, it enables veterinary procedures to be carried out more effectively, as a calmer animal is less likely to resist examination or treatment.