Immobilization of arctic foxes with tiletamine hydrochloride and zolazepam hydrochloride (Zoletil®)

We used Zoletil((R)) (also known as Telazol((R))) to immobilize 19 adult arctic foxes (Alopex lagopus) under field conditions at Karrak Lake, Nunavut, Canada. A single dose of 15 mg provided safe handling for approximately 15 min regardless of sex and body mass. Mean induction time was 2.4 min, and foxes showed first awakening behavior, first stand-up attempt, and complete recovery at mean intervals of 13.5, 22.8, and 39.3 min after injection, respectively. Anesthetic depth was suitable for safe handling and minor clinical procedures such as ear-tagging and venipuncture. All breeding females immobilized with Zoletil (n = 3) weaned litters. Immobilization was characterized by quick induction, safe handling, and predictable recovery; therefore, we recommend Zoletil (or Telazol) for immobilizing adult arctic foxes in the field.