Forensic veterinary evaluation of gunshot wounds to a dog’s head based on traditional examination methods and modern imaging techniques

Abstract

At present, the most common method of analysis of gunshot wounds is necropsy, but modern imaging methods, such as X-ray (RTG) and computed tomography (CT), are gaining in popularity. We conducted an experiment involving shooting at test material from various distances (0 m, 1.5 m, 15 m) with bullets of various calibres in order to obtain characteristic gunshot wounds and compare the utility of the traditional autopsy method and modern imaging methods for forensic veterinary purposes. Then, a digital X-ray and computed tomography scan as well as a necropsy, were performed. The analysis of the results of the experiment with ammunition of different calibres showed that damage caused by a shot from a firearm is correlated with the calibre, initial velocity and kinetic energy of the projectile, as well as the distance from the barrel end to the object being shot. In the 12 cases analysed, 80% of the bullets fired from different distances had sufficient kinetic energy to exit the test material after passing through the tissue. A macroscopic necropsy supplemented by modern imaging methods is the most accurate means of forensic veterinary analysis of gunshot wounds in animals.