Oiled Sea Otter Capture Course

Summary

Sea otters can be safely handled if proper physical and chemical restraint are used. The best method for physically restraining an otter is the squeeze box. The preferred method of safe chemical restraint is a combination of fentanyl, acepromazine, and diazepam. Naloxone should be used to reverse the anesthetic effect of fentanyl. These drugs are dangerous to humans and should be handled only by veterinarians and animal care specialists. To reduce physiological and behavioral stress to the otter, the period of restraint should be minimized. The type and duration of restraint will depend on the health of the otter and the purpose for handling.