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Schaffer, N.E.; Beehler, B.A., 1988. Overview of procedures and results of semen collection from ambulatory rhinoceroses. Proceedings of the AAZPA Annual Conference 1988: 273-279, tables 1-5

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Location: Captive
Subject: Management
Species: All Rhino Species


Original text on this topic:
Chutes used for restraint in sperm collection. Equipment manipulations and personnel protection is facilitated by restraining rhinoceroses in chutes. During procedures at zoos, observations were made on the effectiveness of current chute systems in restraining rhinoceroses.
Chutes should be strong enough to bear the weight plus the force of the rhinoceros. Six- to eight-inch pipes embedded in the ground have restricted these animals. Four-inch pipe has been used but it must be reenforced and firmly anchored.
Some of these structures were built with dead-ends, which some rhinoceroses have been reluctant to enter. Rhinoceroses become more rapidly accustomed to chutes that they pass through every day. These chutes are more convenient for personnel. Rhinoceroses loaded in chutes have become accustomed to the close quarters. However, apprehension in some individuals has caused them to either mount the chute or lie down. These movements can cause injury to the rhinoceros or personnel. To prevent mounting, the chute should be higher than the length of the animal and lack places to leverage the front foot or head. High vertical bars have best resolved this problem. Vertical bars also prevent personnel from becoming wedged if the animal sits down. However both vertical bars and horizontal bars will trap personnel, it movement of the animal is extensive within the chute. Tight-fitting chutes have stabilized rhinoceroses and allowed more technical manipulations with the animal. Procedures are also facilitated if the lower part of the chute on either side of the rear of the animal can be opened. This allows better maneuverability of different equipment. Different equipment and a greater variety of procedures are applicable on rhinoceroses restrained in chutes.

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