ANESTHESIA AND USE OF A SLING SYSTEM TO FACILITATE TRANSVAGINAL LAPAROSCOPY IN A BLACK RHINOCEROS (DICEROS BICORNIS MINOR)

Transvaginal laparoscopy to allow assessment of ovarian pathology and to attempt retrieval of oocytes was facilitated in a captive, female black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis minor) through the use of a sling on two separate occasions. Following induction of anesthesia with an opioid-based combination, the rhinoceros was intubated and maintained on isoflurane in oxygen. The use of the sling and volume controlled inhalation anesthesia allowed for maintenance of appropriate anatomic positioning, analgesia, and insufflation of the abdominal cavity for laparoscopy during both procedures.