Some herding, record keeping and treatment methods used in Alaskan reindeer herds

Robert A Dieterich

doi:10.7557/2.6.2.590

Abstract

Approximately 20000 reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) in Alaska are gathered once or twice yearly to facilitate identification, serologic sampling, treatment and antler removal. Various air and land craft are used to bring the animals into a corral system from which they can be herded into a padded, pneumatically operated, squeeze apparatus. Ear tags are applied or read if already in place and ears are notched. A portable, computerized rapid data retrieval system is used to record reproductive success, vaccination and treatment status and other miscellaneous information. Ivermectin is being administered in the early winter months to treat reindeer in many herds for warbles, nasal bots and internal parasites. A killed, homologous Brucella suis type 4 vaccine is being used in two large (3500) herds. Efforts are being made to incorporate other innovative methods to improve herding and corralling methods.

Highlights

Reindeer are raised in Alaska as semi-domestic animals and are owned by private native individuals or by native corporations
It is necessary to spend a minimum amount of time handling each individual reindeer because of the large numbers of animals waiting with no food and little if any water
Reindeer handling aids Traditionally, reindeer have been herded into a large circular corral from which small groups of from 20 to 50 are placed in «pockets» which lead to a V-shaped chute system

Summary

Introduction

Reindeer are raised in Alaska as semi-domestic animals and are owned by private native individuals or by native corporations. Reindeer herders in Alaska gather their animals once or twice yearly to harvest antlers, blood test, vaccinate and identify individuals. It is necessary to spend a minimum amount of time handling each individual reindeer because of the large numbers of animals waiting with no food and little if any water. Reindeer handling aids Traditionally, reindeer have been herded into a large circular corral from which small groups of from 20 to 50 are placed in «pockets» which lead to a V-shaped chute system.

Results

Conclusion