Tranquilization or sedation is used to calm an animal under various conditions. The animal remains awake or may ‘sleep’ but is easily aroused when stimulated.
Sedation is often required for procedures such as taking radiographs where the animal needs to be calm and remain still.
Pet owners frequently request sedation for their animals during travel, thunderstorms, fireworks, etc. Sedation and tranquilization are not without risk and each animal needs to be assessed prior to dispensing these medicines.