During veterinary restraint, which statement is correct?

During veterinary restraint, which statement is correct?

• A. Use maximum force to immobilize the animal
• B. Restrain only after the procedure
• C. Restraint should be avoided
• D. Apply the minimum effective amount of restraint that will keep the animal and personnel safe

Answer: (D)

Restraint should be kept to the minimum level needed to keep both the animal and the people safe and to allow the procedure to be done properly. Using only the minimum effective restraint reduces stress and risk of injury for the animal and staff, helps prevent the restraint from becoming a fight, and often makes the procedure go smoother and faster because the animal isn’t fighting against excessive force. The other ideas don’t fit because maximum force can cause pain and fear, escalating the situation; restraining only after the procedure defeats safety during the procedure; and avoiding restraint altogether isn’t practical when safety and control are required.

Restraint should be kept to the minimum level needed to keep both the animal and the people safe and to allow the procedure to be done properly. Using only the minimum effective restraint reduces stress and risk of injury for the animal and staff, helps prevent the restraint from becoming a fight, and often makes the procedure go smoother and faster because the animal isn’t fighting against excessive force. The other ideas don’t fit because maximum force can cause pain and fear, escalating the situation; restraining only after the procedure defeats safety during the procedure; and avoiding restraint altogether isn’t practical when safety and control are required.