Squamates (Snakes and Lizards)

Tachycardia in response to remote capsaicin injection as a model for nociception in the ball python (Python regius)

“…Given the changes to HR, and the apparent lack of analgesia of the doses used in this study, further work is required to elucidate whether an effective dose of either μ or mixed opioid agonists can be identified in snakes. Potential avenues would be to explore the effects of different dosages of morphine and butorphanol to reveal whether the thresholds for heart rate effects and any analgesic effect differ, and to study drugs, such as the μ‐agonist tramadol, that also act via non opiate pathways (e.g., Baker et al 2011 in Bertelsen ). The evolution of limblessness and potential spinal changes have been proposed as potential causes of different opioid sensitivity in snakes (Sladky ), but a thorough investigation of snake’s central nervous system opioid receptors is required.…”

“…Remote observation will be particularly important in integrating behavioural parameters into this model. The induction of small squamates using chambers or bags rather than by mask with the aim of reducing both the stress imposed by handling and environmental isoflurane contamination has been previously recommended (Bertelsen ). Vaporizer‐controlled induction chamber isoflurane concentration would improve precision, but might be expected to increase induction times.…”

Intramuscular administration of alfaxalone in red-eared sliders (Trachemys scripta elegans) – effects of dose and body temperature

“…However, the temperature had profound effects on both duration and level of anaesthesia. It is generally recommended that reptiles be maintained at or near their preferred body temperature (PBT) during anaesthesia and recovery (Mosley 2005; Bertelsen 2007) to maintain optimal immune response and metabolic rate. When reptiles have been anaesthetized at temperatures below their PBT, they have appeared more deeply sedated (Cooper 1974), the duration of both anaesthesia and recovery have been prolonged and smaller dosages of anaesthetic have been required to produce sedation and anaesthesia (Arena et al.…”

A review of diagnostic imaging of snakes and lizards

“…Some excellent references regarding anaesthetic protocols used in snakes and lizards are available (Schumacher and Yelen 2005, Bertelsen 2007). …”