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Metcalf L, Lomax S, Van der Saag D, Garg S, White PJ. Pain Relief Interventions in Australian Livestock Husbandry: A Review of Animal Welfare and Pain Duration. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1901. [PMID: 38998013 PMCID: PMC11240665 DOI: 10.3390/ani14131901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
In veterinary medicine and livestock production, ensuring good animal husbandry is vital for the physical and emotional wellbeing of animals under our care. Pain poses challenges for assessment and mitigation, especially in species unable to express pain overtly. This review examines current pain mitigation interventions in routine husbandry, focuses on the duration of pain after procedures and implications for animal welfare. Pain behaviours have been observed for days or weeks after regular husbandry procedures, and many studies have noted pain-related behaviour persisting until study finalisation, suggesting potential undocumented pain beyond study completion. Current products registered in Australia for pain mitigation in livestock primarily target immediate pain associated with procedures. The future of pain relief in livestock demands longer-acting solutions to address post-procedural pain adequately. Providing pain relief for at least 72 h post surgery is recommended, but current products require retreatment intervals to achieve this, posing practical challenges, especially in livestock. Methods of pain relief provision, such as voluntary consumption of medicated feed, transdermal medication delivery and long-acting formulations offer potential solutions for prolonged pain relief, with research ongoing in these areas. There is a need for further research and development of longer-acting pain relief to ensure optimal welfare of livestock.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee Metcalf
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia; (D.V.d.S.); (P.J.W.)
| | - Sabrina Lomax
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia;
| | - Dominique Van der Saag
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia; (D.V.d.S.); (P.J.W.)
| | - Sanjay Garg
- UniSA Clinical & Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia;
| | - Peter J. White
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia; (D.V.d.S.); (P.J.W.)
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Reedman CN, Duffield TF, DeVries TJ, Lissemore KD, Winder CB. Graduate Student Literature Review: Role of pain mitigation on the welfare of dairy calves undergoing disbudding. J Dairy Sci 2022; 105:6809-6819. [PMID: 35688730 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2021-21349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
This review synthesizes research findings on the pain and welfare of dairy calves undergoing disbudding procedures. We describe disbudding practices in North America as well as the use and perceptions of pain control for these procedures. Governing bodies across Canada and the United States, including each country's veterinary medical association and nationwide initiatives such as proAction and Farmers Assuring Responsible Management (FARM), recommend or require the use of a local anesthetic, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), and a sedative for disbudding procedures. Although the use of pain relief for disbudding has increased over the past decade or so, some in the dairy industry still do not believe that pain control for disbudding is necessary. As a painful procedure, disbudding has numerous welfare impacts on the calf both during and following the procedure that can be categorized under all 3 principles of animal welfare: natural living, biological functioning, and affective state. The use of pain control for disbudding; namely, a local anesthetic and NSAID, can improve welfare outcomes such as procedure-induced pain behavior, cortisol concentrations, mechanical nociceptive threshold, emotional states, and so on, compared with no pain control for the procedure. Although extensive research exists on pain control practices for disbudding, this review identified further gaps in knowledge and areas for future research. Mechanical nociceptive threshold can be evaluated around the disbudding wounds and is a reliable test in older calves; however, this outcome in very young calves after caustic paste disbudding has been reported to be inconclusive compared with that in older calves. As well, research evaluating xylazine sedation for disbudding has reported both potentially positive and negative results that are difficult to interpret or base suggestions on for the use of this drug. Finally, wounds caused by disbudding take a long time to heal (up to 13 wk) and have increased sensitivity for the entire healing process. Therefore, future research should aim to (1) determine accurate behavioral tests for calves under 1 wk of age undergoing disbudding to better understand their experience, (2) further attempt to understand the effects of xylazine sedation for disbudding and potential impacts of providing this medication, and (3) determine more ways to reduce the healing time and pain experienced by the calf after disbudding procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassandra N Reedman
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1 Canada.
| | - Todd F Duffield
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1 Canada
| | - Trevor J DeVries
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1 Canada
| | - Kerry D Lissemore
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1 Canada
| | - Charlotte B Winder
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1 Canada
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Röder M, Heuwieser W, Borchardt S, Plenio J, Palme R, Sutter F. The effect of transdermal flunixin meglumine on blood cortisol levels in dairy calves after cautery disbudding with local anesthesia. J Dairy Sci 2022; 105:3468-3476. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2021-21257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Verdon M. A review of factors affecting the welfare of dairy calves in pasture-based production systems. ANIMAL PRODUCTION SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.1071/an21139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Current research on factors affecting the welfare of dairy calves is predominantly based on indoor, year-round calving systems. Calf rearing in these systems differs from that in more seasonal, pasture-based dairy production, meaning that risks to the welfare of dairy calves may not always be comparable between the two systems. The aim of this review was to consolidate the scientific literature relating to calf welfare in pasture-based dairy systems from birth until weaning, allowing for (1) the identification of current and emerging risks to calf welfare and (2) the formation of recommendations to mitigate these risks. Many of the risks to calf welfare discussed in this review are not exclusive to pasture-based dairies. This includes a global trend for increasing perinatal mortalities, a significant number of calves failing to achieve effective passive transfer of immunity, the low uptake of best practice pain relief when calves are disbudded, and the feeding of restricted milk volumes. In addition to these persisting welfare risks, two factors discussed in this review pose an immediate threat to the social license of dairy farming; the separation of cow and calf soon after birth and the management of surplus calves (i.e. calves not needed by the dairy industry). Several recommendations are made to improve the uptake of best-practice calf rearing and progress the development of alternative pasture-based rearing systems that accommodate changing community expectations. These include communication strategies that strengthen farmer beliefs regarding the welfare and productivity benefits achieved by best practice calf rearing and challenge beliefs regarding the associated costs. Farmers should also be encouraged to benchmark their rearing practices through improved record keeping of key rearing inputs and outcomes. Biological research is needed to advise the development of new calf rearing recommendations and the evolution of existing recommendations. Research priorities identified by this review include the effects of dystocia on the neonate and strategies to mitigate these effects, relationships between features of pen design and calf health and welfare, feasibility of dam rearing in large pasture-based dairy systems, and strategies that increase the value of the surplus calf.
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Proposed multidimensional pain outcome methodology to demonstrate analgesic drug efficacy and facilitate future drug approval for piglet castration. Anim Health Res Rev 2021; 22:163-176. [PMID: 34859764 DOI: 10.1017/s1466252321000141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Castration of male piglets in the United States is conducted without analgesics because no Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved products are labeled for pain control in swine. The absence of approved products is primarily due to a wide variation in how pain is measured in suckling piglets and the lack of validated pain-specific outcomes individually indistinct from other biological responses, such as general stress or inflammation responses with cortisol. Simply put, to measure pain mitigation, measurement of pain must be specific, quantifiable, and defined. Therefore, given the need for mitigating castration pain, a consortium of researchers, veterinarians, industry, and regulatory agencies was formed to identify potential animal-based outcomes and develop a methodology, based on the known scientific research, to measure pain and the efficacy of mitigation strategies. The outcome-based measures included physiological, neuroendocrine, behavioral, and production parameters. Ultimately, this consortium aims to provide a validated multimodal methodology to demonstrate analgesic drug efficacy for piglet castration.Measurable outcomes were selected based on published studies suggesting their validity, reliability, and sensitivity for the direct or indirect measurement of pain associated with surgical castration in piglets. Outcomes to be considered are observation of pain behaviors (i.e. ethogram defined behaviors and piglet grimace scale), gait parameters measured with a pressure mat, infrared thermography of skin temperature of the cranium and periphery of the eye, and blood biomarkers. Other measures include body weight and mortality rate.This standardized measurement of the outcome variable's primary goal is to facilitate consistency and rigor by developing a research methodology utilizing endpoints that are well-defined and reliably measure pain in piglets. The resulting methodology will facilitate and guide the evaluation of the effectiveness of comprehensive analgesic interventions for 3- to 5-day-old piglets following surgical castration.
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Martin MS, Kleinhenz MD, Viscardi AV, Curtis AK, Johnson BT, Montgomery SR, Lou ME, Coetzee JF. Effect of bupivacaine liposome suspension administered as a cornual nerve block on indicators of pain and distress during and after cautery dehorning in dairy calves. J Dairy Sci 2021; 105:1603-1617. [PMID: 34802729 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2021-21004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Dehorning is performed on a high percentage of dairies worldwide. Concern about the negative effect of dehorning on animal welfare has contributed to the development of new guidelines that require the use of pain management at the time of disbudding in the United States. However, livestock producers are limited in how to address this requirement due to a lack of (1) approved analgesic drugs, (2) analgesic options that control pain for an extended duration, and (3) analgesic formulations that are practical for producers to administer. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of bupivacaine liposome suspension, a novel, long-acting, local anesthetic formulation administered as a nerve block at dehorning, compared with current industry standard analgesic approaches using lidocaine nerve blocks alone or in combination with the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug meloxicam. Fifty male Holstein calves, 10 to 14 wk of age, were enrolled and randomly assigned to 1 of 5 treatment groups before cautery dehorning as follows: (1) bupivacaine liposome suspension block, oral placebo (BUP); (2) lidocaine block, oral placebo (LID); (3) lidocaine block, oral meloxicam (1 mg/kg of body weight; LID + MEL); (4) saline block, oral placebo (CON); and (5) saline block, oral placebo, sham dehorn (SHAM). Biomarkers were collected from 0 to 120 h postdehorning and included infrared thermography, mechanical nociceptive threshold (MNT), pressure mat gait analysis, chute defense and behavior scoring, and blood sampling for serum cortisol and prostaglandin E2 metabolites. Responses were analyzed using repeated measures with calf nested in treatment designated as a random effect, and treatment, time, and their interaction designated as fixed effects. At 2 h postdehorning, the BUP group had a higher MNT compared with the CON group. Furthermore, at 24 h postdehorning, the BUP group had a higher MNT compared with the LID group. Gait distance differed significantly between treatment groups; the CON, LID, and LID + MEL groups had an increased gait distance relative to the SHAM group. The CON group exhibited a higher chute defense behavior score during the dehorning procedure compared with all other treatments. Furthermore, the CON group exhibited more ear flicks than the BUP and LID + MEL groups postdehorning. At 4 h and 24 h after dehorning, the LID + MEL group had a lower average prostaglandin E2 metabolites concentration compared with all other treatment groups. These data showed that administration of bupivacaine liposome suspension as a cornual nerve block at the time of dehorning was as effective at controlling pain as a multimodal approach of lidocaine and meloxicam.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam S Martin
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan 66506
| | - Michael D Kleinhenz
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan 66506.
| | - Abbie V Viscardi
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan 66506
| | - Andrew K Curtis
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan 66506
| | - Blaine T Johnson
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan 66506
| | - Shawnee R Montgomery
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan 66506
| | - Maria E Lou
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan 66506
| | - Johann F Coetzee
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan 66506.
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Trujanovic R, Otero PE, Larenza Menzies MP, Gasparik‐Küls N. Development of a lateral ultrasound‐guided approach for the radial, ulnar, median and musculocutaneous (RUMM) nerve block in a calf undergoing surgical fixation of the antebrachium. VETERINARY RECORD CASE REPORTS 2020. [DOI: 10.1136/vetreccr-2020-001281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Trujanovic
- Department of Anaesthesia and Perioperative Intensive CareVeterinary University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - Pablo E Otero
- Anesthesiology DepartmentVeterinary Science FacultyUniversity of Buenos AiresBuenos AiresArgentina
| | | | - Nina Gasparik‐Küls
- Department of Anaesthesia and Perioperative Intensive CareVeterinary University of ViennaViennaAustria
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Adcock SJJ, Cruz DM, Tucker CB. Behavioral changes in calves 11 days after cautery disbudding: Effect of local anesthesia. J Dairy Sci 2020; 103:8518-8525. [PMID: 32564957 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2020-18337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Hot-iron disbudding results in painful burn wounds that take weeks to heal. Spontaneous behaviors indicative of pain are apparent in the immediate hours after disbudding, but whether they occur later in the healing process is unknown. To evaluate whether ongoing pain was present around the time the necrotic tissue loosens from the scalp, we tested the effect of administration of local anesthetic 11 d after the procedure. Disbudded female Holstein and Jersey calves (n = 24) were randomly assigned to receive an injection of local anesthetic (lidocaine) or saline at the cornual nerve on both sides of the head. We recorded the frequency of 8 behaviors for 75 min: head shakes, head rubs, head scratches, ear flicks, tail flicks, bucks/jumps/kicks, grooming, and transitions between standing and lying. Calves treated with lidocaine shook their heads less and tended to flick their ears less than calves administered saline, consistent with the effects of pain relief previously reported in the immediate hours after disbudding. These calves also rubbed their head against the sides of the pen more often, suggesting lidocaine suppressed wound protective behavior. Head shaking and head scratching became more common in the last 25 min compared with the first 50 min in calves treated with lidocaine, consistent with the return of sensation to the disbudding wounds. No treatment differences in the other behaviors were observed. These results suggest that calves experience ongoing pain 11 d after hot-iron disbudding, adding to a growing body of evidence that pain persists for weeks after the procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J J Adcock
- Center for Animal Welfare, Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis 95616; Animal Behavior Graduate Group, University of California, Davis 95616
| | - Danielle M Cruz
- Center for Animal Welfare, Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis 95616
| | - Cassandra B Tucker
- Center for Animal Welfare, Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis 95616.
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The Effect of Topical Anaesthesia on the Cortisol Responses of Calves Undergoing Dehorning. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10020312. [PMID: 32079225 PMCID: PMC7070772 DOI: 10.3390/ani10020312] [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] [Received: 02/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Dehorning in cattle involves the manual removal of horns which causes acute pain. Although the long-term solution to removing horns is to breed polled cattle, limitations include the complex inheritance for polled Brahman cattle, and negative interactions with productivity in dairy cattle. Best practice pain relief in the form of a local nerve block, a sedative and a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug prior to the procedure usually requires a veterinarian and may be impractical for some cattle production systems. Improved livestock welfare requires a practical and cost-effective pain relief strategy for dehorning that can be readily adopted commercially. We evaluated a modified topical local anaesthetic wound formulation that can be applied by farmers immediately following dehorning. While previous studies have demonstrated a reduction in wound sensitivity, there was no effect on cortisol concentrations. It is likely that the cortisol response reflects a combination of factors including the stress of handling, the initial pain of the dehorning procedure and haemorrhage. Abstract Dehorning causes pain and distress to cattle, and there is a need to provide effective and practical analgesia to improve animal welfare. We conducted an experiment to determine the effect of a modified post-operative topical wound management formulation containing two local anaesthetics (TA) on the plasma cortisol concentration (PCC) of scoop-dehorned calves. Two months old Holstein-Friesian heifer calves (n = 30) were randomly allocated to sham dehorning control (CON), scoop dehorning (D), or scoop dehorning with immediate post-operative application of the TA (DTA). Blood samples were obtained via jugular venepuncture prior to sham or actual dehorning, and 40 min, 1.5, 4 and 24 h later. PCC changed significantly over time (p < 0.01). There was a trend for lower PCC in DTA calves compared to D calves (p = 0.09), with the PCC area under the curve lowest in CON calves as compared to D and DTA calves (p = 0.02). Cortisol concentrations were similar between D and DTA at all time points. The TA did not reduce cortisol concentrations up to 24 h following treatment and the cortisol response likely reflects the pain induced by the procedure, the effect of handling and restraint, and haemorrhaging which limited adherence of the TA actives. A multimodal analgesic approach, as assessed through multiple pain indicators, should be the focus of future work.
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Vidondo B, Stettler S, Stojiljkovic A, Mogel H, Gaschen V, Spadavecchia C, Casoni D, Stoffel MH. Assessment of potential neuropathic changes in cattle after cautery disbudding. Res Vet Sci 2019; 126:9-16. [PMID: 31419617 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2019.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Revised: 07/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/02/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Disbudding of calves is a standard husbandry procedure to reduce the risk of injuries to other cattle and to workers. Whereas acute pain resulting from disbudding has been studied extensively, little is known about chronic pain as a potential long-term consequence. The goal of the present study was to investigate possible morphological changes in the cornual nerve as a function of disbudding. Samples were collected from 17 randomly selected bulls and from 21 calves from a prospective clinical study. Among the calves, 13 were disbudded and 8 were sham-disbudded. Out of the disbudded calves, 4 showed signs of chronic pain. In all the animals, the infraorbital nerve was used as a methodological check. Morphological analysis included measuring minimal diameters of the axons present in both the cornual and infraorbital nerves. Sympathetic fibers were identified as based on the presence of Tyroxine hydroxylase (TH). TH-negative fibers were considered afferents. Trigeminal ganglia from the calves were immunostained for glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and Activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3). R. cornualis and N. infraorbitalis differed in terms of axon diameters and proportion of TH-positive fibers. Weak evidence (p > .091) of a difference in axon diameters between control and disbudded calves was found in R. cornualis, but the proportion of TH-positive fibers was alike in both groups. Average glial envelope and the percentages of ATF3-positive neurons revealed no difference between calves with and without signs of pain. Thus, available evidence is insufficient to support neuropathic changes as a result of disbudding in calves.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Vidondo
- Veterinary Public Health Institute, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, POB 3350, CH - 3001 Bern, Switzerland
| | - S Stettler
- Division of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, POB 3350, CH - 3001 Bern, Switzerland
| | - A Stojiljkovic
- Division of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, POB 3350, CH - 3001 Bern, Switzerland.
| | - H Mogel
- Division of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, POB 3350, CH - 3001 Bern, Switzerland.
| | - V Gaschen
- Division of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, POB 3350, CH - 3001 Bern, Switzerland.
| | - C Spadavecchia
- Division of Veterinary Anesthesia, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, POB 3350, CH - 3001 Bern, Switzerland.
| | - D Casoni
- Division of Veterinary Anesthesia, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, POB 3350, CH - 3001 Bern, Switzerland.
| | - M H Stoffel
- Division of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, POB 3350, CH - 3001 Bern, Switzerland.
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Van der Saag D, Lomax S, Windsor PA, Taylor C, White PJ. Evaluating treatments with topical anaesthetic and buccal meloxicam for pain and inflammation caused by amputation dehorning of calves. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0198808. [PMID: 29897950 PMCID: PMC5999227 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0198808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2017] [Accepted: 05/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
To assess the effects of a topical anaesthetic (TA) and buccal meloxicam (BM) on behaviour, maximum wound temperature and wound morphology following amputation dehorning of beef calves, 50 unweaned Hereford calves were randomly allocated to: (1) sham dehorning / control (CON, n = 14); (2) amputation dehorning (D, n = 12); (3) amputation dehorning with pre-operative buccal meloxicam (DBM, n = 12); and (4) amputation dehorning with post-operative topical anaesthetic (DTA, n = 12). Videos of the calves were captured for 3 h following treatment. Each calf was later observed for 5 min every hour and the frequency and duration of specific behaviours displayed during these focal periods was recorded. Infrared and digital photographs of dehorning wounds were collected from all dehorned calves on days 1, 3 and 7 following treatment. Infrared photographs were used to identify the maximum temperature within the wound area. Digital photographs were used to score wounds based on visual signs of inflammation and healing, using a numerical rating scale of 1 to 3, with morphological aspects of inflammation increasing and morphological aspects of healing decreasing with progressive scores. CON calves displayed fewer head shakes than all dehorned calves at 2 and 3 h following treatment (P = 0.025). CON and DTA calves displayed less head turns than DBM calves at 2 h following treatment (P = 0.036). CON calves displayed fewer combined point behaviours than all dehorned calves at 2 h following treatment (P = 0.037). All dehorning wounds had a greater maximum temperature on days 3 and 7 compared to day 1 (P = 0.003). All wound morphology scores decreased from day 1 to day 3 and wound morphology scores of DBM and DTA calves increased from day 3 to day 7 (P = 0.03). Although flystrike may have confounded these observations, no clear effects of TA or BM on behaviour, maximum wound temperature or wound morphology following dehorning of calves were observed. Further research is required to evaluate the analgesic efficacy of these products for amputation dehorning of calves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominique Van der Saag
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Sabrina Lomax
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Peter Andrew Windsor
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Casey Taylor
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Peter John White
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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12
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McCarthy D, Windsor PA, Harris C, Lomax S, White PJ. Effect of Topically Applied Anaesthetic Formulation on the Sensitivity of Scoop Dehorning Wounds in Calves. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0163181. [PMID: 27648948 PMCID: PMC5029898 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0163181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2016] [Accepted: 09/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The post-operative effects of three formulations of topical anaesthetic and a cornual nerve block on the sensitivity of scoop dehorning wounds in calves were compared in two trials. In Trial 1, 21 female Holstein dairy calves aged 8 to 24 weeks were randomly allocated to two groups: (1) scoop dehorning with a post-operative application of a novel topical anaesthetic powder (DTAP, n = 10); and (2) scoop dehorning with a post-operative application of a novel topical anaesthetic ethanol liquid (DTAE, n = 11). In Trial 2, 18 castrated male and 18 female Hereford beef calves aged 16 to 20 weeks were randomly allocated to four groups: (1) scoop dehorning with a pre-operative cornual nerve block of lignocaine (DCB, n = 9); (2) scoop dehorning with a post-operative application of the novel topical anaesthetic ethanol liquid from Trial 1 (DTAE, n = 9); (3) scoop dehorning with a post-operative application of a topical anaesthetic gel (DTAG, n = 9); and (4) sham dehorning (CON, n = 9). Sensitivity was assessed by scoring the behavioural response of calves to stimulation of the wound or skin at time points before and after treatment. In Trial 1, DTAP calves had a greater probability of displaying more severe responses than DTAE calves at 90 and 180 min (P < 0.001). In Trial 2, at 1 h, DTAG calves had a greater probability of displaying more severe responses than CON calves. At 2 h onwards, all dehorned calves had a greater probability of displaying more severe responses than CON calves (P < 0.001). There were no differences between the responses of DCB, DTAG and DTAE calves at any time point. Topical anaesthetic formulations result in almost immediate but temporary anaesthesia of the wound following scoop dehorning in calves and may provide a practical option for pain relief on-farm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominique McCarthy
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Peter Andrew Windsor
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Charissa Harris
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Sabrina Lomax
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Peter John White
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Espinoza CA, McCarthy D, White PJ, Windsor PA, Lomax SH. Evaluating the efficacy of a topical anaesthetic formulation and ketoprofen, alone and in combination, on the pain sensitivity of dehorning wounds in Holstein-Friesian calves. ANIMAL PRODUCTION SCIENCE 2016. [DOI: 10.1071/an14012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a topically applied local anaesthetic and the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug ketoprofen, alone and in combination, on the pain sensitivity response of calves to dehorning (mean age 2.2 months). Calves were randomly allocated and blocked by age to one of four groups. Groups were: scoop dehorning (D, n = 8), scoop dehorning + i.m. administration of 3 mg/kg ketoprofen (DK, n = 8), scoop dehorning + application of topical anaesthetic (DTA, n = 7) and scoop dehorning + application of topical anaesthetic and i.m. administration of ketoprofen (DKTA, n = 7). A pressure algometer was used to determine the mechanical nociceptive threshold (MNT), being the pressure (kg/f) at which calves withdrew from the stimulus. Measurements were taken before dehorning and at 1 min, 1, 2, 5 and 24 h post-dehorning at both the cut skin edge of the wound and the peri-wound area. The effect of treatment changed over time (P < 0.001). MNT was highest before treatment (MNT = 5.03 kg/f) and tended to decrease over time (MNT = 1.16 kg/f 24 h post-treatment). Overall, D calves exhibited the lowest MNT with an average of 1.77 kg/f. DTA calves had the highest MNT (3.89 kg/f), followed closely by DKTA calves (3.24 kg/f). DK calves exhibited an intermediate MNT of 2.61 kg/f. MNT of the cut skin edge was generally lower than that of the peri-wound area (2.01 vs 3.81 kg/f, respectively, P = 0.02).The topical anaesthetic formulation significantly reduced the pain sensitivity of dehorning wounds. There was no observed enhanced analgesic effect with addition of ketoprofen. The cut skin edge was more sensitive to pressure than the peri-wound area.
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Cortisol and pain-related behavior in disbudded goat kids with and without cornual nerve block. Physiol Behav 2015; 138:58-61. [DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2014.10.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2014] [Revised: 07/21/2014] [Accepted: 10/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Allen KA, Coetzee JF, Edwards-Callaway LN, Glynn H, Dockweiler J, KuKanich B, Lin H, Wang C, Fraccaro E, Jones M, Bergamasco L. The effect of timing of oral meloxicam administration on physiological responses in calves after cautery dehorning with local anesthesia. J Dairy Sci 2013; 96:5194-205. [PMID: 23746590 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2012-6251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2012] [Accepted: 04/17/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Dehorning is a painful husbandry procedure that is commonly performed in dairy calves. Parenteral meloxicam combined with local anesthesia mitigates the physiological and behavioral effects of dehorning in calves. The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of timing of oral meloxicam administration on physiological responses in calves after dehorning. Thirty Holstein bull calves, 8 to 10 wk of age (28-70 kg), were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 treatment groups: placebo-treated control group (n=10), calves receiving meloxicam administered orally (1 mg/kg) in powdered milk replacer 12h before cautery dehorning (MEL-PRE; n=10), and calves receiving meloxicam administered as an oral bolus (1 mg/kg) at the time of dehorning (MEL-POST; n=10). Following cautery dehorning, blood samples were collected to measure cortisol, substance P (SP), haptoglobin, ex vivo prostaglandin E2 (PgE2) production after lipopolysaccharide stimulation and meloxicam concentrations. Maximum ocular temperature and mechanical nociceptive threshold (MNT) were also assessed. Data were analyzed using noncompartmental pharmacokinetic analysis and repeated measures ANOVA models. Mean peak meloxicam concentrations were 3.61±0 0.21 and 3.27±0.14 μg/mL with average elimination half-lives of 38.62±5.87 and 35.81±6.26 h for MEL-PRE and MEL-POST, respectively. Serum cortisol concentrations were lower in meloxicam-treated calves compared with control calves at 4 h postdehorning. Substance P concentrations were significantly higher in control calves compared with meloxicam-treated calves at 120 h after dehorning. Prostaglandin E2 concentrations were lower in meloxicam-treated calves compared with control calves. Mechanical nociceptive threshold was higher in control calves at 1h after dehorning, but meloxicam-treated calves tended to have a higher MNT at 6h after dehorning. No effect of timing of meloxicam administration on serum cortisol concentrations, SP concentrations, haptoglobin concentrations, maximum ocular temperature, or MNT was observed. However, PgE2 concentrations in MEL-PRE calves were similar to control calves after 12h postdehorning, whereas MEL-POST calves had lower PgE2 concentrations for 3 d postdehorning. These findings support that meloxicam reduced cortisol, SP, and PgE2 after dehorning, but only PgE2 production was significantly affected by the timing of meloxicam administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- K A Allen
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas 66506, USA
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Espinoza C, Lomax S, Windsor P. The effect of a topical anesthetic on the sensitivity of calf dehorning wounds. J Dairy Sci 2013; 96:2894-902. [PMID: 23477817 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2012-5954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2012] [Accepted: 01/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The objective was to determine the effect of a topical local anesthetic on the sensitivity of dehorning wounds in calves. Thirty 2-mo-old Holstein-Friesian calves were randomly allocated to sham dehorning control (CON), scoop dehorning without treatment with topical anesthetic (SnoTA), or scoop dehorning with an application of a topical anesthetic (STA). Sensitivity was measured by providing mechanical stimulation to the dehorned wound and peri-wound area using von Frey monofilaments calibrated at 10 and 300 g. Calf responses were categorized as absent, minor, moderate, or severe. Sensitivity measurements were performed before treatment and at various time points up to 24h posttreatment. Sham dehorned calves displayed unchanging absent or minor responses to stimulation. Regardless of whether topical anesthetic was applied, scoop dehorned calves were more likely to display minor, moderate, or severe responses than sham dehorned control calves, and responses tended to be most extreme at 4h postdehorning. Calves in the STA group tended to be less likely to display minor, moderate, or severe responses than calves in the SnoTA group at most time points (exception at 4h postdehorning). Responses were significantly more likely to be less severe in STA calves than in SnoTA calves at 40 min and 1.5h following dehorning. Thus, the use of the topical anesthetic for calves reduced the short-term sensitivity of scoop dehorning wounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Espinoza
- The University of Sydney, Private Bag 4003 Narellan, New South Wales 2567, Australia
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Glynn HD, Coetzee JF, Edwards-Callaway LN, Dockweiler JC, Allen KA, Lubbers B, Jones M, Fraccaro E, Bergamasco LL, KuKanich B. The pharmacokinetics and effects of meloxicam, gabapentin, and flunixin in postweaning dairy calves following dehorning with local anesthesia. J Vet Pharmacol Ther 2013; 36:550-61. [PMID: 23473342 DOI: 10.1111/jvp.12042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2012] [Accepted: 01/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Approved analgesic compounds in cattle are not currently available in the United States due to the lack of validated pain assessment methods and marker residue depletion studies. In this study, we compared the pharmacokinetic parameters and effect of preemptive analgesics administered to calves subjected to dehorning with local anesthesia. Holstein steers were randomly assigned to receive one of the following treatments per os (PO) or intravenously (IV) (n = 8/group): meloxicam (1 mg/kg PO), gabapentin (15 mg/kg PO), meloxicam (1 mg/kg), and gabapentin (15 mg/kg) PO, flunixin (2.2 mg/kg IV), or a placebo. Plasma drug, haptoglobin, substance P (SP) concentrations, serum cortisol concentrations, ocular thermography, mechanical nociceptive threshold (MNT), and average daily gain (ADG) were evaluated. Data were analyzed using mixed-effects models and noncompartmental pharmacokinetic analysis. Meloxicam, gabapentin, and meloxicam with gabapentin at the present doses did not reduce cortisol concentrations. Analgesic-treated calves had significantly lower plasma SP concentrations and improved ADG compared with controls. Flunixin calves had reduced circulating cortisol compared with controls. Meloxicam-treated calves showed an increase in MNT at two horn bud sites compared with the other treatments. Analgesics improved ADG and reduced biomarkers of pain, but effects differed by compound and route of administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- H D Glynn
- Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, USA
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Stock ML, Baldridge SL, Griffin D, Coetzee JF. Bovine Dehorning. Vet Clin North Am Food Anim Pract 2013; 29:103-33. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cvfa.2012.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
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Ajadi RA, Owanikin AO, Martins MM, Gazal OS. Effect of epidural tramadol and lignocaine on physiological and behavioural changes in goats subjected to castration with a high tension band. N Z Vet J 2012; 60:344-8. [PMID: 22905666 DOI: 10.1080/00480169.2012.696576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM To compare the effect of a single epidural injection of either lignocaine or tramadol on behavioural changes, anaesthetic indices, leucocyte parameters, erythrocyte sedimentation rates and concentration of cortisol in plasma in goats subjected to castration by high tension band. METHODS Ten male goats weighing 14.4 (SD 0.7) kg were randomly allocated to anaesthesia with epidural injections of tramadol (3 mg/kg), or lignocaine (4 mg/kg). Following anaesthesia, a rubber ring was applied and tensioned to the scrotal neck of each goat. Behavioural changes were noted as they occurred, and the onset of drug action (time between epidural injection and loss of pedal reflex) and duration of antinociception (time interval between disappearance and reappearance of pedal withdrawal reflex) were determined. Hearts rates, respiratory rates and rectal temperatures were determined every 15 minutes for a 90-minute period, while blood was obtained for determination of white cell counts, erythrocyte sedimentation rates and concentrations of cortisol. Anaesthetic indices were compared using Student's t-test, while physiological parameters were compared using an ANOVA for repeated measurements. RESULTS Goats treated with epidural tramadol were not recumbent and continued rumination while goats treated with epidural lignocaine were recumbent and did not continue rumination. The onset of analgesia was longer (p=0.01) in goats treated with epidural tramadol (5.0 minutes; SD 1.2) than goats treated with epidural lignocaine (3.0 minutes; SD 1.1), while duration of analgesia was shorter (p=0.003) in goats treated with epidural tramadol (47.2 minutes; SD 13.1) than goats treated with epidural lignocaine (89.8 minutes; SD 23.1). There was no significant difference in heart rates, respiratory rates and erythrocyte sedimentation rates, while the concentration of cortisol in plasma differed (p<0.05) between goats treated with epidural tramadol and lignocaine. CONCLUSIONS Epidural lignocaine injection produced longer duration of antinociception with lower frequency of pain-associated behavioural changes; while treatment with epidural tramadol injection allowed the goats to continue grazing once the rubber ring has been applied. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Epidural tramadol produced partial pain relief, while epidural lignocaine injection provided the most effective pain control. However, epidural tramadol has an advantage over epidural lignocaine in conditions such as perineal surgery and caesarian section in cattle and where the ability of the animal to maintain standing is desired.
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Affiliation(s)
- R A Ajadi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria.
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Offinger J, Meyer H, Fischer J, Kästner SBR, Piechotta M, Rehage J. Comparison of isoflurane inhalation anaesthesia, injection anaesthesia and high volume caudal epidural anaesthesia for umbilical surgery in calves; metabolic, endocrine and cardiopulmonary effects. Vet Anaesth Analg 2012; 39:123-36. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-2995.2011.00698.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Stafford KJ, Mellor DJ. Addressing the pain associated with disbudding and dehorning in cattle. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2011.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Abstract
There is a legal requirement to provide analgesia for velvet antler removal in New Zealand. Currently, this is achieved using local anaesthetic blockade, with or without systemically administered sedative/analgesic agents, or by compression in 1-year-old stags. Lignocaine hydrochloride 2% is most commonly used and is most effective when administered as a high-dose ring block. Combinations of various amino-amide local anaesthetic agents can achieve rapid onset and prolonged duration of analgesia, though concerns about drug residues and carcinogenic potential of a lignocaine metabolite have led to consideration of the amino-ester family of local anaesthetics as alternatives. Systemically administered analgesics, including opioids, alpha-2-adrenergic agents and ketamine provide dose-dependent sedation and analgesia. However, none are sufficient, alone or in combination, to produce surgical analgesia at currently recommended dose rates and when reversal agents are given, analgesic effects are usually reversed as well as sedation. Thus, local anaesthetic blockade is still indicated, though the potential for drug or drug-metabolite residues in velvet antler remains a concern. The need for and effectiveness of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for post-operative analgesia requires investigation. Amitriptyline, locally administered opioid agonists, tramadol and other systemically administered agents may warrant future investigation for surgical and post-operative analgesia for velvet antler removal.
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Affiliation(s)
- V P Walsh
- Institute of Veterinary Animal and Biomedical Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 11222, Palmerston North, New Zealand.
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Alvarez L, Nava RA, Ramírez A, Ramírez E, Gutiérrez J. Physiological and behavioural alterations in disbudded goat kids with and without local anaesthesia. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2009.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Heinrich A, Duffield T, Lissemore K, Squires E, Millman S. The impact of meloxicam on postsurgical stress associated with cautery dehorning. J Dairy Sci 2009; 92:540-7. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2008-1424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Boesch D, Steiner A, Gygax L, Stauffacher M. Burdizzo castration of calves less than 1-week old with and without local anaesthesia: Short-term behavioural responses and plasma cortisol levels. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2008.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Doherty TJ, Kattesh HG, Adcock RJ, Welborn MG, Saxton AM, Morrow JL, Dailey JW. Effects of a concentrated lidocaine solution on the acute phase stress response to dehorning in dairy calves. J Dairy Sci 2007; 90:4232-9. [PMID: 17699042 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2007-0080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to more fully define the surgical stress response to dehorning by heat cauterization in dairy calves by measuring behavioral, hormonal, inflammatory, and immunological markers of stress and to determine whether a nerve block of the surgical site with a concentrated solution of lidocaine (5%) reduces the degree of stress. Thirty-two 10- to 12-wk-old female Holstein calves were randomly allotted to 1 of 4 treatments: 5% lidocaine followed by dehorning, 2% lidocaine followed by dehorning, saline followed by dehorning, or 5% lidocaine followed by sham dehorning. Plasma cortisol concentration was measured in blood samples collected via a jugular catheter at -0.5, 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 6, 9, 12, 24, 48, and 72 h. Various other blood constituents were measured in samples collected at -0.5, 12, 24, 48, and 72 h. Feeding, drinking, scratching, grooming, rubbing, licking, and inactivity behaviors were observed in the standing and recumbent positions using a 10-min scan sampling method analyzed on a time period and daily basis for 72 h following the dehorning procedure. The frequency of vocalization, kicking, and lying in the chute during the dehorning procedure were also assessed. The overall plasma cortisol concentrations were higher in calves subjected to dehorning than in control calves. Compared with the control group, the saline-treated calves had a higher cortisol concentration at 30 and 60 min postdehorning. Plasma cortisol concentrations were higher in all groups at 30 min postdehorning than at other sampling times. The percentage of circulating neutrophils and the neutrophil:lymphocyte ratio were increased in the saline and 2% lidocaine group. Total plasma protein, fibrinogen, and alpha1-acid glycoprotein concentrations were similar among treatments. The behavioral response to dehorning, as manifested by kicking while in the chute, was greater in the saline and 2% lidocaine group than in the control or 5% lidocaine treatment groups. In the postdehorning period, the percentage of time calves spent performing various maintenance behaviors did not differ among treatments. Thus, injection of 5% lidocaine may not provide any added comfort after the dehorning but may decrease the overall stress response during the procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- T J Doherty
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, The University of Tennessee, College of Veterinary Medicine, Knoxville 37996, USA
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Gibson TJ, Johnson CB, Stafford KJ, Mitchinson SL, Mellor DJ. Validation of the acute electroencephalographic responses of calves to noxious stimulus with scoop dehorning. N Z Vet J 2007; 55:152-7. [PMID: 17676078 DOI: 10.1080/00480169.2007.36760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
AIM To validate use of the electroencephalogram (EEG) and a minimal anaesthesia model for assessment of noxious sensory input caused by scoop dehorning of calves. METHODS Twenty Friesian heifers weighing 125-178 kg were maintained under light general anaesthesia using halothane and an established protocol (minimal anaesthesia model). They were then dehorned using a scoop dehorner either with (DH+LA) or without (DH) a lignocaine ring block, and changes in the EEG and electrocardiogram (ECG) recorded. Median frequency (F50), 95% spectral edge frequency (F95) and total power (Ptot) were derived from the EEG data. RESULTS There were significant increases in the F50 (p<0.01) and F95 (p<0.01), and a decrease in Ptot (p<0.01) following dehorning in the DH group, but there were no changes in the DH+LA group. Transient bradycardia in the first 75 sec following dehorning was recorded in the DH group compared with both pre-treatment values in the same group and with the DH+LA group (p<0.001). Tachycardia was evident by 15 min after dehorning in the DH but not the DH+LA group. CONCLUSIONS The results validate use of the EEG and a minimal anaesthesia model for assessment of noxious sensory inputs in cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- T J Gibson
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, Massey University, Private Bag 11222, Palmerston North, New Zealand.
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Melches S, Mellema SC, Doherr MG, Wechsler B, Steiner A. Castration of lambs: a welfare comparison of different castration techniques in lambs over 10 weeks of age. Vet J 2006; 173:554-63. [PMID: 16527503 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2006.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/14/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Seventy male lambs over 10 weeks of age were castrated using Burdizzo, rubber rings, or surgery to assess the acute and long-term effects of castration. All castrations were performed under local anaesthesia. The surgically castrated lambs were additionally sedated with xylazine and the sedation reversed with tolazoline. The frequency of abnormal postures and immediate behavioural responses indicated that surgically castrated lambs were most distressed; the lambs castrated using Burdizzo and rubber rings were not dissimilar to those of the control group. Between 1.5 and 9h after castration, signs of pain and distress were at a lower level in lambs anaesthetised with bupivacaine compared with those treated with lidocaine. Due to the markedly faster wound healing, Burdizzo castration seemed to be preferable (fewer signs of long-term pain) when compared to the rubber ring technique. It was concluded that local anaesthesia with bupivacaine, followed by the Burdizzo method is the preferable technique for the castration of lambs older than 10 weeks of age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Melches
- Clinic for Ruminants, Vetsuisse-Faculty of Berne, Bremgartenstrasse 109a, Postfach 8466, 3001 Berne, Switzerland.
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Affiliation(s)
- David E Anderson
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
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Stafford KJ, Mellor DJ, Todd SE, Ward RN, McMeekan CM. The effect of different combinations of lignocaine, ketoprofen, xylazine and tolazoline on the acute cortisol response to dehorning in calves. N Z Vet J 2005; 51:219-26. [PMID: 16032330 DOI: 10.1080/00480169.2003.36370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The aims of this study were (a) to evaluate the effect of xylazine and tolazoline, with and without lignocaine, on the cortisol response of calves following amputation dehorning and (b) to assess the effect of a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (ketoprofen) and local anaesthesia on the cortisol response of calves to amputation dehorning. METHODS Plasma cortisol concentrations were measured in 100 dehorned or non-dehorned 3-month-old calves over an 8-h period following five different sedative/analgesic or control treatments. Sedative/analgesic treatments were: control (no anaesthesia); local anaesthesia and ketoprofen; local anaesthesia and xylazine; local anaesthesia, xylazine and tolazoline; and xylazine only. Within each sedative/analgesic treatment group, half the calves (n=10 per group) were amputation dehorned and half were not dehorned. RESULTS The change in plasma cortisol concentrations in calves dehorned after being given ketoprofen and local anaesthesia did not differ significantly from that of non-dehorned control calves for at least 8 h. In contrast, the cortisol response of dehorned calves not given analgesic drugs peaked 30 min after dehorning and lasted >4 h. Xylazine injected before dehorning significantly reduced but did not eliminate the peak of the cortisol response. When both xylazine and local anaesthesia were administered before dehorning the peak in the cortisol response was virtually eliminated. In the dehorned calves that received xylazine with or without local anaesthesia, cortisol concentration increased significantly 3 h after dehorning and did not return to baseline until at least 5 h later. When tolazoline was administered shortly after xylazine, it caused a marked cortisol response, higher than the response to any other treatment. CONCLUSIONS Combining ketoprofen and local anaesthesia minimised the cortisol response, and by inference the pain-induced distress, following amputation dehorning in calves. Xylazine reduced the initial cortisol response to dehorning but not as much as when local anaesthesia was also given. The increase in cortisol concentration from 3-8 h after dehorning in calves given xylazine alone or in combination with local anaesthesia suggests that calves experienced pain-induced distress during this time and that xylazine had no long-term analgesic effect. Tolazoline, used to reverse the sedative effects of xylazine, caused a marked cortisol response in calves via a mechanism which remains unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- K J Stafford
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, Institute of Veterinary Animal and Biomedical Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 11222, Palmerston North, New Zealand.
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Abstract
This paper reviews published data on welfare aspects of stag restraint and velvet antler removal, and prevention of antler growth. Several studies of physical restraint and handling demonstrate behavioural and physiological changes both during and after velvet antler removal. Interpretations vary as to whether the act of velvet antler removal imposes a welfare cost additional to that of handling and restraint alone. Chemical restraint presents immediate and delayed welfare risks to the animal. Surgical removal of velvet antler can be achieved without acute pain using a high dose rate of local anaesthetic applied as a ring block, rather than as regional nerve blocks, provided the wait time is adequate. However, there is evidence of less than optimum reproducibility. Lignocaine hydrochloride produces rapid analgesia of short duration, whilst bupivacaine has a delayed onset, but longer duration of analgesia. Mepivacaine has a rapid onset and intermediate duration of analgesia. Mixtures of long and short-acting local anaesthetics provide rapid onset and long duration of analgesia. Present methods for electronic analgesia are aversive and not sufficiently effective. The efficacy and possible aversiveness of compression techniques for inducing analgesia of antlers are currently under evaluation. Post-operative pain and the need for its control have been insufficiently researched. Post-operative sequelae are uncommon, but include clostridial infection. Antler growth in most stags can be prevented by rubber-band application to the growing pedicle, although behavioural changes after ring application suggest this practice may be painful. The procedures used for velvet antler removal, and whether practices are acceptable on the balance of welfare costs and benefits, should be reviewed on an ongoing basis as science, using an increasing range of techniques and measures, provides more data about the welfare implications of this practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- P R Wilson
- Institute of Veterinary Animal and Biomedical Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 11222, Palmerston North, New Zealand.
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Sylvester SP, Stafford KJ, Mellor DJ, Bruce RA, Ward RN. Behavioural responses of calves to amputation dehorning with and without local anaesthesia. Aust Vet J 2005; 82:697-700. [PMID: 15977616 DOI: 10.1111/j.1751-0813.2004.tb12162.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the pain elicited by amputation dehorning and evaluate the effect of local anaesthesia by using changes in calf behaviour. METHODS The behaviour of 6-month-old Friesian calves (n = 60), subjected to control handling, dehorned or dehorned after local anaesthesia treatment, was monitored in this study. The proportion of calves displaying particular behaviours was recorded using instantaneous scan sampling during the first 10 h and between 26 and 29 h after treatment. RESULTS The three behaviours of tail flicking, head shaking and ear flicking displayed similar features with time according to treatment and appeared to occur in an inverse relation to rumination. Dehorned calves were highly restless for the first 6 h after treatment. A significantly greater proportion of them displayed tail flicking, head shaking and ear flicking than the control calves, which, by contrast, stood still and ruminated (P < 0.05). The behaviour of calves given local anaesthetic prior to dehorning was similar to that of the control calves for the first 2 h. Thereafter the proportion of calves displaying tail flicking, head shaking and ear flicking increased, rumination decreased, and the behaviour was similar to that of the dehorned calves. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that dehorning is a painful experience that lasts about 6 h and that local anaesthetic alleviates that pain during its period of action. It is recommended that local anaesthetic be administered when conducting amputation dehorning.
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Affiliation(s)
- S P Sylvester
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, College of Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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Abstract
Based on the available literature, the most important tool available in modern veterinary medicine is preemptive analgesia. Veterinarians must capture "opportunities" to prevent the onset of pain, prevent noxious stimuli or their perception, and limit the pain-stress-distress cascade that results in altered behavior and deviation from physiologic norms. Rational treatment of pain requires an appreciation of its consequences, a fundamental understanding of the mechanisms that are responsible for its production,and a practical appreciation of the analgesic drugs that are available. The goal of pain treatment should be to restore normal (physiologic) pain responses and to eliminate pathologic pain processes. In this context, pain therapy should be directed at the multiple mechanisms (multimodal therapy)responsible for its production, and analgesic therapies should be instituted before (preemptive therapy) pain is initiated (eg, surgery) whenever possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- David E Anderson
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, 601 Tharp Street, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
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Stafford KJ, Mellor DJ. Dehorning and disbudding distress and its alleviation in calves. Vet J 2005; 169:337-49. [PMID: 15848777 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2004.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/15/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Dehorning and disbudding are routine painful procedures carried out on cattle to facilitate management. The pain caused by these procedures and its alleviation may be evaluated by monitoring behaviour and physiological responses, and by measuring their effects on weight gain. The cortisol response to cautery disbudding is significantly smaller than that to amputation dehorning which infers that the latter is more painful. Amputation dehorning stimulates a defined cortisol response with a rapid rise to a peak value within 30 min followed by a decline to a plateau which then declines to pre-treatment values after about 8 h. A cornual nerve blockade using lignocaine virtually eliminates the escape behaviour seen during disbudding and dehorning and reduces the plasma cortisol response to dehorning for about 2 h. Thereafter there is an increase in the plasma cortisol concentration, a delayed response, which lasts for about 6 h. A cornual nerve blockade, using lignocaine combined with cauterizing the wound caused by amputation dehorning, virtually eliminates the cortisol response as does combining a lignocaine blockade with the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) ketoprofen. When xylazine is combined with a cornual nerve blockade using lignocaine before dehorning, the cortisol response is virtually eliminated for about 3 h. When this regime is used before cautery disbudding and includes a NSAID given before and after disbudding the behaviour of calves so treated suggests that pain may be alleviated for 24 h. Cautery disbudding is preferable to amputation dehorning, but for optimal pain relief xylazine sedation, local anaesthesia and a NSAID should be used with both procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- K J Stafford
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, Institute of Veterinary Animal and Biomedical Sciences, College of Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.
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Sutherland MA, Mellor DJ, Stafford KJ, Gregory NG, Bruce RA, Ward RN. Cortisol responses to dehorning of calves given a 5-h local anaesthetic regimen plus phenylbutazone, ketoprofen, or adrenocorticotropic hormone prior to dehorning. Res Vet Sci 2002; 73:115-23. [PMID: 12204628 DOI: 10.1016/s0034-5288(02)00005-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this work was to assess whether the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) phenylbutazone and ketoprofen, and an adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) induced cortisol surge, reduce the cortisol response which occurs when the local anaesthetic wears off in calves following dehorning. There were four control groups and one dehorned group; also four groups were given local anaesthetic lasting 5h and were dehorned without or with phenylbutazone, ketoprofen or an ACTH injection, one group was injected with ACTH twice (at 0 and 6h) and another received ACTH and 6h later was dehorned. Blood samples were taken before and after dehorning and plasma cortisol concentrations were determined by radio-immunoassay. Dehorning increased the mean plasma cortisol concentrations [max 137 (11)nmoll(-1)] above control values [38 (5)nmoll(-1)] for about 7h, whereas local anaesthesia maintained concentrations at control values until about 5h after dehorning, and then they became elevated until about 10h. The maximum rise in mean concentration which occurred when the local anaesthetic wore off [128 (32)nmoll(-1)] was not affected when phenylbutazone was given before dehorning [141 (28)nmoll(-1)], but was reduced significantly when ketoprofen [65 (17)nmoll(-1)] or ACTH [61 (19)nmoll(-1)] were injected before or at the time of dehorning, respectively. Marked cortisol responses to ACTH injected at 0 and 6h were similar, but the early part of the cortisol response to dehorning 6h after an ACTH injection was reduced. It is suggested that the delayed cortisol response, which began 5h after dehorning, arose both from ketoprofen-sensitive and cortisol-sensitive sensory input as well as from other factors. Phenylbutazone did not affect the sensory input from the amputation wounds in the present calves.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Sutherland
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, College of Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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Mellor DJ, Stafford KJ, Todd SE, Lowe TE, Gregory NG, Bruce RA, Ward RN. A comparison of catecholamine and cortisol responses of young lambs and calves to painful husbandry procedures. Aust Vet J 2002; 80:228-33. [PMID: 12054287 DOI: 10.1111/j.1751-0813.2002.tb10820.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM To compare the changes in plasma concentrations of noradrenaline, adrenaline and cortisol in lambs after ring castration plus tailing and in calves after dehorning with or without prior local anaesthesia. METHODS Male lambs were castrated and tailed with rings and calves were dehorned by amputation using a scoop with or without prior local anaesthesia. Blood samples were taken before and after treatment and plasma concentrations of noradrenaline, adrenaline and cortisol were determined. RESULTS Castration plus tailing of lambs resulted in a rapid increase in noradrenaline concentrations, a lack of an adrenaline response and a marked increase in cortisol concentration. There were similar changes in catecholamine concentrations in calves that were dehorned both with and without local anaesthetic, with adrenaline being elevated within 5 min of treatment and noradrenaline exhibiting a more protracted response. Dehorning caused a marked cortisol increase which was reduced to control concentrations by local anaesthesia for as long as the associated nerve blockade lasted. CONCLUSIONS The very short-lived adrenaline responses in calves were attributed to dehorning-induced nociceptor input leading to sympathetic stimulation of the adrenal medulla. The longer lasting noradrenaline responses in lambs and calves were thought be due to 'wash-out' of noradrenaline from damaged tissue associated with rings and amputation wounds, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- D J Mellor
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, College of Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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Sutherland MA, Mellor DJ, Stafford KJ, Gregory NG, Bruce RA, Ward RN. Effect of local anaesthetic combined with wound cauterisation on the cortisol response to dehorning in calves. Aust Vet J 2002; 80:165-7. [PMID: 12019704 DOI: 10.1111/j.1751-0813.2002.tb11385.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To reassess whether local anaesthesia before dehorning and wound cauterisation after dehorning eliminates the cortisol response to dehorning. METHODS A control group was compared with three dehorned groups (dehorned alone, dehorned after local anaesthesia, dehorned after local anaesthesia then cautery of the amputation wounds). The local anaesthetic regimen used produced nerve blockade for about 5 h. Blood samples were taken before and after dehorning and plasma cortisol concentrations were determined. RESULTS Dehorning caused a marked cortisol response lasting for about 7 h. Local anaesthetic reduced the plasma cortisol concentrations to control values for 5 h, after which they increased for a further 5 h. Subsequently in both groups, cortisol concentrations remained at control values until at least 24 h after treatment. Local anaesthetic combined with wound cautery virtually abolished the cortisol response until at least 24 h after dehorning. CONCLUSION Combining local anaesthesia with cautery of the amputation wounds substantially reduced the cortisol response until at least 24 h after dehorning.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Sutherland
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, College of Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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Affiliation(s)
- K J Stafford
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, Institute of Veterinary Animal and Biomedical Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 11222, Palmerston North, New Zealand.
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Mellor DJ, Stafford KJ. Integrating practical, regulatory and ethical strategies for enhancing farm animal welfare. Aust Vet J 2001; 79:762-8. [PMID: 11789912 DOI: 10.1111/j.1751-0813.2001.tb10895.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To provide an integrated view of relationships between assessment of animal welfare. societal expectations regarding animal welfare standards, the need for regulation, and two ethical strategies for promoting animal welfare, emphasising farm animals. APPROACH Ideas in relevant papers and key insights were outlined and illustrated, where appropriate, by New Zealand experience with different facets of the welfare management of farm animals. CONCLUSIONS An animal's welfare is good when its nutritional, environmental, health, behavioural and mental needs are met. Compromise may occur in one or more of these areas and is assessed by scientifically-informed best judgement using parameters validated by directed research and objective analysis in clinical and practical settings. There is a wide range of perceptions of what constitutes good and bad welfare in society, so that animal welfare standards cannot be left to individual preferences to determine. Rather, the promotion of animal welfare is seen as requiring central regulation, but managed in a way that allows for adjustments based on new scientific knowledge of animals' needs and changing societal perceptions of what is acceptable and unacceptable treatment of animals. Concepts of 'minimal welfare', representing the threshold of cruelty, and 'acceptable welfare', representing higher, more acceptable standards than those that merely avoid cruelty, are outlined. They are relevant to economic analyses, which deal with determinants of animal welfare standards based on financial costs and the desire of the public to feel broadly comfortable about the treatment of the animals that are used to serve their needs. Ethical strategies for promoting animal welfare can be divided broadly into the 'gold standard' approach and the 'incremental improvement' approach. The first defines the ideal that is to be required in a particular situation and will accept nothing less than that ideal, whereas the second aims to improve welfare in a step-wise fashion by setting a series of achievable goals, seeing each small advance as worthwhile progress towards the same ideal. 'Incremental improvement' is preferred. This also has application in veterinary practice where the professional commitment to maintain good welfare standards may at times conflict with financial constraints experienced by clients.
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Affiliation(s)
- D J Mellor
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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Hughan SC, Loose JM, Caddy DJ, Canny BJ, Tilbrook AJ, Young IR. Combined xylazine and ketamine as an analgesic regimen in sheep. Aust Vet J 2001; 79:207-11. [PMID: 11301750 DOI: 10.1111/j.1751-0813.2001.tb14582.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether low dose xylazine with ketamine reduces the concentrations of cortisol and prolactin in sheep postoperatively and to characterise the effects of the drugs on behaviour during recovery. DESIGN Analysis of variance was used to compare the effects of anaesthesia, surgery and combined ketamine/xylazine treatment on the plasma cortisol and prolactin concentrations and on behavioural variables in pregnant ewes subjected to abdominal surgery. PROCEDURE Twelve ewes were randomly assigned to receive either ketamine/xylazine or placebo in association with anaesthesia and surgery. Both groups of ewes underwent anaesthesia alone followed a week later by anaesthesia with laparotomy and hysterotomy. Plasma cortisol and prolactin concentrations were assayed during these procedures and for 5 days afterwards. Behavioural observations were made remotely during recovery from anaesthesia and anaesthesia plus surgery. RESULTS The concentrations of cortisol in the plasma of pregnant ewes undergoing surgery were increased by preoperative handling and the onset of thiopentone/halothane anaesthesia, with a further increase during surgery (P = 0.033). Cortisol concentrations decreased over the first four postoperative hours (P = 0.029) and were normal by 24 h. The drug treatment did not affect the immediate responses of ewes to anaesthesia or surgery, although treated ewes had lower cortisol concentrations than saline-treated controls over the first five postoperative days (P = 0.018). Prolactin concentrations increased in response to anaesthesia (P = 0.047), but were not affected by surgery or the drug treatment. Drug-treated ewes had prolonged sleeping time after surgery (P = 0.002), but they took no longer to stand than saline-treated controls and required fewer attempts to stand successfully (P = 0.025). CONCLUSION At the doses used, ketamine and xylazine did not mitigate the immediate endocrine consequences of surgery but the behavioural data provide a basis for further investigations that may lead to improvements in analgesic treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- S C Hughan
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168
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Abstract
We investigated behavioral responses after dehorning and a sham procedure in 20 Holstein calves aged 4 to 8 wk. Calves either received a nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (ketoprofen) before dehorning as well as 2 and 7 h after the procedure or were assigned to a control group. All calves received a sedative (xylazine) and local anaesthetic (lidocaine) before dehorning, and responses were scored over 24 h after the procedure. After hot-iron dehorning, calves treated with ketoprofen also demonstrated little head shaking or ear flicking, but control animals demonstrated higher frequencies of these behaviors; both responses peaked 6 h after dehorning. Differences between the treatment groups remained statistically significant until 12 h (head shaking) and 24 h (ear flicking) after dehorning. A low frequency of head rubbing was observed in both treatment groups, but control calves were more frequently observed engaged in this behavior. There was no statistically significant effect of treatment on any of the other behavioral measures. Calves treated with ketoprofen also tended to gain more weight (1.2+/-0.4 kg) during the 24 h after dehorning than did control calves (0.2+/-0.4 kg). There was no effect of treatment on any of the response variables when calves were sham dehorned. These results indicate that ketoprofen mitigates pain after hot-iron dehorning in young dairy calves.
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Affiliation(s)
- P M Faulkner
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Centre for Applied Ethics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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Wilson PR, Thomas DG, Stafford KJ, Mellor DJ. Routes and doses of lignocaine hydrochloride for analgesia of the velvet antler of stags. N Z Vet J 1999; 47:167-74. [PMID: 16032097 DOI: 10.1080/00480169.1999.36137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
AIM To evaluate the effectiveness of various routes of administration and doses of local anaesthetic to provide analgesia of the velvet antler of young stags. METHODS In study 1, in which an electrical stimulus was used, 64 l-year-old male red and red X wapiti deer with velvet antler lo-30 cm long, were randomly allocated to one of ten treatments with four treatments/animal, and 23 or 24 antlers/treatment. Treatments delivered included three control groups, three local anaesthetic (2% lignocaine HCL) doses delivered by ring block (5, 10 or 15 ml per pedicle), and a high or low regional block with or without an auriculopalpebral nerve block (5 ml per site). An electrical stimulus was applied before and 1,2,4 and 8 minutes after local anaesthetic treatments and to controls, at an increasing voltage until a response was observed. The voltage and animal responses were recorded. In Study 2 the same seven local anaesthetic treatments (16-I 8 antlers/treatment) were evaluated using 58 of the stags from Study 1 when antlers were ready for removal, but a saw cut was used as the test stimulus. A test cut was applied to the antler I,2 and 4 minutes after application of local anaesthetic. If no response was observed, the antler was removed at that time. RESULTS In Study 1, major dose and treatment effects were significantly different (p < 0.05) with the outcome variable being whether or not the deer responded. No stags given the high dose ring block responded to electrical stimulation 1 minute after treatment, one responded at 2 minutes, and none responded at 4 or 8 minutes. At least one animal responded after all other treatments at all time intervals. More deer responded after the low regional block than the high regional block, and there was a lower response rate when the auriculopalpebral nerves were anaesthetised. In Study 2, no deer responded 2 minutes after the medium dose ring block treatment. Three of 18 stags receiving the high dose ring block still responded after 2 minutes, and one responded after 4 minutes. Responses occurred to all other treatments at each time, with some deer requiring further administration of local anaesthetic before antler removal, even with the four minute waiting period. CONCLUSION Ring blocks produced more consistent analgesia of the velvet antler than regional nerve blocks. The high dose ring block produced analgesia faster and more effectively than lower doses, and the regional nerve blocks were more effective when the auriculopalpebral nerve was blocked.
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Affiliation(s)
- P R Wilson
- Institute of Veterinary Animal and Biomedical Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 11222, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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McMeekan CM, Stafford KJ, Mellor DJ, Bruce RA, Ward RN, Gregory NG. Effects of regional analgesia and/or a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory analgesic on the acute cortisol response to dehorning in calves. Res Vet Sci 1998; 64:147-50. [PMID: 9625471 DOI: 10.1016/s0034-5288(98)90010-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The effect of using a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory analgesic (ketoprofen) on the plasma cortisol response in calves dehorned with or without regional analgesia was determined. One hundred calves divided into 10 groups, four control and six dehorned, were used. Blood samples were taken before and after dehorning and plasma cortisol concentrations were measured. Dehorning caused a marked rise in plasma cortisol concentrations which returned to pretreatment levels after seven hours. The animals given ketoprofen before dehorning had a cortisol response similar to the dehorned animals for the first 1.3 hours after dehorning but then the plasma cortisol concentration returned to pretreatment levels. When animals were given a regional analgesic and ketoprofen the plasma cortisol concentrations were similar to control animals which had not been dehorned, with a small increase in plasma cortisol concentrations for the first hour after dehorning and then a rapid return to pretreatment values. This response was significantly lower than that seen in calves which received only regional analgesia. The results of this study suggest that a systemic analgesic should be combined with regional analgesia if the distress associated with dehorning is to be abolished.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M McMeekan
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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