Field anesthesia in Caspian pony

This study was conducted to evaluate some of the clinical parameters following field anesthesia in Caspian ponies. Twelve healthy Caspian ponies of both sexes was contributed in this study. The ponies were premedicated with Xylazine (2 mg/kg). The study was continued in five groups including: Propofol (group1), Acepromazine- Ketamine (group 2), Diazepam-Ketamine (group 3), Midazolam-Ketamine (group 4) and Sodium thiopental 5% (group 5). The drug or combinations were administered 10 minutes after sedation. Heart and respiratory rate, induction time, duration of surgical anesthesia, recovery time and standing time were measured. Considerable sedation without excitement was achieved following premedication. The results revealed presence of significant difference (P≥0.05) in the induction time, and standing time between propofol and other protocols. In comparison to other groups, heart rate significantly increased in group 1. In group 1 and 5 respiratory rate decreased relationship to others. It was found that 2, 3 and 4 groups provided stress- free induction, easily controlled anesthesia, good analgesia and muscle relaxation. According to the results of this study, suitable surgical anesthesia was obtained in Ketamine combinations. It is recommended that Propofol and Sodium thiopental are used for light anesthesia. Considering the results of the present study, these protocols are recommended for field anesthesia in Caspian pony.