Which method of animal restraint is commonly used in veterinary medicine?

Chemical sedation is a commonly used method of animal restraint in veterinary medicine because it allows for a controlled and safe way to manage an animal's behavior during examinations, treatments, or surgical procedures. This method involves administering sedatives or anesthetics to reduce anxiety and movement, which can be particularly beneficial for aggressive or frightened animals. The use of chemical sedation helps minimize stress for both the animal and the veterinary staff, facilitating safer handling and more thorough examinations or surgeries.

While physical holds and vocal commands are certainly utilized in practice, they depend heavily on the animal's temperament and can be unpredictable, particularly with nervous or aggressive animals. Positive reinforcement is beneficial for training and behavior modification but may not be effective in a high-stress or medical situation where immediate restraint is necessary. Thus, chemical sedation is preferred for its effectiveness and safety in situations demanding restraint.