ABSTRACT
Euthanasia techniques which result in rapid loss of consciousness with minimal stress or anxiety and are followed by cardiac and respiratory arrest and cessation of brain function are considered humane euthanasia methods. Euthanasia methods are classified as physical techniques, chemical agents or inhaled gases. Exsaguination is an acceptable method of euthanasia in most species only if done in an unconscious or anesthetized animal. In order to avoid artifacts caused by autolysis, a necropsy should be done immediately after the animal has died. If it is necessary to collect synovial fluid at the time of necropsy for examining cellular or biochemical components, it should be done first so as not to contaminate the skin with intestinal contents etc. Wherever possible, serologic monitoring should be combined with necropsy of sentinel animals and examination for ecto- and endoparasites. Ideally, one should try to get needed cultures before the necropsy begins to prevent contamination of the skin lesion or before opening any internal organs.
