Hematologic values and blood biochemistry of anesthetized pudu (Pudu puda) in a semi-captive population

Abstract

Southern pudu (Pudu puda) is one of the smallest deer in the world, categorized as vulnerable by the IUCN. Establishment of reference values for hematologic and biochemical guidelines is fundamental for monitoring health and physiological status of animals. The aim of this study was to describe ranges for hematological and plasma biochemical guidelines in pudu. Blood samples were collected from 29 anesthetized pudus (21 female and 8 males; 5 juveniles and 24 adults) from a semi-captive population. Hematologic parameters, plasma concentrations of energy, protein and mineral guidelines, as well activity of enzymes markers of hepatic and muscular damage were determined. Mean, median, and reference interval hematologic and biochemistry guidelines were presented. No significant differences between genders for any parameter were observed, except plasma calcium concentrations. The plasma concentrations of total protein, globulin, triacylglyceride, and chlorine were higher in adult than young pudus. Values obtained in this study will be employed to build a database for establishing reference limits for this species.