Evaluation of the sedative effects of dexmedetomidine alone or in combination with midazolam in pixarros (Saltator similis)

• Grant number: 20/05996-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: October 01, 2020
• End date: July 31, 2021
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Veterinary Medicine - Animal Clinics and Surgery
• Principal Investigator: Silvia Renata Gaido Cortopassi
• Grantee: Fabíola Bernardes Boldrin
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia (FMVZ). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The pixarros (Saltator similis), also known as "true iron trinches", are species of birds of the Order Passeriformes known for their melodious song, which makes them of great value among bird breeders. Thus, they are important victims of the illegal trade, which impacts the maintenance of their populations in nature. After apprehension by the competent bodies, the animals tend to be taken to Wild Animal Screening Centers (CETAS), where they frequently need outpatient care due to trauma and fractures. The clinical management of birds is largely benefited by chemical restraint, which reduces animal stress and facilitates diagnostic and therapeutic tests. In this context, the present study aims to compare the sedative effects of dexmedetomidine alone or in combination with midazolam in the chemical containment of 10 specimens of Saltatos similis. The animals will come from CETAS in Barueri - São Paulo, and will be submitted to two anesthetic protocols in a crossover design, with a 15-day interval between them. The quality of sedation and anesthetic recovery will be evaluated, as well as heart and respiratory rates, cloacal temperature and blood pressure.