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Sundman ER, Dewell GA, Dewell RD, Johnson AK, Thomson DU, Millman ST. The welfare of ill and injured feedlot cattle: a review of the literature and implications for managing feedlot hospital and chronic pens. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1398116. [PMID: 38799724 PMCID: PMC11117431 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1398116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
By definition, ill and injured animals are on the negative valence of animal welfare. For beef cattle kept in feedlot settings, advances in cattle health management have resulted in a greater understanding and prevention of illness and injury. However, the management of cattle once they become ill and injured is an understudied area, and there are gaps in knowledge that could inform evidence-based decision-making and strengthen welfare for this population. The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the acquired knowledge regarding ill and injured feedlot cattle welfare, focusing on existing knowledge gaps and implications for hospital and chronic pen management and welfare assurance. Ill and injured feedlot cattle consist of acutely impaired animals with short-term health conditions that resolve with treatment and chronically impaired animals with long-term health conditions that may be difficult to treat. A literature search identified 110 articles that mentioned welfare and ill and injured feedlot cattle, but the population of interest in most of these articles was healthy cattle, not ill and injured cattle. Articles about managing ill and injured cattle in specialized hospital (n = 12) or chronic (n = 2) pens were even more sparse. Results from this literature search will be used to outline the understanding of acutely and chronically ill and injured feedlot cattle, including common dispositions and welfare considerations, behavior during convalescence, and strategies for identifying and managing ill and injured cattle. Finally, by working through specific ailments common in commercial feedlot environments, we illustrate how the Five Domains Model can be used to explore feelings and experiences and subsequent welfare state of individual ill or injured feedlot cattle. Using this approach and our knowledge of current industry practices, we identify relevant animal-based outcomes and critical research questions to strengthen knowledge in this area. A better understanding of this overlooked topic will inform future research and the development of evidence-based guidelines to help producers care for this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emiline R. Sundman
- Department of Veterinary Diagnostic and Production Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Grant A. Dewell
- Department of Veterinary Diagnostic and Production Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Renee D. Dewell
- Center for Food Security and Public Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Anna K. Johnson
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Daniel U. Thomson
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Suzanne T. Millman
- Department of Veterinary Diagnostic and Production Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
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Harvey AM, Beausoleil NJ, Ramp D, Mellor DJ. Mental Experiences in Wild Animals: Scientifically Validating Measurable Welfare Indicators in Free-Roaming Horses. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13091507. [PMID: 37174544 PMCID: PMC10177449 DOI: 10.3390/ani13091507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The mental experiences of animals are what characterises their welfare status. The Five Domains Model for assessing welfare aligns with the understanding that physical and mental states are linked. Following measurement of indicators within each of the four physical/functional Domains (1. Nutrition; 2. Physical environment; 3. Health; and 4. Behavioural interactions), the anticipated negative or positive affective consequences (mental experiences) are cautiously inferred and assigned to Domain 5. Those inferences derive credibility from validated knowledge of the underlying systems of physiology, neurophysiology, neuroethology and affective neuroscience. Any indicators used for assessing welfare need to be scientifically validated. This requires, firstly, evidence of the links between a measurable/observable indicator and the physical/functional impact (in Domains 1 to 4), and secondly, a demonstrable relationship between the physical/functional impact and the mental experience it is inferred the indicators reflect (in Domain five). This review refers to indicators of physical/functional states in Domains 1 to 4, which have been shown to be measurable in free-roaming wild horses, and then evaluates the scientific evidence linking them to inferred mental experiences in Domain 5. This is the first time that the scientific evidence validating a comprehensive range of welfare indicators has been synthesised in this way. Inserting these indicators into the Five Domains Model enables transparently justifiable assessment and grading of welfare status in free-roaming horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea M Harvey
- Centre for Compassionate Conservation, TD School, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Ngaio J Beausoleil
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| | - Daniel Ramp
- Centre for Compassionate Conservation, TD School, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - David J Mellor
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
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3
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Clarkson JM, Martin JE, Sparrey J, Leach MC, McKeegan DEF. Striving for humane deaths for laboratory mice: hypobaric hypoxia provides a potential alternative to carbon dioxide exposure. Proc Biol Sci 2023; 290:20222446. [PMID: 37122253 PMCID: PMC10130715 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2022.2446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Killing is often an unavoidable and necessary procedure for laboratory mice involved in scientific research, and providing a humane death is vital for public acceptance. Exposure to carbon dioxide (CO2) gas is the most widely used methodology despite well proven welfare concerns. Consequently, the continued use of CO2 and its globally permitted status in legislation and guidelines presents an ethical dilemma for users. We investigated whether killing with hypobaric hypoxia via gradual decompression was associated with better welfare outcomes for killing laboratory mice. We compared the spontaneous behaviour of mice exposed to CO2, decompression or sham conditions, and used analgesic or anxiolytic interventions to determine their relative welfare impact. Gradual decompression resulted in longer times to unconsciousness and death and the pharmacological interventions support the notion of a minimally negative animal experience, while providing further evidence for pain and anxiety associated with exposure to CO2. Decompression resulted in moderate ear haemorrhage, but our welfare assessment suggests this may happen when mice are unconscious. Hence, gradual decompression could be the basis of significant refinement for killing laboratory mice. Future work should corroborate behaviour with neurobiological markers of loss of consciousness to verify the conscious phase of concern for animal welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Clarkson
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- School for Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - J E Martin
- School for Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - J Sparrey
- Livetec Systems Ltd, Wrest Park, Silsoe, Bedford, UK
| | - M C Leach
- Comparative Biology Centre, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - D E F McKeegan
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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Clarkson JM, Leach MC, McKeegan DEF, Martin JE. The perspectives of UK personnel towards current killing practices for laboratory rodents. Sci Rep 2023; 13:4808. [PMID: 36959244 PMCID: PMC10036518 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-31808-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Rodents are the predominant species used for scientific research and must be humanely killed upon completion of the work. In the UK this is regulated by Schedule 1 of the Animals Scientific Procedures Act 1986, which lists permitted methodologies considered capable of humane killing, including overdose of an anaesthetic, exposure to carbon dioxide (CO2) gas, dislocation of the neck and concussion of the brain by striking the cranium. Although all are permitted, operator motivations behind method selection and individual operator preference remain unknown. The views of 219 laboratory animal personnel on institutional availability and use of Schedule 1 killing methods for laboratory rodents were obtained. Only 10% of participants reported that all four methods were available at their institution with 57.5% of respondents preferring cervical dislocation. For CO2, only 18.6% of participants reported using the recommended flow rate, while 45.5% did not know the flow rate employed. We highlight the urgent requirement for the development of quality-controlled training programmes, to improve knowledge and confidence in the selection and application of killing methods. We advocate for continuous review of killing practices to ensure best practice is reflected in legislation and achieve optimal protection of the welfare of laboratory rodents during killing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmine M Clarkson
- Institute of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland.
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, England.
| | - Matthew C Leach
- Comparative Biology Centre, School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, England
| | - Dorothy E F McKeegan
- Institute of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland
| | - Jessica E Martin
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, England
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and The Roslin Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland
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5
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Bell DJ, Vigors B, Duthie CA, Bartram DJ, Hancock A, Odeyemi I, Penny C, Haskell MJ. Developing a tool to assess the health-related quality of life in calves with respiratory disease: content validation. Animal 2023; 17:100702. [PMID: 36680850 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2022.100702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is a major welfare and productivity issue for calves. Despite the extensive negative impacts on calf welfare and performance, BRD remains challenging to detect and treat effectively. However, the clinical signs of disease are only one aspect of the disease that is experienced by the individual. The assessment of emotional experience in animals is not straightforward, but it is increasingly recognised that the quality of behaviour and demeanour of an individual is a reflection of their internal emotional state. The aim of the present study was to complete the content validation stage of the development process for a health-related quality of life (HRQOL) tool. This was based around indicators from an existing conceptual framework containing twenty-three indicators in two domains (clinical signs and behavioural expression). The content validation stage involves engaging with key stakeholders. For this study, this took the form of a survey and discussions with focus groups, which are standard methods in this field. A survey and stakeholder focus groups were conducted to assess the usefulness of each indicator and its relevance for inclusion within a HRQOL tool. In the survey, participants were asked to rate the usefulness of each of the indicators using a 4-point scale which were then dichotomised into 'useful' and 'less useful'. Based on the 'useful' result, each indicator within the domains was ranked. A similar approach was taken with the responses from the focus groups. Focus group participants were asked to select indicators that they felt were of use and the result of this was used to rank each of the indicators. The ranks of the indicators from both the survey and the focus groups along with the transcripts from the focus groups were used to determine the indicators from each domain to include within the HRQOL tool. Indicators within the clinical signs domain that were included were nasal discharge, cough, respiratory effort, ocular appearance (discharge and vibrancy), body and head posture and ear carriage. For the domain of behavioural expression, the indicators included were movement to feed, responsiveness, spatial proximity, volume of feed intake, motivation at feed and vigour. The next stage will be to validate the construction of the HRQOL tool through its use in practice. The inclusion of indicators that allow the experiential aspects of disease to be recorded in health assessments will likely increase the ability of farmers and others to detect respiratory disease in calves.
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Affiliation(s)
- D J Bell
- SRUC (Scotland's Rural College), West Mains, Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, United Kingdom.
| | - B Vigors
- SRUC (Scotland's Rural College), West Mains, Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, United Kingdom
| | - C-A Duthie
- SRUC (Scotland's Rural College), West Mains, Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, United Kingdom
| | - D J Bartram
- Outcomes Research, Zoetis, Loughlinstown, County Dublin D18 T3Y1, Ireland
| | - A Hancock
- Outcomes Research, Zoetis, Loughlinstown, County Dublin D18 T3Y1, Ireland
| | - I Odeyemi
- Outcomes Research, Zoetis, Loughlinstown, County Dublin D18 T3Y1, Ireland
| | - C Penny
- Zoetis UK Ltd., First Floor, Birchwood Building, Springfield Drive, Leatherhead KT22 7LP, United Kingdom
| | - M J Haskell
- SRUC (Scotland's Rural College), West Mains, Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, United Kingdom
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The Rise of Heatstroke as a Method of Depopulating Pigs and Poultry: Implications for the US Veterinary Profession. Animals (Basel) 2022; 13:ani13010140. [PMID: 36611748 PMCID: PMC9817707 DOI: 10.3390/ani13010140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Depopulation of food-producing animals is becoming increasingly common in response to both disease outbreaks and supply chain disruptions. In 2019, the American Veterinary Medical Association released depopulation guidelines classifying certain heatstroke-based killing methods as "permitted in constrained circumstances", when circumstances of the emergency constrain reasonable implementation of "preferred" methods. Since then, tens of millions of birds and pigs have been killed by such methods, termed ventilation shutdown (VSD) Plus Heat and VSD Plus High Temperature and Humidity. While no research using validated measures of animal welfare assessment has been performed on these methods, their pathophysiology suggests that animals are likely to experience pain, anxiety, nausea, and heat distress prior to loss of consciousness. Heatstroke-based methods may result in prolonged suffering and often do not achieve 100% mortality. Potential and available alternative depopulation methods are briefly reviewed. The veterinary profession's ethical obligation to protect animal welfare in the context of depopulations is discussed.
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Prihirunkit K. Postmortem radiological imaging and autopsy of a manually strangled dog with a neck twist. FORENSIC IMAGING 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fri.2022.200519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Martin JE, Baxter EM, Clarkson JM, Farish M, Clutton RE, Greenhalgh SN, Gregson R, McKeegan DEF. Characterizing candidate decompression rates for hypobaric hypoxic stunning of pigs. Part 1: Reflexive behavior and physiological responses. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:1027878. [DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.1027878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Alternatives to carbon dioxide (CO2) stunning for the commercial slaughter of pigs are urgently needed because there is robust evidence that exposing pigs to hypercapnic environments is associated with pain, fear, and distress. Hypobaric hypoxia (via gradual decompression, also known as Low Atmospheric Pressure Stunning or LAPS) has been validated in poultry as a humane option, but its potential to improve the welfare of pigs at slaughter is unknown. We investigated the potential of hypobaric hypoxia to reliably elicit a non-recovery state in anesthetized weaner-grower pigs within a commercially viable timeframe. We determined the effect of candidate decompression rates (40, 60, 80, 100 ms−1, at two cycle durations 480 s and 720 s) on a range of physiological and reflexive behavioral indicators of hypoxia and death. We found that the decompression rates tested caused a 100% death rate. As expected, the decompression rate had overarching effects on behavioral and physiological markers of hypoxia and death, with faster decompression rates resulting in shorter latencies to cardiac arrest and cessation of breathing. We observed a higher proportion of pigs displaying repeated and prolonged whole-body movements (likely indicative of convulsive activity) at higher frequencies when we applied the slowest decompression rate (40 ms−1) compared to all other rates. Since these responses may impact the carcass and meat quality, the slower rate of decompression (40 ms−1) should be excluded as a candidate decompression rate. Furthermore, given the marginal effects of decompression rate on physiological indicators of death and reflexive behavioral parameters, we also recommend that the fastest rate tested (100 ms−1) is excluded in further study on conscious pigs (to prevent conscious animals from being exposed to unnecessary faster decompression rates which may compromise animal welfare). This work represents a necessary proof of principle step and confirms the potential of gradual decompression for stunning purposes in pigs. Importantly, however, the data presented provide no information on the welfare outcomes associated with decompression in conscious pigs. Subsequent work should focus on the comprehensive welfare assessment of intermediate decompression rates to determine the potential of hypobaric hypoxia to provide a humane stunning method for pigs.
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Baxter EM, McKeegan DEF, Farish M, Thomson JR, Clutton RE, Greenhalgh SN, Gregson R, Martin JE. Characterizing candidate decompression rates for hypobaric hypoxic stunning of pigs. Part 2: Pathological consequences. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:1027883. [PMID: 36439339 PMCID: PMC9681787 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.1027883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Pigs are commonly stunned pre-slaughter by exposure to carbon dioxide (CO2), but this approach is associated with significant welfare concerns. Hypobaric hypoxia, achieved with gradual decompression (also known as Low Atmospheric Pressure Stunning or LAPS) may be an alternative, allowing the retention of welfare friendly handling approaches and group stunning. Although validated in poultry, the feasibility and welfare consequences of gradual decompression for pigs are unknown. Here, we characterize pathological changes in 60 pigs resulting from exposure to a range of candidate decompression curves (ranging from 40 to 100 ms−1 ascent equivalent, with two cycle durations 480 and 720 s). To protect welfare, we worked on unconscious, terminally anesthetized pigs which were subject to detailed post-mortem examinations by a specialized porcine veterinary pathologist. All pigs were killed as a result of exposure to decompression, irrespective of cycle rate or length. Pigs showed no external injuries during ante-mortem inspections. Exposing pigs to decompression and the unavoidable subsequent recompression resulted in generalized congestion of the carcass, organs and body cavities including the ears, oral cavity, conjunctivae and sclera, mucosa of other external orifices (anus and vulva), nasal planum, nasal cavities including nasal conchae, frontal sinuses, cranium, meninges, brain, larynx, trachea, lungs, heart, parietal pleura of the thoracic cavity, peritoneum of the abdominal cavity, stomach, small intestine, caecum, colon, liver, spleen and kidneys and representative joint cavities in the limbs (stifles and elbows). Various severities of hemorrhage were observed in the conjunctivae and sclera, mucosa of other external orifices (anus and vulva), nasal cavities including nasal conchae, frontal sinuses, cranium, meninges, brain, larynx, tracheal lumen, lungs, parietal pleura of the thoracic cavity, liver, spleen and kidneys and representative joint cavities in the limbs (stifles and elbows). In general, faster decompression rates produced higher scores, but in the conjunctivae, sclera and kidneys, faster decompression rates were associated with marginally lower congestion scores. There was considerable individual variation in pathological scores across all body regions. The congestion and hemorrhage observed could translate into welfare harms in conscious pigs undergoing this type of stunning, depending when in the cycle the damage is occurring, but no welfare related conclusions can be drawn from the responses of unconscious pigs. Since recompression is always required, its effects cannot be separated from decompression, however cessation of cardiac activity several minutes before recompression should have eliminated any haemodynamic effects relating to cardiac function and blood pressure. This study represents the first systematic attempt to identify candidate rate profiles to underpin future explorations of decompression as a stunning method for pigs. These pathological findings also inform discussions about the likely carcass quality implications of this novel stunning method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma M. Baxter
- Animal and Veterinary Sciences Research Group, Scotland's Rural College (SRUC), Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Dorothy E. F. McKeegan
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Marianne Farish
- Animal and Veterinary Sciences Research Group, Scotland's Rural College (SRUC), Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Jill R. Thomson
- Animal and Veterinary Sciences Research Group, Scotland's Rural College (SRUC), Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Richard E. Clutton
- The Wellcome Trust Critical Care Laboratory for Large Animals LARIF, The Roslin Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen N. Greenhalgh
- The Wellcome Trust Critical Care Laboratory for Large Animals LARIF, The Roslin Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Rachael Gregson
- The Wellcome Trust Critical Care Laboratory for Large Animals LARIF, The Roslin Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Jessica E. Martin
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and The Roslin Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Jessica E. Martin
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Animal Welfare Compromises Associated with Causes of Death in Neonatal Piglets. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12212933. [PMID: 36359057 PMCID: PMC9658477 DOI: 10.3390/ani12212933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The pre-weaning piglet mortality percentage is a commonly reported metric on commercial pig farms. The mortality percentage tells us how many piglets died, but not what their welfare status was as it relates to their cause of death. This pilot study aimed to evaluate the likely experience of piglets that died, following confirmation of the cause of death via postmortem investigation. The Five Domains Model was then used to collate scientific evidence of the likely experience of these piglets before death from acute disease, starvation, crushing, savaging and euthanasia, to understand the impact of different causes on their welfare. The resulting findings raised the question of differentiating ‘smothering’ as a cause of death from ‘crushing,’, and that co-morbidities (such as hypothermia) may alter the welfare experience due to their influence on consciousness before death. Abstract This pilot study aimed to assess the welfare impacts of different causes of pre-weaning deaths in piglets. Piglets that died between 0–7 days after birth (n = 106) were collected from two commercial pig farms and subject to post-mortem examination to confirm their cause of death as well as any contributing factors. Using the Five Domains Model, the most likely affective experiences associated with the pathological findings were carefully inferred to better understand affective experience as it related to known causes of liveborn piglet mortality. The most common causes of liveborn piglet mortality were starvation (23%), crushing (23%) and non-viable (21%). Thirty one piglets had evidence of starvation, but it was only considered the primary cause of death in 15 piglets, as cofactors such as poor viability (n = 13) were also present in many piglets with evidence of starvation. All 15 piglets that were crushed died within 24 h after birth and most had evidence of thoracic and/or abdominal internal bleeding. This study found that common causes of liveborn piglet death were associated with compromises in Domains 1 (Nutrition/hydration), 3 (Health/function), and4 (Behavioural interactions), with the most likely resulting affective states described in Domain 5 (Mental state). This highlights the interaction between physical/functional and situation-related (behavioural) aspects that influence an animals’ welfare status.
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Boys RM, Beausoleil NJ, Pawley MDM, Littlewood KE, Betty EL, Stockin KA. Identification of potential welfare and survival indicators for stranded cetaceans through international, interdisciplinary expert opinion. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2022; 9:220646. [PMID: 36312566 PMCID: PMC9554527 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.220646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Management of live cetacean strandings generally focuses on refloating animals, yet there is a lack of scientific data to inform decision-making. Valid indicators that are practical to measure are needed to assess welfare status and survival likelihood for stranded cetaceans. The Delphi method was applied to gather international and interdisciplinary expert opinion to provide face validity to potential indicators of stranded cetacean welfare and survival likelihood. Two online questionnaires were conducted. In the first questionnaire these experts identified potential indicators of stranded cetacean welfare and survival likelihood. These indicators were subsequently scored by the same experts in questionnaire two, based on their value for assessing welfare/survival likelihood and being practical to measure. Indicators considered valuable and practical for assessing welfare and survival likelihood at strandings included animal-based indices of body and skin condition, signs of physical trauma, respiration rate and various behaviours. Resource-/management-based indicators related mainly to human intervention and should be correlated with animal-based indices to provide relevant evaluations. Importantly, inextricable links between welfare and survival for stranded cetaceans are emphasized, with 90% of indicators being similar for both. Investigations into these indicators should be conducted to develop a practical, science-based assessment framework to inform decision-making during stranding events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca M. Boys
- Cetacean Ecology Research Group, School of Natural Sciences, College of Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 102-904, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Ngaio J. Beausoleil
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, School of Veterinary Science, College of Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Matthew D. M. Pawley
- School of Mathematical and Computational Sciences, College of Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 102-904, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Katherine E. Littlewood
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, School of Veterinary Science, College of Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Emma L. Betty
- Cetacean Ecology Research Group, School of Natural Sciences, College of Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 102-904, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Karen A. Stockin
- Cetacean Ecology Research Group, School of Natural Sciences, College of Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 102-904, Auckland, New Zealand
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, School of Veterinary Science, College of Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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Evaluating Potential Cetacean Welfare Indicators from Video of Live Stranded Long-Finned Pilot Whales ( Globicephala melas edwardii). Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12141861. [PMID: 35883407 PMCID: PMC9312325 DOI: 10.3390/ani12141861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the known benefit of considering welfare within wildlife conservation and management, there remains a lack of data to inform such evaluations. To assess animal welfare, relevant information must be captured scientifically and systematically. A key first step is identifying potential indicators of welfare and the practicality of their measurement. We assessed the feasibility of evaluating potential welfare indicators from opportunistically gathered video footage of four stranded odontocete species (n = 53) at 14 stranding events around New Zealand. The first stranded cetacean ethogram was compiled, including 30 different behaviours, 20 of which were observed in all four species. Additionally, thirteen types of human intervention were classified. A subset of 49 live stranded long-finned pilot whales (Globicephala melas edwardii) were assessed to determine indicator prevalence and to quantify behaviours. Four ‘welfare status’ and six ‘welfare alerting’ non-behavioural indicators could be consistently evaluated from the footage. Additionally, two composite behavioural indicators were feasible. Three human intervention types (present, watering, and touching) and five animal behaviours (tail flutter, dorsal fin flutter, head lift, tail lift, and head side-to-side) were prevalent (>40% of individuals). Our study highlights the potential for non-invasive, remote assessments via video footage and represents an initial step towards developing a systematic, holistic welfare assessment framework for stranded cetaceans.
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Clarkson JM, Martin JE, McKeegan DEF. A review of methods used to kill laboratory rodents: issues and opportunities. Lab Anim 2022; 56:419-436. [PMID: 35611553 DOI: 10.1177/00236772221097472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Rodents are the most widely used species for scientific purposes. A critical pre-requisite of their use, based on utilitarian ethical reasoning, is the provision of a humane death when necessary for scientific or welfare grounds. Focussing on the welfare challenges presented by current methods, we critically evaluate the literature, consider emerging methodologies that may have potential for refinement and highlight knowledge gaps for future research. The evidence supports the conclusion that scientists and laboratory personnel should seek to avoid killing laboratory rodents by exposing them to carbon dioxide (CO2), unless exploiting its high-throughput advantage. We suggest that stakeholders and policymakers should advocate for the removal of CO2 from existing guidelines, instead making its use conditionally acceptable with justification for additional rationale for its application. With regards to physical methods such as cervical dislocation, decapitation and concussion, major welfare concerns are based on potential inaccuracy in application and their susceptibility to high failure rates. There is a need for independent quality-controlled training programmes to facilitate optimal success rates and the development of specialist tools to improve outcomes and reliability. Furthermore, we highlight questions surrounding the inconsistent inclusion criteria and acceptability of physical methods in international regulation and/or guidance, demonstrating a lack of cohesion across countries and lack of a comprehensive 'gold standard' methodology. We encourage better review of new data and championing of open access scientific resources to advocate for best practice and enable significant changes to policy and legislation to improve the welfare of laboratory rodents at killing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmine M Clarkson
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, UK
| | - Jessica E Martin
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and The Roslin Institute, The University of Edinburgh, UK
| | - Dorothy E F McKeegan
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, UK
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Fundamental Concepts, Knowledge Gaps and Key Concerns Relating to Welfare and Survival of Stranded Cetaceans. DIVERSITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/d14050338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Wildlife management can influence animal welfare and survival, although both are often not explicitly integrated into decision making. This study explores fundamental concepts and key concerns relating to the welfare and survival of stranded cetaceans. Using the Delphi method, the opinions of an international, interdisciplinary expert panel were gathered, regarding the characterisation of stranded cetacean welfare and survival likelihood, knowledge gaps and key concerns. Experts suggest that stranded cetacean welfare should be characterised based on interrelated aspects of animals’ biological function, behaviour, and mental state and the impacts of human interventions. The characterisation of survival likelihood should reflect aspects of stranded animals’ biological functioning and behaviour as well as a 6-month post-re-floating survival marker. Post-release monitoring was the major knowledge gap for survival. Welfare knowledge gaps related to diagnosing internal injuries, interpreting behavioural and physiological parameters, and euthanasia decision making. Twelve concerns were highlighted for both welfare and survival likelihood, including difficulty breathing and organ compression, skin damage and physical traumas, separation from conspecifics, and suffering and stress due to stranding and human intervention. These findings indicate inextricable links between perceptions of welfare state and the likely survival of stranded cetaceans and demonstrate a need to integrate welfare science alongside conservation biology to achieve effective, ethical management at strandings.
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15
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Dalla Costa FA, Gibson TJ, Oliveira SEO, Gregory NG, Faucitano L, Dalla Costa OA. On-farm culling methods used for pigs. Anim Welf 2021. [DOI: 10.7120/09627286.30.3.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The culling of injured and non-viable pigs (Sus scrofa) (neonate to breeding stock) is a routine and necessary procedure on most farms. Usually, pigs are culled using one of the following methods: blunt-force trauma (manual and mechanical), captive-bolt stunners, electrical stunning
and electrocution or carbon dioxide. Manual blunt-force trauma is one of the most widely used methods due to its low or absent operational and investment costs. However, as a method, it has serious limitations, which include the risk of incomplete concussion, pain, and distress. Manual blunt-force
trauma is also aesthetically unpleasant to operators and wider society. To address these issues there has been significant recent research into the development of alternatives to manual blunt-force trauma, these include: captive-bolt stunners, on-farm, gas-based controlled atmosphere systems,
low atmospheric pressure systems and electrical stunning. Some of these are currently in commercial use while others are still in the developmental phase. This review brings together the relevant research in this field, evaluating the methods in terms of mechanism of action (mechanical and
physiological), effectiveness and animal welfare.
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16
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Aromaa M, Rajamäki MM, Lilja-Maula L. A follow-up study of exercise test results and severity of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome signs in brachycephalic dogs. Anim Welf 2021. [DOI: 10.7120/09627286.30.4.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
To promote successful breeding against brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), it is important to assess how BOAS signs progress during young adulthood and how evaluation age and ageing affect the results of chosen breeding selection tools. The aims of this study were to
assess how veterinary-assessed and owner-reported BOAS signs and exercise test results change when dogs age. Eight English Bulldogs, 25 French Bulldogs, and 31 Pugs that had undergone previous evaluation were re-examined 2– 3 years later. An owner questionnaire regarding BOAS signs,
a veterinary assessment of BOAS severity, and exercise, ie walk tests were re-performed. In Pugs, both 6-min walking distance and 1,000-m time worsened and the initial evaluation age had a significant effect on the 1,000-m time. No significant changes were seen in the results of the French
Bulldogs but a negative effect on the 1,000-m time was seen with weight gain. Exercise test statistics were not performed with regard to English Bulldogs due to low sample size. The veterinary-assessed BOAS severity class remained the same in the majority of dogs and the BOAS grade worsened
mostly in those dogs that were initially evaluated at less than two years of age. Most owners reported no major changes in BOAS severity. BOAS grading and walk tests were easy to repeat and results remained relatively constant in dogs initially evaluated at over two years of age, supporting
the use of these breeding selection tools. However, further, large-scale offspring studies are still needed.
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Prevalence of Potential Indicators of Welfare Status in Young Calves at Meat Processing Premises in New Zealand. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11082467. [PMID: 34438924 PMCID: PMC8388627 DOI: 10.3390/ani11082467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In New Zealand, over two million dairy calves between four and seven days of age are sent to meat processing premises every year. There is a need to develop protocols for holistically assessing the welfare of calves sent to slaughter in the first week of life. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of potential animal-based indicators of the welfare state in bobby calves in lairage. The study observed calves in lairage between June and October 2016. Data collection involved assessing groups of calves in pens followed by non-invasive measurements on up to five calves within each pen. We made 23 visits to 12 meat processing premises with group-level observations made on 5910 calves in 102 pens, followed by a non-invasive examination of 504 calves. During the group level observations, none of the calves had their heads tilted or were panting, and coughing and play behaviour were observed in only 1% of pens. In contrast, at least one calf had faecal soiling in all the observed pens, with the percentage of calves affected in each pen ranging from 1% to 48%. In the individual observations, more than 60% of calves had signs of some degree of dehydration, and nearly 40% had some faecal soiling present. In addition, 24% of calves had a respiratory rate over 36 breaths per minute, considered higher than normal. The change in prevalence of some indicators-as time spent in lairage increased or as the calving season progressed-is worth further exploration. Identification of prevalent animal-based indicators facilitates better understanding of the welfare status of young calves in lairage, and these should be incorporated into more holistic calf welfare assessment schemes.
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18
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Schillings J, Bennett R, Rose DC. Exploring the Potential of Precision Livestock Farming Technologies to Help Address Farm Animal Welfare. FRONTIERS IN ANIMAL SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fanim.2021.639678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The rise in the demand for animal products due to demographic and dietary changes has exacerbated difficulties in addressing societal concerns related to the environment, human health, and animal welfare. As a response to this challenge, Precision Livestock Farming (PLF) technologies are being developed to monitor animal health and welfare parameters in a continuous and automated way, offering the opportunity to improve productivity and detect health issues at an early stage. However, ethical concerns have been raised regarding their potential to facilitate the management of production systems that are potentially harmful to animal welfare, or to impact the human-animal relationship and farmers' duty of care. Using the Five Domains Model (FDM) as a framework, the aim is to explore the potential of PLF to help address animal welfare and to discuss potential welfare benefits and risks of using such technology. A variety of technologies are identified and classified according to their type [sensors, bolus, image or sound based, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)], their development stage, the species they apply to, and their potential impact on welfare. While PLF technologies have promising potential to reduce the occurrence of diseases and injuries in livestock farming systems, their current ability to help promote positive welfare states remains limited, as technologies with such potential generally remain at earlier development stages. This is likely due to the lack of evidence related to the validity of positive welfare indicators as well as challenges in technology adoption and development. Finally, the extent to which welfare can be improved will also strongly depend on whether management practices will be adapted to minimize negative consequences and maximize benefits to welfare.
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Jongman EC, Woodhouse R, Rice M, Rault JL. Pre-slaughter factors linked to variation in responses to carbon dioxide gas stunning in pig abattoirs. Animal 2020; 15:100134. [PMID: 33573945 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2020.100134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The stunning process is an important component of slaughter with implications for animal welfare due to the potential distress and pain in the case of a sub-effective or lengthy stun. This study examined the factors correlated with variation in responses to carbon dioxide (CO2) stunning of pigs in five Australian commercial abattoirs. A total of 1 769 pigs (199-492 focal pigs per abattoir) were individually followed from lairage to post-stunning. A standardised observation protocol was used based on a literature review of the pre-slaughter factors that may influence the reaction to CO2 stunning, such as animal background, lairage conditions, handling, stunning system and conditions. Pigs lost posture 22.5 ± 0.2 s after commencement of descent of the gondola into the CO2 chamber. Latency to loss of posture was associated with farm of origin and time of day, which could be linked to various factors. Pigs that crawled or attempted to escape while in the gondola within the CO2 chamber took longer to lose posture. Crawl and escape attempts differed between abattoirs (0.6-46.2% of the pigs observed) as well as mounting other pigs (1.0-24.3%). Greater amounts of forceful contacts during handling in the race were related to more mounting in the gondola, but to less pigs crawling or attempting to escape. Mounting in the gondola was more frequent for pigs from lairage pens of mixed sexes, followed by pens of entire males and finally pens of females. Males were also twice as likely to show crawl and escape attempts than females. Gasping in the gondola was relatively frequent (63.1-81.8%) and was associated with higher activity in the lairage pen and higher skin injuries. Convulsions (60.1-69.6%) were generally observed after loss of posture. The type of CO2 system (group-wise vs single-file loading) had no significant effect on behaviour in the gondola. Nevertheless, pigs slaughtered in abattoirs with group-wise loading systems and automatic gates had lower cortisol concentrations post-stunning, which may be linked to minimal handling by stockpeople, other factors related to the systems, or differences in timing of when blood samples were taken. In conclusion, substantial variation in the reaction of pigs to CO2 stunning was observed between and within abattoirs using a uniform protocol for data collection. This variation in outcomes between abattoirs and stunning systems and the relationships between handling and behavioural outcomes indicates that improvements can be made to reduce aversive responses to CO2 stunning. In particular, avoiding mixing pigs of different sexes in lairage and aversive handling in the race may reduce aversive response to CO2 stunning.
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Affiliation(s)
- E C Jongman
- Animal Welfare Science Centre, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - R Woodhouse
- Animal Welfare Science Centre, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - M Rice
- Animal Welfare Science Centre, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - J-L Rault
- Animal Welfare Science Centre, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia.
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20
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Animal Welfare and Meat Quality Assessment in Gas Stunning during Commercial Slaughter of Pigs Using Hypercapnic-Hypoxia (20% CO 2 2% O 2) Compared to Acute Hypercapnia (90% CO 2 in Air). Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10122440. [PMID: 33419236 PMCID: PMC7766013 DOI: 10.3390/ani10122440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study assessed aversion, stunning effectiveness, and product quality of nitrogen and carbon dioxide (CO2) mixtures used for stunning pigs. A total of 1852 slaughter pigs divided into two similar batches was assessed during routine slaughter in a Swedish commercial abattoir using either hypercapnic-hypoxia (20% CO2 and less than 2% O2; 20C2O) or hypercapnia (90% CO2; 90C) gas mixtures. Behavioral indicators of aversion and discomfort were recorded. After exposure, the stunning quality was assessed through brainstem reflexes. After slaughter, the pH and electric conductivity of carcasses were assessed to estimate the incidence of pale, soft, and exudative (PSE) pork, and the presence of ecchymosis were inspected. Compared to 90C, pigs exposed to 20C2O showed a later (p < 0.05) onset of behaviors indicative of aversion, and a lower (p < 0.01) incidence of breathlessness. However, unconsciousness (i.e., losing posture) appeared earlier (p < 0.01) in 90C compared to 20C2O. In 90C, all (100%) pigs were adequately stunned, whereas in 20C2O a 7.4% of pigs showed signs of poor stunning, especially when oxygen concentrations were >2% (p < 0.001). The percentage of PSE carcasses was higher (p < 0.01) in 20C2O than 90C. In conclusion, compared to 90C, 20C2O reduced aversion and discomfort but showed lower stun effectiveness, especially when O2 was above 2%, and a slightly poorer pork quality.
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21
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Mellor DJ, Beausoleil NJ, Littlewood KE, McLean AN, McGreevy PD, Jones B, Wilkins C. The 2020 Five Domains Model: Including Human-Animal Interactions in Assessments of Animal Welfare. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10101870. [PMID: 33066335 PMCID: PMC7602120 DOI: 10.3390/ani10101870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 222] [Impact Index Per Article: 55.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Throughout its 25-year history, the Five Domains Model for animal welfare assessment has been regularly updated to include at each stage the latest authenticated developments in animal welfare science thinking. The domains of the most up-to-date Model described here are: 1 Nutrition, 2 Physical Environment, 3 Health, 4 Behavioural Interactions and 5 Mental State. The first four domains focus attention on factors that give rise to specific negative or positive subjective experiences (affects), which contribute to the animal's mental state, as evaluated in Domain 5. More specifically, the first three domains focus mainly on factors that disturb or disrupt particular features of the body's internal stability. Each disturbed or disrupted feature generates sensory inputs which are processed by the brain to form specific negative affects, and these affects are associated with behaviours that act to restore the body's internal stability. As each such behaviour is essential for the survival of the animal, the affects associated with them are collectively referred to as "survival-critical affects". In contrast, Domain 4, now named Behavioural Interactions, focusses on evidence of animals consciously seeking specific goals when interacting behaviourally with (1) the environment, (2) other non-human animals and (3) as a new feature of the Model outlined here, humans. The associated affects, evaluated via Domain 5, are mainly generated by brain processing of sensory inputs elicited by external stimuli. The success of the animals' behavioural attempts to achieve their chosen goals is reflected in whether the associated affects are negative or positive. Collectively referred to as "situation-related affects", these outcomes are understood to contribute to animals' perceptions of their external circumstances. These observations reveal a key distinction between the way survival-critical and situation-related affects influence animals' aligned behaviours. The former mainly reflect compelling motivations to engage in genetically embedded behavioural responses, whereas the latter mainly involve conscious behavioural choices which are the hallmarks of agency. Finally, numerous examples of human-animal interactions and their attendant affects are described, and the qualitative grading of interactions that generate negative or positive affect is also illustrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J. Mellor
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, 4442 Palmerston North, New Zealand; (N.J.B.); (K.E.L.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Ngaio J. Beausoleil
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, 4442 Palmerston North, New Zealand; (N.J.B.); (K.E.L.)
| | - Katherine E. Littlewood
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, 4442 Palmerston North, New Zealand; (N.J.B.); (K.E.L.)
| | - Andrew N. McLean
- Equitation Science International, 3 Wonderland Ave, Tuerong, VIC 3915, Australia;
| | - Paul D. McGreevy
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (P.D.M.); (B.J.)
| | - Bidda Jones
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (P.D.M.); (B.J.)
- RSPCA Australia, P.O. Box 265, Deakin West, ACT 2600, Australia
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Wireless 'under the skull' epidural EEG and behavior in piglets during nitrous oxide or carbon dioxide gas euthanasia. Physiol Behav 2020; 227:113142. [PMID: 32822708 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2020.113142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Consciousness is central to animal welfare concerns. Its assessment is most often conducted based on behavior, with a poor understanding of the correspondence between behavior and the neurobiological processes that underlie the subjective experience of consciousness. Recording of brain electrical activity using electrodes placed under the skull improves EEG recording by minimizing artifacts from muscular or cardiac activities, and it can now be combined with wireless recording in free-moving animals. This experiment investigated the correspondence between wireless 'under the skull' epidural EEG and the behavior of 18 five-week-old female piglets undergoing nitrous oxide (N2O) or carbon dioxide (CO2) gradual fill gas euthanasia at 25% replacement rate per minute of the chamber volume. Piglets exposed to CO2 had a peak in EEG total power ('Ptot') during the flailing stage, whereas piglets exposed to N2O had a higher EEG 95% spectral edge frequency ('F95') during their initial explorative behavior phase and a drop in EEG median frequency ('F50') after loss of posture. Loss of posture without righting attempt, as the last behavioral state observed during euthanasia, preceded the onset of transitional EEG on average by 0.9 and 3.1 min (for CO2 and N2O treatments, respectively), and the onset of isoelectric EEG by 4.5 and 6.2 min (for CO2 and N2O treatments, respectively). Paddling movements occurred shortly before and during transitional EEG but never during isoelectric EEG, whereas gasps persisted after the EEG had become isoelectric. The dynamics of EEG spectral changes were complex to interpret in relation to the degree of consciousness, but isoelectric EEG as an unequivocal indicator of unconsciousness appeared several minutes after loss of posture with no righting attempt. This leaves a window of uncertainty in regards to the potential for consciousness after loss of posture during gradual fill gas euthanasia in piglets.
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Gent TC, Gebhardt-Henrich S, Schild SLA, Rahman AA, Toscano MJ. Evaluation of Poultry Stunning with Low Atmospheric Pressure, Carbon Dioxide or Nitrogen Using a Single Aversion Testing Paradigm. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10081308. [PMID: 32751528 PMCID: PMC7459835 DOI: 10.3390/ani10081308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 07/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The use of gas stunning for poultry in the abattoir is considered preferable from a welfare and ethical perspective since it reduces the need for stressful handling and birds do not need to be separated from each other. Stunning with low atmospheric pressure is thought to be less stressful than the widely used carbon dioxide; however, there are no published studies directly comparing their aversiveness. Here we trained broiler breeders to indicate aversion to either carbon dioxide, low atmospheric pressure or the inert gas nitrogen, by relinquishing a food reward to seek a preferable environment. We found that exposure to carbon dioxide resulted in the rapid cessation of feeding, whereas with low atmospheric pressure and nitrogen, birds continued to eat for longer. We further found that carbon dioxide exposure resulted in more aversion behaviours, such as headshaking and gasping. These findings suggest that both low atmospheric pressure and nitrogen offer a welfare refinement to gas stunning with carbon dioxide in poultry. Abstract Low atmospheric pressure stunning (LAPS) has been suggested for use in poultry under 4 kg in the abattoir as a more humane alternative to carbon dioxide (CO2). However, there are currently no studies offering a direct comparison of the aversion between methods. Here, we trained adult female broiler breeders to relinquish a food reward by moving to another area of the gas chamber in response to aversive stimuli. They were then stunned and subsequently killed using single exposure to either CO2, N2, LAPS or medical air as a control. Birds exposed to CO2 relinquished the food reward the quickest and exhibited gasping and headshaking more than the other groups. LAPS resulted in the quickest time to loss of posture (LOP) and birds in the N2 group took the longest. Birds exposed to N2 displayed the longest duration of ataxia of any group; however, they did not show any wing-flapping prior to LOP, unlike the LAPS and CO2. Collectively these data demonstrate that both LAPS and N2 are less aversive to poultry than CO2 and may offer a significant welfare refinement for poultry killed for meat production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas C. Gent
- Anaesthesiology Section, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
- Correspondence:
| | - Sabine Gebhardt-Henrich
- Center of Proper Housing for Poultry and Rabbits, Division of Animal Welfare, University of Bern, 3052 Zollikofen, Switzerland; (S.G.-H.); (A.A.R.); (M.J.T.)
| | - Sarah-Lina Aagaard Schild
- Department of Biosystems and Technology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), 230 53 Alnarp, Sweden;
| | - Abdulsatar Abdel Rahman
- Center of Proper Housing for Poultry and Rabbits, Division of Animal Welfare, University of Bern, 3052 Zollikofen, Switzerland; (S.G.-H.); (A.A.R.); (M.J.T.)
| | - Michael J. Toscano
- Center of Proper Housing for Poultry and Rabbits, Division of Animal Welfare, University of Bern, 3052 Zollikofen, Switzerland; (S.G.-H.); (A.A.R.); (M.J.T.)
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Abstract
The aim of this review is to summarize evidence regarding rat emotional experiences during carbon dioxide (CO2) exposure. The studies reviewed show that CO2 exposure is aversive to rats, and that rats respond to CO2 exposure with active and passive defense behaviors. Plasma corticosterone and bradycardia increased in rats exposed to CO2. As with anxiogenic drugs, responses to CO2 are counteracted by the administration of anxiolytics, SRIs, and SSRI's. Human studies reviewed indicate that, when inhaling CO2, humans experience feelings of anxiety fear and panic, and that administration of benzodiazepines, serotonin precursors, and SSRIs ameliorate these feelings. In vivo and in vitro rat studies reviewed show that brain regions, ion channels, and neurotransmitters involved in negative emotional responses are activated by hypercapnia and acidosis associated with CO2 exposure. On the basis of the behavioral, physiological, and neurobiological evidence reviewed, we conclude that CO2 elicits negative emotions in rats.
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Saxmose Nielsen S, Alvarez J, Bicout DJ, Calistri P, Depner K, Drewe JA, Garin-Bastuji B, Gonzales Rojas JL, Gortázar Schmidt C, Michel V, Miranda Chueca MÁ, Roberts HC, Sihvonen LH, Stahl K, Velarde Calvo A, Viltrop A, Winckler C, Candiani D, Fabris C, Mosbach-Schulz O, Van der Stede Y, Spoolder H. Stunning methods and slaughter of rabbits for human consumption. EFSA J 2020; 18:e05927. [PMID: 32626482 PMCID: PMC7008888 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2020.5927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
This opinion on the killing of rabbits for human consumption (‘slaughtering’) responds to two mandates: one from the European Parliament (EP) and the other from the European Commission. The opinion describes stunning methods for rabbits known to the experts in the EFSA working group, which can be used in commercial practice, and which are sufficiently described in scientific and technical literature for the development of an opinion. These are electrical stunning, mechanical stunning with a penetrative and non‐penetrative captive bolt and gas stunning. The latter method is not allowed in the EU anymore following Council Regulation (EC) No 1099/2009, but may still be practiced elsewhere in the world. Related hazards and welfare consequences are also evaluated. To monitor stunning effectiveness as requested by the EP mandate, the opinion suggests the use of indicators for the state of consciousness, selected on the basis of their sensitivity, specificity and ease of use. Similarly, it suggests indicators to confirm animals are dead before dressing. For the European Commission mandate, slaughter processes were assessed from the arrival of rabbits in containers until their death, and grouped in three main phases: pre‐stunning (including arrival, unloading of containers from the truck, lairage, handling/removing of rabbits from containers), stunning (including restraint) and bleeding (including bleeding following stunning and bleeding during slaughter without stunning). Ten welfare consequences resulting from the hazards that rabbits can be exposed to during slaughter are identified: consciousness, animal not dead, thermal stress (heat or cold stress), prolonged thirst, prolonged hunger, restriction of movements, pain, fear, distress and respiratory distress. Welfare consequences and relevant animal‐based measures (indicators) are described. Outcome tables linking hazards, welfare consequences, indicators, origins, preventive and corrective measures are developed for each process. Mitigation measures to minimise welfare consequences are also proposed.
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Saxmose Nielsen S, Alvarez J, Bicout DJ, Calistri P, Depner K, Drewe JA, Garin‐Bastuji B, Gonzales Rojas JL, Gortázar Schmidt C, Michel V, Miranda Chueca MÁ, Roberts HC, Sihvonen LH, Spoolder H, Stahl K, Viltrop A, Winckler C, Candiani D, Fabris C, Van der Stede Y, Velarde A. Welfare of pigs during killing for purposes other than slaughter. EFSA J 2020; 18:e06195. [PMID: 32704316 PMCID: PMC7372489 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2020.6195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Pigs at different stages of the production cycle may have to be killed on-farm for purposes other than slaughter (where slaughter is defined as killing for human consumption) either individually (e.g. severely injured pigs) or on a large scale (e.g. unproductive animals or for disease control reasons). This opinion assessed the risks associated with the on-farm killing of pigs and included two phases: 1) handling and moving of pigs and 2) killing methods (including restraint). The killing methods were subdivided into four categories: electrical methods, mechanical methods, gas mixture methods and lethal injection. Four welfare consequences to which pigs can be exposed to during on-farm killing were identified: pain, fear, impeded movement and respiratory distress. Welfare consequences and relevant animal-based measures were described. In total, 28 hazards were associated with the welfare consequences; majority of the hazards (24) are related to Phase 2 (killing). The main hazards are associated with lack of staff skills and training, and poor-designed and constructed facilities. Staff was identified as an origin of all hazards, either due to lack of skills needed to perform appropriate killing or due to fatigue. Corrective measures were identified for 25 hazards. Outcome tables linking hazards, welfare consequences, animal-based measures, hazard origins, preventive and corrective measures were developed and mitigation measures proposed.
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Defining characteristics of immersion carbon dioxide gas for successful euthanasia of neonatal and young broilers. Poult Sci 2020; 99:4408-4416. [PMID: 32867984 PMCID: PMC7598130 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2020.05.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Revised: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated how the carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration within a chamber affects the efficacy of CO2 euthanasia and how the efficacy of CO2 induction methods changes as birds age. In experiment 1, pairs of broiler chicks (n = 192; 0, 3, and 6 D of age) were immersed into a chamber prefilled with 70, 80, 90, or 100% CO2. For experiment 2, 3- and 6-day-old broiler chicks (n = 88) were immersed in pairs into 100% CO2 or exposed to CO2 gradual fill in a chamber with a displacement rate of 28% chamber volume per minute. Latency to performance of headshaking (HS) and gasping (GS) as potential indicators of distress, loss of posture indicative of insensibility, and the cessation of rhythmic breathing (CRB) and cessation of movement (COM) as the indicators of death were monitored (live focal sampling/video recordings). The duration and frequency of HS and GS were assessed. For both experiments, behavior data were analyzed for CO2 method and age (4 × 3 factorial). Age and CO2 concentration interacted for latency to CRB and COM, with longer latencies for 0-day-old chicks immersed into 70% CO2 than other concentrations and ages. CO2 concentration did not affect latency to HS, GS, or loss of posture but affected CRB and COM, with latencies longest for 70% and shortest for 90 and 100% CO2. Newly hatched chicks had a longer latency to CRB and COM and longer duration and frequency of distress behaviors than older chicks. At all ages, initiation of all behaviors occurred later with gradual fill compared to immersion. There was an increased duration and frequency of distress behaviors with gradual induction compared with immersion. Overall, immersion into 90 to 100% CO2 resulted in the shortest time to insensibility and death, with a decreased duration and frequency of distress behaviors. Chicks immersed into 70% CO2 had the longest duration of GS and time to death. Age affects the efficacy of CO2 euthanasia, with increasing age decreasing time to death and the duration and frequency of distress behaviors.
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Nielsen SS, Alvarez J, Bicout DJ, Calistri P, Depner K, Drewe JA, Garin‐Bastuji B, Gonzales Rojas JL, Gortázar Schmidt C, Michel V, Miranda Chueca MÁ, Roberts HC, Sihvonen LH, Spoolder H, Stahl K, Viltrop A, Winckler C, Candiani D, Fabris C, Van der Stede Y, Velarde A. Welfare of pigs at slaughter. EFSA J 2020; 18:e06148. [PMID: 32874326 PMCID: PMC7447914 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2020.6148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The killing of pigs for human consumption (slaughtering) can take place in a slaughterhouse or on farm. The processes of slaughtering that were assessed for welfare, from the arrival of pigs until their death, were grouped into three main phases: pre-stunning (including arrival, unloading from the truck, lairage, handling and moving of pigs); stunning (including restraint); and bleeding. Stunning methods were grouped into three categories: electrical, controlled atmosphere and mechanical. Twelve welfare consequences the pigs can be exposed to during slaughter were identified: heat stress, cold stress, fatigue, prolonged thirst, prolonged hunger, impeded movement, restriction of movements, resting problem, negative social behaviour, pain, fear and respiratory distress. Welfare consequences and relevant animal-based measures were described. In total, 30 welfare hazards that could occur during slaughter were identified and characterised, most of them related to stunning and bleeding. Staff were identified as the origin of 29 hazards, which were attributed to the lack of appropriate skill sets needed to perform tasks or to fatigue. Corrective and preventive measures for these hazards were assessed: measures to correct hazards were identified, and management was shown to have a crucial role in prevention. Outcome tables linking hazards, welfare consequences, animal-based measures, origins and preventive and corrective measures were developed for each process. Mitigation measures to minimise welfare consequences are proposed.
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Behavioral Response of Weaned Pigs during Gas Euthanasia with CO 2, CO 2 with Butorphanol, or Nitrous Oxide. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10050787. [PMID: 32370086 PMCID: PMC7277394 DOI: 10.3390/ani10050787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Pig farmers are forced to euthanize a significant number of pigs due to injuries, hernias, or unthriftiness. The majority of pigs are euthanized using carbon dioxide gas asphyxiation. However, the humaneness of carbon dioxide is being increasingly questioned. An alternative is the use of nitrous oxide gas. We conducted this study to compare the euthanasia of young pigs using nitrous oxide or carbon dioxide. In addition, we tested the administration of a pain relief drug prior to carbon dioxide exposure to determine if we could eliminate behaviors indicative of pain. Pigs became unable to control their muscle movement, breathed heavily, and lost posture at the same time regardless of treatment. Pigs exposed to both gases showed heavy breathing and open-mouth breathing prior to losing posture. However, pigs exposed to carbon dioxide made more escape attempts but fewer squeals than pigs exposed to nitrous oxide. Administration of pain relief prior to exposure to carbon dioxide did not alter behaviors indicative of pain. The findings are inconclusive as to whether using nitrous oxide is significantly better than using carbon dioxide, but the results show that its use is just as effective, and possibly more humane. Abstract The swine industry is often forced to euthanize pigs in the first few weeks of life due to injuries, hernias, or unthriftiness. The majority of pigs are euthanized using carbon dioxide (CO2) gas asphyxiation but concerns as to the humaneness of CO2 are increasing. This study compared the euthanasia of weaned pigs using N2O (N2O; n = 9) or CO2 (n = 9), at 50% and 25% min−1 exchange rate, respectively. In addition, we administered an analgesic prior to euthanasia with CO2 (CO2B) exposure as a third treatment (n = 9) to elucidate behaviors indicative of pain. Pigs in the CO2 and N2O treatments lost posture at similar times (latency of 145.0 ± 17.3 and 162.6 ± 7.0 s respectively, p > 0.10), while the CO2B treatment pigs lost posture the soonest (101.2 ± 4.7 s, p < 0.01). The pigs in the CO2B treatment made more escape attempts than the CO2 or N2O pigs (16.4 ± 4.2, 4.7 ± 1.6, 0.3 ± 0.2, respectively; p < 0.0004). However, pigs in N2O squealed more often than either the CO2 or CO2B pigs (9.0 ± 1.6, 2.8 ± 1.2, 1.3 ± 0.6, respectively, p < 0.001). Given the similar time to loss of posture and shorter time displaying open mouth breathing, N2O may cause less stress to pigs; however, the greater number of squeals performed by these pigs suggests the opposite. It was not apparent that any behavior measured was indicative of pain. In conclusion, N2O applied at a 50% min−1 flow rate can be an alternative to CO2 for pig euthanasia.
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Mellor DJ. Mouth Pain in Horses: Physiological Foundations, Behavioural Indices, Welfare Implications, and a Suggested Solution. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10040572. [PMID: 32235343 PMCID: PMC7222381 DOI: 10.3390/ani10040572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2020] [Revised: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Mouth pain in horses, specifically that caused by bits, is evaluated as a significant welfare issue. The conscious experiences of pain generated within the body generally, its roles, and its assessment using behaviour, as well as the sensory functionality of the horse’s mouth, are outlined as background to a more detailed evaluation of mouth pain. Bit-induced mouth pain elicited by compression, laceration, inflammation, impeded blood flow, and the stretching of tissues is considered. Observable signs of mouth pain are behaviours that are present in bitted horses and absent or much less prevalent when they are bit-free. It is noted that many equestrians do not recognise that these behaviours indicate mouth pain, so that the magnitude of the problem is often underestimated. The negative experiences that are most responsible for welfare compromise include the pain itself, but also, related to this pain, potentially intense breathlessness, anxiety, and fear. Finally, a series of questions is proposed to clarify issues that are relevant to increasing the adoption of bit-free bridles in order to avoid bit-induced mouth pain. Abstract A proposition addressed here is that, although bitted horses are viewed by many equestrians as being largely free of bit-related mouth pain, it seems likely that most behavioural signs of such pain are simply not recognised. Background information is provided on the following: the major features of pain generation and experience; cerebrocortical involvement in the conscious experience of pain by mammals; the numerous other subjective experiences mammals can have; adjunct physiological responses to pain; some general feature of behavioural responses to pain; and the neural bases of sensations generated within the mouth. Mouth pain in horses is then discussed. The areas considered exclude dental disease, but they include the stimulation of pain receptors by bits in the interdental space, the tongue, the commissures of the mouth, and the buccal mucosa. Compression, laceration, inflammation, impeded tissue blood flow, and tissue stretching are evaluated as noxious stimuli. The high pain sensitivity of the interdental space is described, as are likely increases in pain sensitivity due to repeated bit contact with bruises, cuts, tears, and/or ulcers wherever they are located in the mouth. Behavioural indices of mouth pain are then identified by contrasting the behaviours of horses when wearing bitted bridles, when changed from bitted to bit-free bridles, and when free-roaming unbitted in the wild. Observed indicative behaviours involve mouth movements, head-neck position, and facial expression (“pain face”), as well as characteristic body movements and gait. The welfare impacts of bit-related pain include the noxiousness of the pain itself as well as likely anxiety when anticipating the pain and fear whilst experiencing it, especially if the pain is severe. In addition, particular mouth behaviours impede airflow within the air passages of the upper respiratory system, effects that, in their turn, adversely affect the air passages in the lungs. Here, they increase airflow resistance and decrease alveolar gas exchange, giving rise to suffocating experiences of breathlessness. In addition, breathlessness is a likely consequence of the low jowl angles commonly maintained during dressage. If severe, as with pain, the prospect of breathlessness is likely to give rise to anxiety and the direct experience of breathlessness to fear. The related components of welfare compromise therefore likely involve pain, breathlessness, anxiety, and fear. Finally, a 12-point strategy is proposed to give greater impetus to a wider adoption of bit-free bridles in order to avoid bit-induced mouth pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Mellor
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North 4474, New Zealand
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Mellor DJ, Burns M. Using the Five Domains Model to develop welfare assessment guidelines for Thoroughbred horses in New Zealand. N Z Vet J 2020; 68:150-156. [PMID: 31973682 DOI: 10.1080/00480169.2020.1715900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
This review outlines the processes followed by New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) when developing its Thoroughbred Welfare Assessment Guidelines. It accepted that guidance on welfare management must be based on up-to-date knowledge of how animal welfare is understood scientifically. NZTR established an expert panel to facilitate this process. First, major changes in animal welfare science thinking over the last 40 years were considered. For example, the separate biological function and affective state orientations were later accepted as dynamically interacting elements within the body operating as an integrated whole entity; conceptual problems with the Five Freedoms framework led to the formulation of the Five Provisions and Welfare Aims paradigm and development of the Five Domains Model for assessing nutritional, environmental, health, behavioural and mental facets of animal welfare; and the initial major focus on negative experiences evolved to include both negative and positive experiences. The Five Domains Model was very effective for illustrating up-to-date understanding of animal welfare and its use demonstrated how comprehensive animal welfare assessments may be conducted. The NZTR panel followed a sequential approach that included an update on animal welfare thinking and the Five Provisions and Welfare Aims paradigm; the generic Five Domains Model was refocused specifically on equids; a detailed model assessment of equine welfare practices was conducted; enhanced equine welfare practices were emphasised by comparing them to inadequate welfare practices; guidelines were framed in terms which provide domain-specific advice on provisions that achieve positive welfare; other domain-specific guidelines were focused on welfare-compromising consequences of inadequate provisions; and welfare-appropriate conditions were clarified for all stages of a Thoroughbred's life cycle (in work and rest) to facilitate exercising a life-long duty of care. Finally, the guidelines were expressed in general terms to avoid them becoming overly detailed and unwieldy. They therefore do not address specific welfare issues such as use of whips, bits, spurs and tight nosebands, however the Five Domains Model may also be used for these specific purposes. The guidelines, and the way they were formulated, provide an example of one approach which other organisations may find immediately useful, or which may stimulate them to devise their own approaches when progressing such equine welfare initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- D J Mellor
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - M Burns
- New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing, Wellington, New Zealand
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I Am a Compassionate Conservation Welfare Scientist: Considering the Theoretical and Practical Differences Between Compassionate Conservation and Conservation Welfare. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10020257. [PMID: 32041150 PMCID: PMC7070475 DOI: 10.3390/ani10020257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2019] [Revised: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Compassionate Conservation and Conservation Welfare are two disciplines whose practitioners advocate consideration of individual wild animals within conservation practice and policy. However, they are not, as is sometimes suggested, the same. Compassionate Conservation and Conservation Welfare are based on different underpinning ethics, which sometimes leads to conflicting views about the kinds of conservation activities and decisions that are acceptable. Key differences between the disciplines appear to relate to their views about which wild animals can experience harms, the kinds of harms they can experience and how we can know about and confidently evidence those harms. Conservation Welfare scientists seek to engage with conservation scientists with the aim of facilitating ongoing incremental improvements in all aspects of conservation, i.e., minimizing harms to animals. In contrast, it is currently unclear how the tenets of Compassionate Conservation can be used to guide decision-making in complex or novel situations. Thus, Conservation Welfare may offer modern conservationists a more palatable approach to integrating evidence-based consideration of individual sentient animals into conservation practice and policy.
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Nielsen SS, Alvarez J, Bicout DJ, Calistri P, Depner K, Drewe JA, Garin-Bastuji B, Gonzales Rojas JL, Gortázar Schmidt C, Miranda Chueca MÁ, Roberts HC, Sihvonen LH, Spoolder H, Stahl K, Velarde Calvo A, Viltrop A, Winckler C, Candiani D, Fabris C, Van der Stede Y, Michel V. Slaughter of animals: poultry. EFSA J 2019; 17:e05849. [PMID: 32626156 PMCID: PMC7008870 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2019.5849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The killing of poultry for human consumption (slaughtering) can take place in a slaughterhouse or during on-farm slaughter. The processes of slaughtering that were assessed, from the arrival of birds in containers until their death, were grouped into three main phases: pre-stunning (including arrival, unloading of containers from the truck, lairage, handling/removing of birds from containers); stunning (including restraint); and bleeding (including bleeding following stunning and bleeding during slaughter without stunning). Stunning methods were grouped into three categories: electrical, controlled modified atmosphere and mechanical. In total, 35 hazards were identified and characterised, most of them related to stunning and bleeding. Staff were identified as the origin of 29 hazards, and 28 hazards were attributed to the lack of appropriate skill sets needed to perform tasks or to fatigue. Corrective and preventive measures were assessed: measures to correct hazards were identified for 11 hazards, with management shown to have a crucial role in prevention. Ten welfare consequences, the birds can be exposed to during slaughter, were identified: consciousness, heat stress, cold stress, prolonged thirst, prolonged hunger, restriction of movements, pain, fear, distress and respiratory distress. Welfare consequences and relevant animal-based measures were described. Outcome tables linking hazards, welfare consequences, animal-based measures, origins, and preventive and corrective measures were developed for each process. Mitigation measures to minimise welfare consequences were also proposed.
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Steiner AR, Flammer SA, Beausoleil NJ, Berg C, Bettschart-Wolfensberger R, Pinillos RG, Golledge HDW, Marahrens M, Meyer R, Schnitzer T, Toscano MJ, Turner PV, Weary DM, Gent TC. Humanely Ending the Life of Animals: Research Priorities to Identify Alternatives to Carbon Dioxide. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:E911. [PMID: 31684044 PMCID: PMC6912382 DOI: 10.3390/ani9110911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Revised: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
: The use of carbon dioxide (CO2) for stunning and killing animals is considered to compromise welfare due to air hunger, anxiety, fear, and pain. Despite decades of research, no alternatives have so far been found that provide a safe and reliable way to induce unconsciousness in groups of animals, and also cause less distress than CO2. Here, we revisit the current and historical literature to identify key research questions that may lead to the identification and implementation of more humane alternatives to induce unconsciousness in mice, rats, poultry, and pigs. In addition to the evaluation of novel methods and agents, we identify the need to standardise the terminology and behavioural assays within the field. We further reason that more accurate measurements of consciousness state are needed and serve as a central component in the assessment of suffering. Therefore, we propose a roadmap toward improving animal welfare during end-of-life procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline R Steiner
- Department of Clinical and Diagnostic Services, Section of Anaesthesiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 258c, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Shannon Axiak Flammer
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Section of Anesthesia and Analgesia, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Berne, Laenggassstrasse 124, 3012 Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Ngaio J Beausoleil
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North 4410, New Zealand.
| | - Charlotte Berg
- Department of Animal Environment and Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 234, SE-53223 Skara, Sweden.
| | - Regula Bettschart-Wolfensberger
- Department of Clinical and Diagnostic Services, Section of Anaesthesiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 258c, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Rebeca García Pinillos
- Animal and Plant Health Agency and Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Nobel House, 17 Smith Square, London SW1P 3JR, UK.
| | - Huw D W Golledge
- Universities Federation for Animal Welfare (UFAW), The Old School, Brewhouse Hill, Wheathampstead, Hertfordshire AL4 8AN, UK.
| | - Michael Marahrens
- Institute of Animal Welfare and Animal Husbandry, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Dörnbergstraße 25/27, 29223 Celle, Germany.
| | - Robert Meyer
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS 39762, USA.
| | - Tobias Schnitzer
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Michael J Toscano
- Center for Proper Housing: Poultry and Rabbits (ZTHZ), Animal Welfare Division, VPH Institute, University of Bern, 3052 Zollikofen, Switzerland.
| | - Patricia V Turner
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada and Charles River, Wilmington, MA 01887, USA.
| | - Daniel M Weary
- Animal Welfare Program, University of British Colombia, 2357 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada.
| | - Thomas C Gent
- Department of Clinical and Diagnostic Services, Section of Anaesthesiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 258c, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland.
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Mellor DJ. Welfare-aligned Sentience: Enhanced Capacities to Experience, Interact, Anticipate, Choose and Survive. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:E440. [PMID: 31337042 PMCID: PMC6680886 DOI: 10.3390/ani9070440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Revised: 07/06/2019] [Accepted: 07/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The focus of this opinion is on the key features of sentience in animals which can experience different states of welfare, encapsulated by the new term 'welfare-aligned sentience'. This term is intended to exclude potential forms of sentience that do not enable animals in some taxa to have the subjective experiences which underlie different welfare states. As the scientific understanding of key features of sentience has increased markedly during the last 10 to 15 years, a major purpose here is to provide up-to-date information regarding those features. Eleven interconnected statements about sentience-associated body functions and behaviour are therefore presented and explained briefly. These statements are sequenced to provide progressively more information about key scientifically-supported attributes of welfare-aligned sentience, leading, in their entirety, to a more comprehensive understanding of those attributes. They are as follows: (1) Internal structure-function interactions and integration are the foundations of sentience; (2) animals posess a capacity to respond behaviourally to a range of sensory inputs; (3) the more sophisticated nervous systems can generate subjective experiences, that is, affects; (4) sentience means that animals perceive or experience different affects consciously; (5) within a species, the stage of neurobiological development is significant; (6) during development the onset of cortically-based consciousness is accompanied by cognitively-enhanced capacities to respond behaviourally to unpredictable postnatal environments; (7) sentience includes capacities to communicate with others and to interact with the environment; (8) sentience incorporates experiences of negative and positive affects; (9) negative and positive affective experiences 'matter' to animals for various reasons; (10) acknowledged obstacles inherent in anthropomorphism are largely circumvented by new scientific knowledge, but caution is still required; and (11) there is increasing evidence for sentience among a wider range of invertebrates. The science-based explanations of these statements provide the foundation for a brief definition of 'welfare-aligned sentience', which is offered for consideration. Finally, it is recommended that when assessing key features of sentience the same emphasis should be given to positive and negative affective experiences in the context of their roles in, or potential impacts on, animal welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Mellor
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand.
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O’Neill DG, Skipper AM, Kadhim J, Church DB, Brodbelt DC, Packer RMA. Disorders of Bulldogs under primary veterinary care in the UK in 2013. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0217928. [PMID: 31188857 PMCID: PMC6561557 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0217928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The Bulldog is a popular companion breed in the UK despite widely reported disease predispositions. This study aimed to characterise the demography, mortality and common disorders of Bulldogs under veterinary care in the UK during 2013. VetCompass collates anonymised clinical data from UK primary-care veterinary practices for epidemiological research. The clinical records of all Bulldogs available in the VetCompass study dataset were reviewed manually in detail to extract the most definitive diagnoses recorded for all disorders that existed during 2013 and for all deaths. Bulldogs comprised 1621 (0.36%) of 445,557 study dogs. Bulldogs increased from 0.35% of the 2009 birth cohort to 0.60% in 2013. Median longevity was 7.2 years, which was lower in males (6.7 years) than females (7.9 years) (P = 0.021). The most prevalent fine-level precision disorders recorded were otitis externa (n = 206, prevalence 12.7%, 95% CI: 11.1–14.4), pyoderma (142, 8.8%, 95% CI: 7.4–10.2) and overweight/obesity (141, 8.7%, 95% CI: 7.4–10.2). The most prevalent disorder groups were cutaneous (n = 463, prevalence: 28.6%, 95% CI: 26.4–30.8), ophthalmological (292, 18.0%, 95% CI: 16.2–20.0), aural (211, 13.0%, 95% CI: 11.4–14.8), enteropathy (188, 11.6%, 95% CI: 10.1–13.3) and upper respiratory tract (171, 10.5%, 95% CI: 9.1–12.1). Provision of an evidence base on the most common disorders and causes of mortality within breeds can support owners, breeders and the veterinary profession to improve health and welfare within these breed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan G. O’Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Science, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Alison M. Skipper
- Department of History, King’s College London, Strand, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jade Kadhim
- Pathobiology and Population Science, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - David B. Church
- Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Dave C. Brodbelt
- Pathobiology and Population Science, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Rowena M. A. Packer
- Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
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Baker BI, Torrey S, Widowski TM, Turner PV, Knezacek TD, Nicholds J, Crowe TG, Schwean-Lardner K. Evaluation of carbon dioxide induction methods for the euthanasia of day-old cull broiler chicks. Poult Sci 2019; 98:2043-2053. [PMID: 30624707 DOI: 10.3382/ps/pey581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
This study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of 5 different CO2 euthanasia induction techniques for day-old cull chicks in minimizing distress and inducing a rapid loss of sensibility and death. Each induction treatment was characterized for concentration change over time, maximum concentration, and time to reach maximum. Sixteen chicks were euthanized with the gradual treatments to establish validity of treatment. Then, all 5 treatments were evaluated for effect on distress, insensibility, and death. Day-of-hatch cull chicks (n = 110) were euthanized in pairs by either immersion into 100% CO2 or gradual induction to 100% CO2 at displacement rates of 7, 14, 21, or 28% of chamber volume added per min (% vol/min). CO2 concentration was measured at chick level. Live focal observations and video recordings were used to assess latency to behavioral responses: head shaking (HS) and gasping (GS) as indicators of distress; loss of posture (LOP) as an indicator of insensibility; and cessation of rhythmic breathing (CRB) and movement (COM), indicating death. All behaviors occurred at the earliest with immersion compared to gradual treatments, and time between first signs of distress and LOP was shorter for immersion than gradual treatments. Gradual treatments showed a linear decrease in latency to HS, GS, and LOP as displacement rate increased. Latency to CRB decreased quadratically with increasing displacement rate, while COM decreased linearly. Within gradual treatments, HS and GS occurred at CO2 concentrations between 0.43 and 1.14%, LOP between 11.1 and 17.5%, while CRB and COM occurred between 61.8 and 78.4%. Overall, immersion induced distress, insensibility, and death significantly faster and with the shortest interval between distress and insensibility. For gradual treatment, insensibility and death occurred faster with increasing displacement rates. Behavioral signs of distress were observed with all treatments, and occurred at concentrations lower than those causing insensibility. In conclusion, immersion into 100% CO2 environment resulted in the shortest time of distress and fastest time to death compared to gradual displacement rates of any speed measured.
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Affiliation(s)
- B I Baker
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon S7N 5A8, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - S Torrey
- Campbell Centre for Study of Animal Welfare, University of Guelph, Guelph N1G 2W1, Ontario, Canada
| | - T M Widowski
- Campbell Centre for Study of Animal Welfare, University of Guelph, Guelph N1G 2W1, Ontario, Canada
| | - P V Turner
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph N1G 2W1, Ontario, Canada
| | - T D Knezacek
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon S7N 5A8, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - J Nicholds
- Poultry Diagnostic and Research Center, Department of Population Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - T G Crowe
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon S7N 5A8, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - K Schwean-Lardner
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon S7N 5A8, Saskatchewan, Canada
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Nattrass N, Stephens J, Loubser JJ. Animal welfare and ecology in the contested ethics of rodent control in Cape Town. JOURNAL OF URBAN ECOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.1093/jue/juz008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractThere is growing concern globally about the inhumane treatment of ‘pest’ animals, including rodents, and about the ecological consequences of rodenticides, notably the poisoning of non-target wildlife like raptors and scavengers. Recent contestation between Environmental Health (EH) officials in Khayelitsha, Cape Town’s largest African township, and the National Council for Societies for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA) illustrates the tension that can arise between innovative ecologically-focused strategies and existing legislation and animal protection practices. In 2013/14 EH officials introduced a job-creation project to trap and drown rats, describing it as ‘humane’ because it avoided poison thereby posing no danger to wildlife such as owls. The NSPCA, however, halted the project, arguing that drowning was both inhumane and illegal. Death by poison is also inhumane but the South Africa’s Animals Protection Act (1962) allows it (and trapping and hunting) to be used against ‘pests’/‘vermin’. The NSPCA, which has never challenged the Act for allowing the inhumane treatment of these animals, used it to trump local preferences. A representative survey from Khayelitsha showed that there was some support for an NSPCA-like position (14% thought that drowning was cruel and that workers should not be allowed to trap and drown rats) but that the majority (70%) indicated that they were both concerned about the poisoning of non-target animals and supported the continuation of the trapping and drowning project. This was not a contestation over whether animals should be protected, but over how to do this, and which animals to include.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicoli Nattrass
- Institute for Communities and Wildlife in Africa (iCWild), University of Cape Town, Private Bag, Rondebosch, 7700 Cape Town, South Africa
- Centre for Social Science Research (CSSR), University of Cape Town, Private Bag, Rondebosch, 7700 Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Economics, University of Cape Town, Private Bag, Rondebosch, 7700 Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jed Stephens
- Institute for Communities and Wildlife in Africa (iCWild), University of Cape Town, Private Bag, Rondebosch, 7700 Cape Town, South Africa
- Centre for Social Science Research (CSSR), University of Cape Town, Private Bag, Rondebosch, 7700 Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jorich Johann Loubser
- Institute for Communities and Wildlife in Africa (iCWild), University of Cape Town, Private Bag, Rondebosch, 7700 Cape Town, South Africa
- Centre for Social Science Research (CSSR), University of Cape Town, Private Bag, Rondebosch, 7700 Cape Town, South Africa
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Fawcett A, Barrs V, Awad M, Child G, Brunel L, Mooney E, Martinez-Taboada F, McDonald B, McGreevy P. Consequences and Management of Canine Brachycephaly in Veterinary Practice: Perspectives from Australian Veterinarians and Veterinary Specialists. Animals (Basel) 2018; 9:E3. [PMID: 30577619 PMCID: PMC6356869 DOI: 10.3390/ani9010003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2018] [Revised: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
This article, written by veterinarians whose caseloads include brachycephalic dogs, argues that there is now widespread evidence documenting a link between extreme brachycephalic phenotypes and chronic disease, which compromises canine welfare. This paper is divided into nine sections exploring the breadth of the impact of brachycephaly on the incidence of disease, as indicated by pet insurance claims data from an Australian pet insurance provider, the stabilization of respiratory distress associated with brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), challenges associated with sedation and the anaesthesia of patients with BOAS; effects of brachycephaly on the brain and associated neurological conditions, dermatological conditions associated with brachycephalic breeds, and other conditions, including ophthalmic and orthopedic conditions, and behavioural consequences of brachycephaly. In the light of this information, we discuss the ethical challenges that are associated with brachycephalic breeds, and the role of the veterinarian. In summary, dogs with BOAS do not enjoy freedom from discomfort, nor freedom from pain, injury, and disease, and they do not enjoy the freedom to express normal behaviour. According to both deontological and utilitarian ethical frameworks, the breeding of dogs with BOAS cannot be justified, and further, cannot be recommended, and indeed, should be discouraged by veterinarians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Fawcett
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia.
| | - Vanessa Barrs
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia.
| | - Magdoline Awad
- PetSure, 465 Victoria Avenue, Chatswood, NSW 2067, Australia.
| | - Georgina Child
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia.
| | - Laurencie Brunel
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia.
| | - Erin Mooney
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia.
| | - Fernando Martinez-Taboada
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia.
| | - Beth McDonald
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia.
| | - Paul McGreevy
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia.
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Littlewood KE, Beausoleil NJ, Stafford KJ, Stephens C, Collins T, Fawcett A, Hazel S, Lloyd JKF, Mallia C, Richards L, Wedler NK, Zito S. Exploring how end-of-life management is taught to Australasian veterinary students. Part 1: technical euthanasia. Vet Rec 2018; 183:691. [DOI: 10.1136/vr.104775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2017] [Revised: 09/27/2018] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine E Littlewood
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, School of Veterinary Science, Massey University; Palmerston North New Zealand
| | - Ngaio J Beausoleil
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, School of Veterinary Science, Massey University; Palmerston North New Zealand
| | - Kevin J Stafford
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, School of Veterinary Science, Massey University; Palmerston North New Zealand
| | - Christine Stephens
- School of Psychology, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Massey University; Palmerston North New Zealand
| | - Teresa Collins
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Murdoch University; Murdoch Western Australia Australia
| | - Anne Fawcett
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science; Faculty of Science; The University of Sydney; Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Susan Hazel
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide; Roseworthy South Australia Australia
| | - Janice K F Lloyd
- Discipline of Veterinary Sciences; College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University; Townsville Queensland Australia
| | - Catherine Mallia
- School of Environmental Sciences; Faculty of Science; Charles Sturt University; Albury New South Wales Australia
| | - Leonie Richards
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Melbourne; Werribee Victoria Australia
| | - Nicole K Wedler
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Murdoch University; Murdoch Western Australia Australia
| | - Sarah Zito
- Animal Welfare Science and Education Department; Royal New Zealand SPCA National Office; Auckland New Zealand
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Beausoleil NJ, Mellor DJ, Baker L, Baker SE, Bellio M, Clarke AS, Dale A, Garlick S, Jones B, Harvey A, Pitcher BJ, Sherwen S, Stockin KA, Zito S. "Feelings and Fitness" Not "Feelings or Fitness"-The Raison d'être of Conservation Welfare, Which Aligns Conservation and Animal Welfare Objectives. Front Vet Sci 2018; 5:296. [PMID: 30538995 PMCID: PMC6277474 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2018.00296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2018] [Accepted: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasingly, human activities, including those aimed at conserving species and ecosystems (conservation activities) influence not only the survival and fitness but also the welfare of wild animals. Animal welfare relates to how an animal is experiencing its life and encompasses both its physical and mental states. While conservation biology and animal welfare science are both multi-disciplinary fields that use scientific methods to address concerns about animals, their focus and objectives sometimes appear to conflict. However, activities impacting detrimentally on the welfare of individual animals also hamper achievement of some conservation goals, and societal acceptance is imperative to the continuation of conservation activities. Thus, the best outcomes for both disciplines will be achieved through collaboration and knowledge-sharing. Despite this recognition, cross-disciplinary information-sharing and collaborative research and practice in conservation are still rare, with the exception of the zoo context. This paper summarizes key points developed by a group of conservation and animal welfare scientists discussing scientific assessment of wild animal welfare and barriers to progress. The dominant theme emerging was the need for a common language to facilitate cross-disciplinary progress in understanding and safeguarding the welfare of animals of wild species. Current conceptions of welfare implicit in conservation science, based mainly on "fitness" (physical states), need to be aligned with contemporary animal welfare science concepts which emphasize the dynamic integration of "fitness" and "feelings" (mental experiences) to holistically understand animals' welfare states. The way in which animal welfare is characterized influences the way it is evaluated and the emphasis put on different features of welfare, as well as, the importance placed on the outcomes of such evaluations and how that information is used, for example in policy development and decision-making. Salient examples from the New Zealand and Australian context are presented to illustrate. To genuinely progress our understanding and evaluation of wild animal welfare and optimize the aims of both scientific disciplines, conservation and animal welfare scientists should work together to evolve and apply a common understanding of welfare. To facilitate this, we propose the formal development of a new discipline, Conservation Welfare, integrating the expertise of scientists from both fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ngaio J. Beausoleil
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - David J. Mellor
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Liv Baker
- Centre for Compassionate Conservation, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Sandra E. Baker
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Department of Zoology, Recanati-Kaplan Centre, University of Oxford, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Mariagrazia Bellio
- Institute of Land Water and Society, Charles Sturt University, Albury, NSW, Australia
| | - Alison S. Clarke
- Veterinary Emergency Centre and Hospital, JCU Vet, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - Arnja Dale
- Royal New Zealand Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Steve Garlick
- Centre for Compassionate Conservation, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Possumwood Wildlife Recovery and Research, Bungendore, NSW, Australia
| | - Bidda Jones
- Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Australia, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Andrea Harvey
- Centre for Compassionate Conservation, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | | | - Karen A. Stockin
- Coastal Marine Research Group, Institute of Natural and Mathematical Sciences, Massey University, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Sarah Zito
- Royal New Zealand Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Auckland, New Zealand
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Mattin MJ, Boswood A, Church DB, Brodbelt DC. Prognostic factors in dogs with presumed degenerative mitral valve disease attending primary-care veterinary practices in the United Kingdom. J Vet Intern Med 2018; 33:432-444. [PMID: 30357909 PMCID: PMC6430873 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.15251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2018] [Revised: 04/19/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Prognostic risk factors were identified for dogs with degenerative mitral valve disease (DMVD) monitored by veterinary cardiologists. The value of these measurements has not been determined in the wider primary care setting. Objectives To evaluate whether plasma cardiac biomarkers and data obtained from routine history‐taking and physical examination are predictive of survival in dogs with DMVD attending primary care practice. Animals Eight‐hundred and ninety‐three dogs with a presumptive diagnosis of DMVD recruited from 79 primary care veterinary practices in the United Kingdom. Methods Prospective cohort study. Primary care veterinary practitioners recorded clinical data. Plasma N‐terminal pro B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) and cardiac troponin I (cTnI) were measured at presentation. Cox regression models evaluated associations between risk factor variables and hazard of death (all‐cause mortality and cardiac‐related death). Flexible parametric models generated predicted survival probabilities for dogs with different combinations of prognostic risk factor variable values. Results Dogs with higher NT‐proBNP and cTnI concentrations, higher heart rates, older dogs, females, and those reported to be exercise intolerant, dyspneic, and diagnosed with selected comorbidities had an increased hazard of death due to any cause. Dogs with higher concentrations of plasma biomarkers, higher heart rates, and heart murmur intensities, those with exercise intolerance and those receiving potent diuretics had a higher hazard of cardiac‐related death. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Cardiac biomarkers and key clinical findings identified in this study can help primary care veterinary practitioners identify dogs with DMVD that are at highest risk of death.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Mattin
- Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London, The United Kingdom
| | - A Boswood
- Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London, The United Kingdom
| | - D B Church
- Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London, The United Kingdom
| | - D C Brodbelt
- Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London, The United Kingdom
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Managing Aged Animals in Zoos to Promote Positive Welfare: A Review and Future Directions. Animals (Basel) 2018; 8:ani8070116. [PMID: 30011793 PMCID: PMC6070885 DOI: 10.3390/ani8070116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2018] [Revised: 07/06/2018] [Accepted: 07/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Many animals experience physical and behavioral changes as they age. Age-related changes in physical or mental ability can limit the opportunities for animals to experience positive well-being. As animals in zoos are living longer than ever, understanding common physical, cognitive, and behavioral changes associated with ageing across species can help inform management practices. This review aggregates information about common age-related changes across a wide number of species, discusses the potential welfare impacts of these changes for ageing animals, and suggests methods for caretakers to maximize positive welfare opportunities for ageing animals under human care. Abstract Improvements in veterinary care, nutrition, and husbandry of animals living in zoos have led to an increase in the longevity of these animals over the past 30 years. In this same time period, the focus of animal welfare science has shifted from concerns over mitigating negative welfare impacts to promoting positive welfare experiences for animals. For instance, providing opportunities for animals to exert agency, solve problems, or acquire rewards are all associated with positive welfare outcomes. Many common age-related changes result in limitations to opportunities for positive welfare experiences, either due to pain or other physical, cognitive, or behavioral limitations. This review aggregates information regarding common age-related physical and behavioral changes across species, discusses how age-related changes may limit positive welfare opportunities of aged animals in human care, and suggests potential management methods to help promote positive welfare for animals at all life stages in zoos and aquariums.
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Ledger RA, Mellor DJ. Forensic Use of the Five Domains Model for Assessing Suffering in Cases of Animal Cruelty. Animals (Basel) 2018; 8:ani8070101. [PMID: 29941781 PMCID: PMC6071132 DOI: 10.3390/ani8070101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2018] [Revised: 06/18/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Courts hearing cases about alleged ill-treatment of animals frequently utilise expert opinions which evaluate the nature and seriousness of reported negative welfare impacts. For several decades the Courts have required statements about such impacts to be supported mainly by physical and/or clinical evidence, usually regarding commentary about animals’ subjective experiences as being scientifically unsupported anthropomorphic speculation. This approach is well aligned with a view of animal welfare developed in the 1980s which emphasised scientifically validated features of “biological functioning” and, at an extreme, rejected any reference to subjective experiences that animals might have. However, subjective experiences, which include emotions, feelings, moods, and motivations, technically known as affects or affective states, became an increasing focus for animal behaviour scientists from the 1990s. This is now known as the “affective state” conceptual framework and it has been strengthened during the last two decades by integrating the findings of animal behaviour scientists and neuroscientists who explored brain processes that generate affective experiences. This provided cogent scientific support both for the existence of specific affects and the use of animals’ behaviour and some physiological responses to identify them. Two outcomes are noteworthy: first, that an animal’s welfare state is now very widely regarded by animal welfare scientists to reflect all of its affects experienced at any particular time, i.e., what the animal is experiencing subjectively; and second, that the extensive scientific understanding of the brain processes underlying affective experiences now convincingly negates spurious accusations of anthropomorphic speculation. These and other matters are considered here. It is concluded that the Courts’ current heavy reliance on physical and/or clinical evidence of ill-treatment should be modified. Instead, Courts should now recognise—as validly based—expert opinions that provide cogent evidence of untoward affective outcomes caused by ill-treatment, supplemented where appropriate by any relevant physical and/or clinical evidence if that is available. Abstract Conceptual frameworks for understanding animal welfare scientifically are widely influential. An early “biological functioning” framework still influences expert opinions prepared for Courts hearing animal cruelty cases, despite deficiencies in it being revealed by the later emergence and wide scientific adoption of an “affective state” framework. According to “biological functioning” precepts, indices of negative welfare states should predominantly be physical and/or clinical and any that refer to animals’ supposed subjective experiences, i.e., their “affective states”, should be excluded. However, “affective state” precepts, which have secure affective neuroscience and aligned animal behaviour science foundations, show that behavioural indices may be utilised to credibly identify negative welfare outcomes in terms of negative subjective experiences, or affects. It is noted that the now very wide scientific acceptance of the “affective state” framework is entirely consistent with the current extensive international recognition that animals of welfare significance are “sentient” beings. A long list of negative affects is discussed and each one is described as a prelude to updating the concept of “suffering” or “distress”, often referred to in animal welfare legislation and prosecutions for alleged ill-treatment of animals. The Five Domains Model for assessing and grading animal welfare compromise is then discussed, highlighting that it incorporates a coherent amalgamation of “biological functioning” and “affective state” precepts into its operational features. That is followed by examples of severe-to-very-severe ill-treatment of dogs. These include inescapable psychological and/or physical abuse or mistreatment, excessively restrictive or otherwise detrimental housing or holding conditions, and/or seriously inadequate provision of the necessities of life, in each case drawing attention to specific affects that such ill-treatment generates. It is concluded that experts should frame their opinions in ways that include negative affective outcomes. Moreover, the cogency of such analyses should be drawn to the attention of the Judiciary when they are deliberating on suffering in animals, thereby providing a basis for them to move from a current heavy reliance on physical and/or clinical indices of cruelty or neglect towards including in their decisions careful evaluations of animals’ negative affective experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca A Ledger
- Animal Welfare and Behaviour Consulting, P.O. Box 72012, Sasamat RPO, Vancouver, BC V6R 4P2, Canada.
| | - David J Mellor
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North 4474, New Zealand.
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O'Neill DG, Baral L, Church DB, Brodbelt DC, Packer RMA. Demography and disorders of the French Bulldog population under primary veterinary care in the UK in 2013. Canine Genet Epidemiol 2018; 5:3. [PMID: 29750111 PMCID: PMC5932866 DOI: 10.1186/s40575-018-0057-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Despite its Gallic name, the French Bulldog is a breed of both British and French origin that was first recognised by The Kennel Club in 1906. The French Bulldog has demonstrated recent rapid rises in Kennel Club registrations and is now (2017) the second most commonly registered pedigree breed in the UK. However, the breed has been reported to be predisposed to several disorders including ocular, respiratory, neurological and dermatological problems. The VetCompass™ Programme collates de-identified clinical data from primary-care veterinary practices in the UK for epidemiological research. Using VetCompass™ clinical data, this study aimed to characterise the demography and common disorders of the general population of French Bulldogs under veterinary care in the UK. Results French Bulldogs comprised 2228 (0.49%) of 445,557 study dogs under veterinary care during 2013. Annual proportional birth rates showed that the proportional ownership of French Bulldog puppies rose steeply from 0.02% of the annual birth cohort attending VetCompass™ practices in 2003 to 1.46% in 2013. The median age of the French Bulldogs overall was 1.3 years (IQR 0.6–2.5, range 0.0–13.0). The most common colours of French Bulldogs were brindle (solid or main) (32.36%) and fawn (solid or main) (29.9%). Of the 2228 French Bulldogs under veterinary care during 2013, 1612 (72.4%) had at least one disorder recorded. The most prevalent fine-level precision disorders recorded were otitis externa (14.0%, 95% CI: 12.6–15.5), diarrhoea (7.5%, 95% CI: 6.4–8.7), conjunctivitis (3.2%, 95% CI: 2.5–4.0), nails overlong (3.1%, 95% CI% 2.4–3.9) and skin fold dermatitis (3.0%, 95% CI% 2.3–3.8). The most prevalent disorder groups were cutaneous (17.9%, 95% CI: 16.3–19.6), enteropathy (16.7%, 95% CI: 15.2–18.3), aural (16.3%, 95% CI: 14.8–17.9), upper respiratory tract (12.7%, 95% CI: 11.3–14.1) and ophthalmological (10.5%, 95% CI: 9.3–11.9). Conclusions Ownership of French Bulldogs in the UK is rising steeply. This means that the disorder profiles reported in this study reflect a current young UK population and are likely to shift as this cohort ages. Otitis externa, diarrhoea and conjunctivitis were the most common disorders in French Bulldogs. Identification of health priorities based on VetCompass™ data can support evidence–based reforms to improve health and welfare within the breed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan G O'Neill
- 1Pathobiology and Population Science, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA UK
| | - Lauren Baral
- 2The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA UK
| | - David B Church
- 3Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA UK
| | - Dave C Brodbelt
- 1Pathobiology and Population Science, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA UK
| | - Rowena M A Packer
- 3Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA UK
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Smith RK, Rault JL, Gates RS, Lay DC. A Two-Step Process of Nitrous Oxide before Carbon Dioxide for Humanely Euthanizing Piglets: On-Farm Trials. Animals (Basel) 2018; 8:ani8040052. [PMID: 29617328 PMCID: PMC5946136 DOI: 10.3390/ani8040052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Revised: 03/29/2018] [Accepted: 03/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Current methods of euthanizing piglets are raising animal welfare concerns. Our experiment used a novel two-step euthanasia method, using nitrous oxide (N₂O) for six minutes and then carbon dioxide (CO₂) on compromised 0- to 7-day-old piglets. A commercial euthanasia chamber was modified to deliver two euthanasia treatments: the two-step method using N₂O then CO₂ (N₂O treatment) or only CO₂ (CO₂ treatment). In Experiment 1, 18 piglets were individually euthanized. In Experiment 2, 18 groups of four to six piglets were euthanized. In the N₂O treatment, piglets lost posture, indicating the onset of losing consciousness, before going into CO₂ where they showed heavy breathing and open-mouth breathing; whereas piglets in the CO₂ treatment did not lose posture until after exhibiting these behaviors (p ≤ 0.004). However, piglets in the N₂O treatment took longer to lose posture compared to the CO₂ treatment (p < 0.001). Piglets in the N₂O treatment displayed more behavioral signs of stress and aversion: squeals/minute (p = 0.004), escape attempts per pig (p = 0.021), and righting responses per pig (p = 0.084) in a group setting. In these regards, it cannot be concluded that euthanizing piglets for 6 min with N₂O and then CO₂ is more humane than euthanizing with CO₂ alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca K Smith
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.
| | - Jean-Loup Rault
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Animal Welfare, University of Veterinary Medicine, A-1210 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Richard S Gates
- Department of Agriculture and Biological Engineering, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61801, USA.
| | - Donald C Lay
- USDA-ARS, Livestock Behavior Research Unit, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.
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Kells N, Beausoleil N, Johnson C, Sutherland M. Evaluation of Different Gases and Gas Combinations for On-Farm Euthanasia of Pre-Weaned Pigs. Animals (Basel) 2018; 8:ani8030040. [PMID: 29547548 PMCID: PMC5867528 DOI: 10.3390/ani8030040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Revised: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 03/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this research was to evaluate the welfare of pre-weaned piglets euthanised using three different gas treatments: 100% carbon dioxide (CO₂), 100% argon (Ar) or a mixture of 60% Ar/40% carbon dioxide (Ar/CO₂). Two studies (n = 5 piglets/treatment/study) were conducted: (1) behavioural and physiological data were collected from conscious piglets during exposure to test gases via immersion in a pre-filled chamber and (2) electrophysiological data were collected from lightly anaesthetised, intubated and mechanically ventilated piglets exposed to the same test gases. Based on the duration of escape attempts and laboured breathing, piglets exposed to 100% CO₂ experienced more stress than piglets exposed to 100% Ar prior to loss of consciousness, but there appeared to be no advantage of mixing Ar with CO₂ on indices of animal welfare. However, spectral analysis of the electroencephalogram revealed no changes consistent with nociception during exposure to any of the three gas treatments. Based on the behavioural response to gas exposure, all gases tested caused signs of stress prior to piglets losing consciousness and hence alternative methods of euthanasia need to be evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikki Kells
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand.
| | - Ngaio Beausoleil
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand.
| | - Craig Johnson
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand.
| | - Mhairi Sutherland
- AgResearch Ltd., Ruakura Research Centre, Hamilton 3240, New Zealand.
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Abstract
Simple Summary Male layer chicks do not have economic value and are humanely killed after hatching. The layer industry is seeking alternative methods to humanely kill recently hatched male chicks. This study evaluated the use of gases or negative air pressure as a means of humane and viable alternatives to maceration. The treatments included carbon dioxide, nitrogen, reduced air pressure, and a negative control. The study showed that chicks exposed to treatments, gases or negative air pressure, did not differ significantly in terms of the physiological stress response. The use of carbon dioxide resulted in a faster onset of unconsciousness and ultimately death as compared to nitrogen or negative air pressure treatments. Abstract Hatched male layer chicks are currently euthanized by maceration in the United States. Public concerns on the use of maceration have led to the search for alternative methods. We hypothesized that gas inhalation and low atmospheric pressure stunning (LAPS) are viable and humane alternatives to instantaneous mechanical destruction. The objective of this study was to evaluate the physiological and behavioral responses of recently hatched male layer chicks when subjected to carbon dioxide, nitrogen inhalation, or LAPS. The study consisted of seven treatments: breathing air (NEG), 25% carbon dioxide (CO2), 50% CO2, 75% CO2, 90% CO2, 100% nitrogen (N2), or LAPS. Ten day-of-hatch, male layer chicks were randomly assigned to each treatment, and each treatment was replicated on ten different days. A custom-made vacuum system was used to reduce air pressure inside the chamber from 100.12 kPa to 15.3 kPa for the LAPS treatment. Serum corticosterone and serotonin levels were measured using commercially available competitive enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Latencies to loss of posture and motionlessness were determined from video recordings. The 25% and 50% CO2 treatments were discontinued after the first replication, as the majority of the chicks recovered. The chicks in the negative (NEG) group had significantly higher levels of corticosterone than the other four euthanasia treatments. On the other hand, the serotonin levels of chicks in the NEG group was significantly lower when compared to the other four euthanasia treatments. The latencies to loss of posture and motionlessness of chicks exposed to 75% and 90% CO2 were significantly shorter than those in the LAPS and N2 inhalation treatments. These data suggest that the stress responses of chicks to the CO2, N2, and LAPS treatments do not differ among each other. However, the CO2 inhalation method was faster in inducing loss of posture and motionlessness in chicks than the LAPS and N2 inhalation treatments.
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Tilbrook AJ, Ralph CR. Hormones, stress and the welfare of animals. ANIMAL PRODUCTION SCIENCE 2018. [DOI: 10.1071/an16808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
There are numerous endocrine (hormonal) responses during stress and these are often complex. This complexity makes the study of endocrine stress responses challenging and the challenges are intensified when attempts are made to use measures of hormones to assess the welfare of animals because so many endocrine systems are activated during stress and because there are countless stimuli that trigger these systems. Most research has concentrated on only a small number of these endocrine systems, particularly the hypothalamo–pituitary adrenal axis and the sympathoadrenal system, and there is a need to broaden the scope of endocrine systems that are studied. Furthermore, systematic approaches are required to establish when the actions of hormones associated with stress responses result in physiological and/or behavioural consequences that will have negative or positive effects on the welfare of animals.
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O’Neill DG, Keijser SFA, Hedhammar Å, Kisko C, Leroy G, Llewellyn-Zaidi A, Malm S, Olson PN, Packer RMA, Rousselot JF, Seath IJ, Stull JW, Bonnett BN. Moving from information and collaboration to action: report from the 3rd International Dog Health Workshop, Paris in April 2017. Canine Genet Epidemiol 2017; 4:16. [PMID: 29234500 PMCID: PMC5719757 DOI: 10.1186/s40575-017-0054-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breed-related health problems in dogs have received increased focus over the last decade. Responsibility for causing and/or solving these problems has been variously directed towards dog breeders and kennel clubs, the veterinary profession, welfare scientists, owners, regulators, insurance companies and the media. In reality, all these stakeholders are likely to share some responsibility and optimal progress on resolving these challenges requires all key stakeholders to work together. The International Partnership for Dogs (IPFD), together with an alternating host organization, holds biennial meetings called the International Dog Health Workshops (IDHW). The Société Centrale Canine (French Kennel Club) hosted the 3rd IDHW, in Paris, in April, 2017. These meetings bring together a wide range of stakeholders in dog health, science and welfare to improve international sharing of information and resources, to provide a forum for ongoing collaboration, and to identify specific needs and actions to improve health, well-being and welfare in dogs. RESULTS The workshop included 140 participants from 23 countries and was structured around six important issues facing those who work to improve dog health. These included individualized breed-specific strategies for health and breeding, extreme conformations, education and communication in relation to antimicrobial resistance, behavior and welfare, genetic testing and population-based evidence. A number of exciting actions were agreed during the meeting. These included setting up working groups to create tools to help breed clubs accelerate the implementation of breed-health strategies, review aspects of extreme conformation and share useful information on behavior. The meeting also heralded the development of an online resource of relevant information describing quality measures for DNA testing. A demand for more and better data and evidence was a recurring message stressed across all themes. CONCLUSIONS The meeting confirmed the benefits from inclusion of a diverse range of stakeholders who all play relevant and collaborative parts to improve future canine health. Firm actions were set for progress towards improving breed-related welfare. The next international workshop will be in the UK in 2019 and will be organized by the UK Kennel Club.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan G. O’Neill
- Pathobiology and Population Science, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA UK
| | - Sylvia F. A. Keijser
- Expertise Centre Genetics of Companion Animals, Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Åke Hedhammar
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Gregoire Leroy
- AgroParisTech, UMR 1313 Génétique Animale et Biologie Intégrative, F-75231 Paris, France
- INRA, UMR 1313 Génétique Animale et Biologie Intégrative, F-78352 Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Aimée Llewellyn-Zaidi
- International Partnership for Dogs, c/o Svenska Kennelklubben, Rinkebysvängen 70, SE-163 85 Spånga, Sweden
| | - Sofia Malm
- Svenska Kennelklubben, Box 771, SE-19127 Sollentuna, Sweden
| | - Patricia N. Olson
- Affiliate Faculty, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523 USA
| | - Rowena M. A. Packer
- Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA UK
| | - Jean Francois Rousselot
- Clinique vétérinaire du Clos des Camélias, 72 Bd Charles de Gaulle, F 92701 Colombes, France
| | | | - Jason W. Stull
- Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210 USA
| | - Brenda N. Bonnett
- International Partnership for Dogs, c/o Svenska Kennelklubben, Rinkebysvängen 70, SE-163 85 Spånga, Sweden
- International Partnership for Dogs, Georgian Bluffs, Ontario Canada
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