Quantification of the response of elk during velvet antler removal

A system was developed to physically measure the escape response of elk dur ing velvet antler removal. This response was to be used as an indirect meas ure of the pain the animal may have experienced. Two load cells and a triax ial accelerometer were used in conjunction with data acquisition equipment to record the response of animals during different segments of the procedur e. The load cells measured the tension in two ropes used to restrain the an imal's head, and the accelerometer recorded any motion of the animal's head . Rope tension accurately indicated the elks' responses, but the accelerome ter did not provide any additional information. Other potential improvement s to the system were also noted.