ABSTRACT
Caribou and reindeer should be maintained on large natural ground paddocks that are bordered by secure fences that are at least 2.5 m high to prevent escape and the entry of wild deer or predators. Rangifer species are browsers with opportunistic grazing on leafy plants and short leafy grasses, but have limited ability to digest long grass fibers rich in cellulose, such as mature timothy hay. Although serological evidence of exposure to various viral diseases, especially bovine respiratory diseases, has been documented in captive reindeer and caribou, clinical disease is rare in zoos. Best practices in husbandry are of vital importance with captive reindeer and caribou. A well-designed preventive medicine program for captive Rangifer is crucial to maintaining a healthy herd. Reindeer and caribou housed in captivity require lower doses of anesthetic drugs in comparison to their wild counterparts. Diagnostic modalities utilized in caribou and reindeer include radiography, ultrasonography and endoscopy.
