Procedure for cutting antlers in velvet

I use souture thread, and tie off the horn below where your gonna cut it. Once off plug off the veins that are squirting with tooth picks. Then put blood clot and pine tar on it. I give fluids this time of year because of heat and stress. Also use BAM if available, not near as hard on them.

Daniel,



Just tried to reach you via phone. We cut Texas Tea 2 nights ago... I would be happy to help you any way I can. Give me a call when you have a moment.



Mike

Hollowroad Whitetails said:

Hello Everyone:



I have a breeder named Wideout who damaged his antler early in the spring. Due to the imbalance of weight on his head as a result of the difference between the good and damaged side, I have to cut his antlers. I need advice on how to perform this procedure. Wideout is an amazing deer, in antler, body and personality. He is very important to me and I want to make sure that I have all the knowledge I need to perform this procedure safely.



Any advice would be greatly appreciated.



Thank you!

Click to expand...

When removing growing antler like this, its important to remember you are cutting through major blood vessels,even with a tourniquett there will be arterial blood spray.

Down here only vets, or those who are qualified can perform this type of surgery.

It is generally done in a crush & dark room,using low doses of xylazine to calm the deer.

A "ring block" is also used.This is when several injections of local anesthetic is used around the base of the pedicle (20mg/ml lignocaine).

Leave behind 3/4 of an inch above the coronet (a button).

The deer are generally left in a darkened yard till the blood stops & they are ready to return to the paddock.Remember there will be regrowth & you may need to cut it again.



Use a vet,its time & money well spent & discuss the doses with them.



Cheers Sharkey