What should a veterinary technician prioritize when handling an aggressive animal?

Prioritizing safety is crucial when handling an aggressive animal, and seeking assistance is an essential step in ensuring that both the technician and the animal are protected from harm. Aggressive animals can pose significant risks, and having additional personnel allows for better management of the situation. This can include helping to physically restrain the animal if necessary or providing support in assessing the animal's behavior.

In potentially dangerous situations, having a team approach often leads to better outcomes, as more experienced personnel can provide guidance or take on roles that reduce stress for the animal. Attention to safety helps prevent injury and facilitates a calmer environment, which is beneficial for both the animal and the handlers.

While minimal interaction to calm the animal and using verbal commands may seem like good practices, these are not the first priorities in a situation where aggression is present and safety is at risk. Similarly, directly restraining the animal without help can be highly dangerous and is not advisable.