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Colitti K, Mitchell M, Langford F. Sheep fatigue during transport: Lost in translation? Anim Welf 2024; 33:e13. [PMID: 38510418 PMCID: PMC10951664 DOI: 10.1017/awf.2024.13] [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: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Although sheep are commonly transported long distances, and sheep welfare during transport is a topic of research and policy discussion, the subject of their fatigue during transport has been under-researched. The current qualitative study, focused on the EU and UK, aimed to critically analyse stakeholder views on issues relating to sheep fatigue, including behavioural indications of fatigue, the interplay between fatigue and other factors, and the practicalities of identifying fatigue in commercial transport conditions. Insight into stakeholder perceptions of these issues could contribute to the body of knowledge regarding sheep fatigue during transport, potentially playing a part in future efforts to improve fatigue understanding and detection. Eighteen experts from different stakeholder groups were interviewed. Reflexive thematic analysis of interview data yielded four themes and three sub-themes. The first theme, "Let's anthropomorphise it a little bit", underscores the pervasiveness of anthropomorphism and suggests using it in a conscious and deliberate way to drive stakeholder engagement and policy change. The second theme, "We think that they're like we are and they're not", cautions against wholesale transfer of human experiences to animals. The third theme, 'See the whole animal', advocates using Qualitative Behaviour Analysis (QBA), proven reliable in other contexts, to deepen and enrich our current understanding of fatigue. The fourth theme, 'Fatigue "never comes up"', highlights the fact that fatigue is rarely if ever discussed in the context of sheep transport. These themes suggest several avenues for future research, including developing QBA-based assessments for fatigue to improve welfare during transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katia Colitti
- The University of Edinburgh, Royal Dick School of Veterinary Studies, Roslin, Midlothian, UK
| | | | - Fritha Langford
- Newcastle University, School of Natural and Environmental Science, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
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Tüfekci H, Sejian V. Stress Factors and Their Effects on Productivity in Sheep. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2769. [PMID: 37685033 PMCID: PMC10486368 DOI: 10.3390/ani13172769] [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: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Products obtained from sheep have an economically important place in the world. Their adaptability to different climatic conditions, their ease of care and feeding, their high utilization of poor pasture areas with low yield and quality, the ease of flock management, their high twinning rate, and their short intergenerational period are some of the advantages of sheep production. Sheep production has the ability to adapt better to environmental stress factors, as can be understood from the presence of sheep in different geographical regions at a global level. However, the changes in environmental conditions and production cause some negative results in animals. All these negative results expose animals to various stress factors (heat, cold, transport, treatment, nutritional, shearing, weaning, etc.). All stress factors that directly and indirectly affect sheep production ultimately lead to compromised performance, decreased productivity, increased mortality, and adverse effects on the immune system. In order to cope with the current stress parameters in animals and to achieve optimum production, a holistic approach is needed according to the environmental conditions and available resources. It is important to consider the factors involved in these responses in order to manage these processes correctly and to develop adequate strategies and improve sheep welfare. This review aimed to reveal the importance of some stress factors in sheep and their effects on sheep productivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hacer Tüfekci
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Yozgat Bozok University, Yozgat 66100, Turkey
| | - Veerasamy Sejian
- Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Veterinary Education and Research, Kurumbapet, Pondicherry 605009, India;
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Nielsen SS, Alvarez J, Bicout DJ, Calistri P, Canali E, Drewe JA, Garin-Bastuji B, Gonzales Rojas JL, Gortázar Schmidt C, Michel V, Miranda Chueca MÁ, Padalino B, Pasquali P, Roberts HC, Spoolder H, Stahl K, Velarde A, Viltrop A, Winckler C, Earley B, Edwards S, Faucitano L, Marti S, Miranda de La Lama GC, Nanni Costa L, Thomsen PT, Ashe S, Mur L, Van der Stede Y, Herskin M. Welfare of small ruminants during transport. EFSA J 2022; 20:e07404. [PMID: 36092764 PMCID: PMC9449987 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2022.7404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In the framework of its Farm to Fork Strategy, the Commission is undertaking a comprehensive evaluation of animal welfare legislation. The present Opinion deals with the protection of small ruminants (sheep and goats) during transport. The main focus is on welfare of sheep during transport by road but other means of transport and concerns for welfare of goats during transport are also covered. Current practices related to transport of sheep during the different stages (preparation, loading and unloading, transit and journey breaks) are described. Overall, 11 welfare consequences were identified as being highly relevant for the welfare of sheep during transport based on severity, duration and frequency of occurrence: group stress, handling stress, heat stress, injuries, motion stress, predation stress, prolonged hunger, prolonged thirst, restriction of movement, resting problems and sensory overstimulation. These welfare consequences and their animal-based measures are described. A wide variety of hazards, mainly relating to inappropriate or aggressive handling of animals, structural deficiencies of vehicles and facilities, unfavourable microclimatic and environmental conditions and poor husbandry practices, leading to these welfare consequences were identified. The Opinion contains general and specific conclusions in relation to the different stages of transport. Recommendations to prevent hazards and to correct or mitigate welfare consequences have been developed. Recommendations were also developed to define quantitative thresholds for microclimatic conditions within the means of transport and spatial thresholds (minimum space allowance). The development of welfare consequences over time were assessed in relation to maximum journey time. The Opinion covers specific animal transport scenarios identified by the European Commission relating to the export of sheep by livestock vessels, export of sheep by road, roll-on-roll-off vessels and 'special health status animals', and lists welfare concerns associated with these.
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Nielsen SS, Alvarez J, Bicout DJ, Calistri P, Canali E, Drewe JA, Garin‐Bastuji B, Gonzales Rojas JL, Gortázar Schmidt C, Herskin M, Miranda Chueca MÁ, Padalino B, Pasquali P, Roberts HC, Spoolder H, Stahl K, Velarde A, Viltrop A, Winckler C, Candiani D, Rapagnà C, Van der Stede Y, Michel V. Welfare of sheep and goats at slaughter. EFSA J 2021; 19:e06882. [PMID: 34765030 PMCID: PMC8573542 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2021.6882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The killing of sheep and goats 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 sheep and goats until their death (including slaughtering without stunning), were grouped into three main phases: pre-stunning (including arrival, unloading from the truck, lairage, handling and moving of sheep and goats); stunning (including restraint); and bleeding. Stunning methods were grouped into two categories: mechanical and electrical. Twelve welfare consequences that sheep and goats may experience during slaughter were identified: heat stress, cold stress, fatigue, prolonged thirst, prolonged hunger, impeded movement, restriction of movements, resting problems, social stress, pain, fear and distress. These welfare consequences and their relevant animal-based measures are described in detail in this Scientific Opinion. In total, 40 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 39 hazards, which were attributed to the lack of appropriate skill sets needed to perform tasks or to fatigue. Measures to prevent and correct hazards were identified, and structural and managerial measures were identified as those with a crucial role in prevention. Outcome tables linking hazards, welfare consequences, animal-based measures, origin of hazards and preventive and corrective measures were developed for each process. Mitigation measures to minimise welfare consequences are proposed.
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Carnovale F, Xiao J, Shi B, Kaart T, Arney D, Phillips CJC. The Effects of Vehicle Type, Transport Duration and Pre-Transport Feeding on the Welfare of Sheep Transported in Low Temperatures. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11061659. [PMID: 34199657 PMCID: PMC8227339 DOI: 10.3390/ani11061659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Low temperatures can provide a risk to the welfare of sheep during transport because of increased ventilation chilling the sheep, and we examined the importance of three factors-covering the vehicle, duration of transport, and feeding prior to transport-on the welfare of sixty transported 4-month-old Dorper × Mongolian female sheep in a cold climate. Sheep in a covered vehicle had greater increases in head and ear temperatures than those in an open vehicle. Sheep transported for 2 h increased their leg temperatures, whereas those transported for 1 h had reduced leg temperatures. Increases in non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in the blood samples during the long transport suggested that sheep had more muscular and metabolic activity, compromising their well-being. Feeding prior to transport did not affect body temperatures, but those not fed prior to transport had reduced alanine transferase, HSP and cortisol in their blood, whereas those that were fed had reduced NEFAs, LDH and creatine kinase. Prior feeding had no effect on the sheep temperature indices over a two-hour transport period. Thus, the sheep most at risk of the adverse effects of cold temperatures were those transported in open vehicles, those transported for a longer time, and those not fed before transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Carnovale
- College of Animal Science, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, 306 Zhaowuda Road, Inner Mongolia, Hohhot 010018, China; (F.C.); (B.S.)
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 46, 51006 Tartu, Estonia; (T.K.); (D.A.)
| | - Jin Xiao
- College of Animal Science, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, 306 Zhaowuda Road, Inner Mongolia, Hohhot 010018, China; (F.C.); (B.S.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Binlin Shi
- College of Animal Science, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, 306 Zhaowuda Road, Inner Mongolia, Hohhot 010018, China; (F.C.); (B.S.)
| | - Tanel Kaart
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 46, 51006 Tartu, Estonia; (T.K.); (D.A.)
| | - David Arney
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 46, 51006 Tartu, Estonia; (T.K.); (D.A.)
| | - Clive J. C. Phillips
- Curtin University Sustainability Policy (CUSP) Institute, Curtin University, PKent St., Bentley, WA 6102, Australia;
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The Welfare of Cattle, Sheep, Goats and Pigs from the Perspective of Traumatic Injuries Detected at Slaughterhouse Postmortem Inspection. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11051406. [PMID: 34069150 PMCID: PMC8156928 DOI: 10.3390/ani11051406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The occurrence of traumatic injuries was assessed in cattle, sheep, goats and pigs reared and slaughtered in the Czech Republic. For the purposes of the study, the results of veterinary postmortem examinations at slaughterhouses in the period from 2010 to 2019 were analyzed. In the studied animal species, findings of traumatic lesions were detected at low frequency. The low frequency of traumatic lesions is favorable from the perspective of the welfare of slaughtered animals. In terms of further improvements to animal welfare, it would be desirable to focus on the prevention of trauma in cattle in particular, in which findings of trauma were more frequent than in the other species studied. The category most affected by trauma both to the limbs and body was cows. Abstract The welfare of cattle, pigs, sheep and goats was assessed by measuring trauma detected during veterinary postmortem inspection at slaughterhouses. The subject of this evaluation were all bovine, porcine, ovine and caprine animals slaughtered at Czech slaughterhouses in the monitored period, i.e., a total of 1,136,754 cows, 257,912 heifers, 1,015,541 bulls, 104,459 calves, 586,245 sows, 25,027,303 finisher pigs, 123,191 piglets, 22,815 ewes, 114,264 lambs, 1348 does and 5778 kids. The data on the numbers of traumatic findings were obtained retrospectively from a national veterinary database collecting data from slaughterhouse postmortem examinations. The results showed that findings of trauma were observed at a low frequency in the studied species. Injuries were detected most frequently in cows (1.71%). In contrast, no findings associated with the presence of trauma were recorded in does and kids. From the viewpoint of trauma localization, findings on the limbs were more frequent than findings on the body (p < 0.01). The only exceptions to this were lambs, does and kids, for which there was no statistically significant difference between findings on the limbs and the body (p = 1.00). The results show that housing system (bedding, the presence of slats, floor hardness), transport of animals to the slaughterhouse (moving animals to the vehicle, loading ramps, floors in transport vehicles and the transport of animals itself) and design of the slaughterhouse (unloading ramps, passageways and slaughterhouse floors) have a greater impact on the limbs than the bodies of animals in the majority of species. A difference was also demonstrated in the occurrence of findings of trauma in the limbs and body (p < 0.01) between culled adult animals and fattened animals, namely in cattle and pigs. A difference (p < 0.01) between ewes and lambs was found only in the occurrence of traumatic injury to the limbs. The results showed that fattened animals are affected by the risk of trauma to a lesser extent than both culled adult animals and young animals. Statistically significant differences (p < 0.01) were also found between the studied species and categories of animals. The category most affected from the viewpoint of injury both to the limbs and body was cows. In contrast to cows that are typically reared indoors, the low frequency of traumatic findings was found in small ruminants and in bulls, i.e., animals typically reared outdoors. Assumedly, access to pasture may be beneficial considering the risk of traumatic injury.
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Understanding the Determination of Meat Quality Using Biochemical Characteristics of the Muscle: Stress at Slaughter and Other Missing Keys. Foods 2021; 10:foods10010084. [PMID: 33406632 PMCID: PMC7823487 DOI: 10.3390/foods10010084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite increasingly detailed knowledge of the biochemical processes involved in the determination of meat quality traits, robust models, using biochemical characteristics of the muscle to predict future meat quality, lack. The neglecting of various aspects of the model paradigm may explain this. First, preslaughter stress has a major impact on meat quality and varies according to slaughter context and individuals. Yet, it is rarely taken into account in meat quality models. Second, phenotypic similarity does not imply similarity in the underlying biological causes, and several models may be needed to explain a given phenotype. Finally, the implications of the complexity of biological systems are discussed: a homeostatic equilibrium can be reached in countless ways, involving thousands of interacting processes and molecules at different levels of the organism, changing over time and differing between animals. Consequently, even a robust model may explain a significant part, but not all of the variability between individuals.
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Early J, Aalders J, Arnott E, Wade C, McGreevy P. Sequential Analysis of Livestock Herding Dog and Sheep Interactions. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10020352. [PMID: 32098372 PMCID: PMC7070376 DOI: 10.3390/ani10020352] [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] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Although livestock herding dogs have contributed significantly to Australian agriculture, there are virtually no studies examining the interactions between dog and livestock during herding. One statistical approach that may assist our understanding of such interactions during herding is lag sequential analysis that reveals links between one event and the next. Using high-definition video recordings of herding in a yard-based competition trial and software to code the main dog and sheep behaviours, we identified several significant behavioural interactions. These included the dog ceasing all movement followed by the sheep also ceasing movement; the dog chasing the sheep and a group of sheep escaping the main flock; a single sheep escaping the flock and the dog chasing; sheep initiating movement followed by the dog following; foot-stamping followed by the dog ceasing all movement; and, foot-stamping by the sheep and the dog lip-licking in response. Further statistical analysis found no significant sex differences in the herding styles of the dogs included in the study. Of benefit to livestock herding dog handlers and breeders was the identification of trial score as a predictor of efficient performance. Abstract Livestock herding dogs are crucial contributors to Australian agriculture. However, there is a dearth of empirical studies of the behavioural interactions between dog and livestock during herding. A statistical approach that may reveal cause and effect in such interactions is lag sequential analysis. Using 48 video recordings of livestock herding dogs and sheep in a yard trial competition, event-based (time between behaviours is irrelevant) and time-based (time between behaviours is defined) lag sequential analyses identified several significant behavioural interactions (adjusted residuals greater than 2.58; the maximum likelihood-ratio chi-squared statistic for all eight contingency tables identified all sequences as highly significant (p < 0.001)). These sequences were: The dog ceasing all movement followed by the sheep also ceasing movement; the dog chasing the sheep and a group of sheep escaping the main flock; a single sheep escaping the flock and the dog chasing; sheep initiating movement followed by the dog following; foot-stamping followed by the dog ceasing all movement; and, foot-stamping by the sheep and the dog lip-licking in response. Log linear regression identified significant relationships among undesirable behaviours in sheep and both observed trial duration (p = 0.001) and trial score (p = 0.009). No differences in the herding styles of dogs were identified between sex of dog and frequency of sheep escape behaviours (p = 0.355) nor the sex of dog and competition level (p = 0.116). The identification of trial score as a predictor of efficient performance confirms the benefits of incorporating extant objective measures to assess livestock herding dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Early
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (J.A.); (E.A.); (P.M.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Jessica Aalders
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (J.A.); (E.A.); (P.M.)
| | - Elizabeth Arnott
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (J.A.); (E.A.); (P.M.)
| | - Claire Wade
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia;
| | - Paul McGreevy
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (J.A.); (E.A.); (P.M.)
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Collins T, Stockman CA, Barnes AL, Miller DW, Wickham SL, Fleming PA. Qualitative Behavioural Assessment as a Method to Identify Potential Stressors during Commercial Sheep Transport. Animals (Basel) 2018; 8:ani8110209. [PMID: 30445737 PMCID: PMC6262568 DOI: 10.3390/ani8110209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2018] [Revised: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 11/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Land transport is a common and unavoidable experience for most livestock, yet it remains a health and welfare concern. From the animals’ perspective, transport involves mixing with other animals, novel experiences, and prolonged standing, often after periods of water and feed withdrawal (‘curfews’). Although the physical effects of transport have been studied, often by the impact on meat quality, the effects on the mental well-being of sheep are unknown. The aim of this study was to identify factors that influence the behavioural expression of sheep undergoing land transport, using observers who were blinded to the experimental treatments to score the animal’s body language during land transport. Various vehicle crate types, deck positions, sheep breeds and point of origin were compared. All treatments were variations on current commercial transport, and therefore stocking density was similar between the vehicles as per regulatory requirements, but truck designs varied. This study supports using the scoring of behavioural expression to assess sheep welfare during transport. Abstract Land transport is an unavoidable experience for most livestock, yet there is limited research comparing animal welfare under different conditions. We video recorded sheep responses during short (2 h) commercial road transport journeys. Using Qualitative Behavioural Assessment, observers (blinded to the treatments) scored the behavioural expression of sheep and reached significant consensus in their scoring patterns (p < 0.001). There were also significant effects of vehicle crate design (sheep transported in a ‘standard’ crate were more calm/relaxed than those transported in a ‘convertible’ crate), deck position (sheep on upper decks were more curious/alert than those on lower decks), and sheep breed (fat-tail sheep were more agitated/distressed than merino sheep) on observer scores. We only found marginal differences for sheep originating from feedlot or saleyard. Significant effects of vehicle driver (included as a random factor in all but one of our analyses) suggest driving patterns contributed to demeanour of the sheep. Finally, the fourteen drivers who participated in the study were asked their opinions on livestock transport; none of the factors we tested were identified by drivers as important for sheep welfare during transport. This study supports the use of qualitative measures in transport and revealed differences that could inform truck design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Collins
- School of Veterinary & Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch WA 6150, Australia.
| | - Catherine A Stockman
- School of Veterinary & Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch WA 6150, Australia.
| | - Anne L Barnes
- School of Veterinary & Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch WA 6150, Australia.
| | - David W Miller
- School of Veterinary & Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch WA 6150, Australia.
| | - Sarah L Wickham
- School of Veterinary & Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch WA 6150, Australia.
| | - Patricia A Fleming
- School of Veterinary & Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch WA 6150, Australia.
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Gallo C, Tarumán J, Larrondo C. Main Factors Affecting Animal Welfare and Meat Quality in Lambs for Slaughter in Chile. Animals (Basel) 2018; 8:ani8100165. [PMID: 30262753 PMCID: PMC6210305 DOI: 10.3390/ani8100165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Revised: 09/23/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Consumers have become increasingly demanding about the quality of products of animal origin, particularly regarding animal welfare during production, transport, and slaughter. The aim of the present study was to review the factors affecting the welfare of lambs for slaughter in Chile and show the implications on meat quality. Rounding up and driving the lambs from the fields in large extensive production systems and long distance transport through difficult geographical routes affect the blood variable indicators of stress and reduces muscle glycogen reserves, increasing the risk of high pH of meat. In small farmer sheep production conditions there is a lack of appropriate installations for loading/unloading and deficiencies in vehicle structure specific for lambs; this together with the work of untrained handlers results in a high percentage of mortality and bruised carcasses, compared to European studies. These problems are common for other South American countries and should be addressed firstly by educating and training all the people involved in the lamb meat chain regarding animal welfare. In Chile there is legislation, ongoing since 2013, regarding the protection of animals during production, transport, and slaughter, including compulsory training of animal handlers and livestock transporters, which should improve animal welfare and meat quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Gallo
- Animal Science Institute, Faculty of Veterinary Science, OIE Collaborating Centre for Animal Welfare and Livestock Production Systems-Chile, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile.
| | - Juan Tarumán
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile.
| | - Cristian Larrondo
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile.
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Frisk M, Jonsson A, Sellman S, Flisberg P, Rönnqvist M, Wennergren U. Route optimization as an instrument to improve animal welfare and economics in pre-slaughter logistics. PLoS One 2018. [PMID: 29513704 PMCID: PMC5841668 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0193223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Each year, more than three million animals are transported from farms to abattoirs in Sweden. Animal transport is related to economic and environmental costs and a negative impact on animal welfare. Time and the number of pick-up stops between farms and abattoirs are two key parameters for animal welfare. Both are highly dependent on efficient and qualitative transportation planning, which may be difficult if done manually. We have examined the benefits of using route optimization in cattle transportation planning. To simulate the effects of various planning time windows and transportation time regulations and number of pick-up stops along each route, we have used data that represent one year of cattle transport. Our optimization model is a development of a model used in forestry transport that solves a general pick-up and delivery vehicle routing problem. The objective is to minimize transportation costs. We have shown that the length of the planning time window has a significant impact on the animal transport time, the total driving time and the total distance driven; these parameters that will not only affect animal welfare but also affect the economy and environment in the pre-slaughter logistic chain. In addition, we have shown that changes in animal transportation regulations, such as minimizing the number of allowed pick-up stops on each route or minimizing animal transportation time, will have positive effects on animal welfare measured in transportation hours and number of pick-up stops. However, this leads to an increase in working time and driven distances, leading to higher transportation costs for the transport and negative environmental impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikael Frisk
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology (IFM), Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- * E-mail:
| | - Annie Jonsson
- School of Bioscience, Skövde University, Skövde, Sweden
| | - Stefan Sellman
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology (IFM), Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | | | - Mikael Rönnqvist
- Département de génie mécanique, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Uno Wennergren
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology (IFM), Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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Sowińska J, Milewski S, Tański Z, Witkowska D, Ząbek K, Sobiech P, Mituniewicz T. The effect of dietary supplementation with β-1,3/1,6-D-glucan on stress parameters and meat quality in lambs. JOURNAL OF ANIMAL AND FEED SCIENCES 2017. [DOI: 10.22358/jafs/68050/2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Effect of driver behaviour, driving events and road type on the stability and resting behaviour of sheep in transit. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1017/s1357729800054631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
AbstractThe aim of this project was to examine the relationships between driver behaviour and driving events during a journey and the behavioural responses of sheep to these events. Driving style can have a major influence on the welfare of the animals by affecting the risk of injury and by disturbing the ability of the sheep to rest. Two drivers each drove groups of 10 sheep in a 5·5-tonne, single-deck, non-articulated livestock vehicle on five 7-h road journeys consisting of minor roads, main single carriageways and a motorway. The driver, the driver’s view through the windscreen, the speedometer and the sheep were video recorded. Differences in driving style were identified as differences in vehicle speed, rapid braking and the number of corners taken with high cornering g-force. Differences in driving style had a slight effect on the frequency of losses of balance by the sheep and a more significant effect on the degree of disturbance to the sheep and on their ability to rest during the journey. Losses of balance were common, but falls were rare. About 80% of the losses of balance could have been caused by driving events, such as acceleration, braking, stopping, cornering, gear changes and uneven road surfaces. Only about 22% of driving events were followed by a loss of balance. It is likely that driving events were also responsible for many interruptions to both lying behaviour and rumination. Clear benefits of motorway driving compared with single carriageway driving were fewer losses of balance, more lying down, more rumination and fewer disturbances amongst the sheep. This study provides evidence that would be useful for driver training and education to promote careful driving as a means of ensuring the welfare of animals in-transit. The quality of the journey experienced by sheep during transport is dependent upon a number of factors that can be influenced by the driver of the vehicle.
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Effect of diet supplementation with the addition of Saccharomyces cerevisiae upon stress response in slaughter lambs. ACTA VET BRNO 2016. [DOI: 10.2754/avb201685020177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The study included 2 groups of lambs (GL): control (C) and experimental (E) which since day 11 of life was receiving an addition of dried Saccharomyces cerevisiae preparation. At the age of 100 days, 12 lambs from each group were weaned from mothers for 12-h pre-slaughter fasting, and transported to a slaughter house. Blood was sampled for analyses: before weaning from mothers (BST 1), before and after transport (BST 2 and 3). Blood samples were assayed for: values of neutrophils and lymphocytes, N:L (neutrophils to lymphocytes ratio), cortisol and glucose. After 24-h chilling of lamb carcasses, musculus longissimus dorsi was subjected to measurements of final acidity (pH24) and colour (CIE Lab), and muscle samples were collected for evaluation of water absorption and shear force. The GL and BST had a significant effect on the N:L ratio. No significant differences were found in the cortisol concentration between groups of lambs. This indicator was significantly different in the analyzed blood sampling time (P < 0.01). In the entire period of pre-slaughter handling, in group C cortisol concentration increased × 8.5, whereas in group E it increased × 4.3 compared to the baseline value. In both groups, the study showed an increase (P < 0.01) in glucose concentration in BST 3 compared to BST 1 and BST 2. Meat of lambs from group E was characterized by lower (P < 0.05) values of pH24, WHC, SF, and indicator a*. The obtained results suggest the advisability of applying a preparation of dried brewer’s yeast in rearing slaughter lambs in order to strengthen their immunity and to alleviate effects of pre-slaughter stress.
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Effect of pre-slaughter handling, exercise and the presence of a dog on lamb welfare and meat quality. Animal 2016; 10:1360-7. [PMID: 26915456 DOI: 10.1017/s1751731116000197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Before slaughter, lambs may experience several stressors such as feed and water deprivation, handling and transport that have the potential to negatively impact welfare and meat quality. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of pre-slaughter handling, exercise and the presence of a dog on the behaviour and physiology of lambs and meat quality at slaughter. At 6 months of age, 60 lambs (n=20 lambs/replicate; three replicates) were allocated to one of the two treatment groups (n=30 lambs/treatment): low (LOW) intensive handling or high (HIGH) intensive handling. LOW lambs were moved short distances, quietly and without the use of a dog before transport. HIGH lambs were moved quickly, long distances and with a dog present before transport. Lamb behaviour (standing, lying, rumination and panting) was recorded for 1 h before (post-treatment) and after transport (post-transport), and for 30 min before slaughter (pre-slaughter). Blood samples were collected before (baseline), after transport (post-transport) and at exsanguination (at slaughter) to assess cortisol, lactate and non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) concentrations. At slaughter, lamb carcases (M. longissimus lumborum) were evaluated for pH levels, drip and cook loss, and tenderness. HIGH lambs spent more time standing (P<0.001) and panting (P<0.001) and less time lying (P<0.001) and ruminating (P<0.001) post-treatment than LOW lambs, but more (P<0.001) time ruminating post-transport. All lambs spent more time standing (P<0.001) and less time lying (P<0.001) and panting (P<0.001) post-transport and pre-slaughter than post-treatment. Cortisol concentrations were greater (P<0.001) in lambs post-transport and at slaughter compared with baseline values. Lactate concentrations were lower (P=0.002) in HIGH than LOW lambs. In addition, NEFA concentrations were higher (P<0.001) post-transport and at slaughter in HIGH compared with LOW lambs. Ultimate pH was higher (P<0.001) in HIGH than LOW lambs and pH declined quicker (P=0.012) in LOW than HIGH lambs. Cook loss, drip loss and shear force were lower (P⩽0.05) in HIGH than LOW lambs. The HIGH intensive pre-slaughter handling regime used in the present study caused stress in lambs and increased ultimate pH that could potentially negatively impact welfare, product quality and consistency.
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Santurtun E, Phillips CJC. The impact of vehicle motion during transport on animal welfare. Res Vet Sci 2015; 100:303-8. [PMID: 25847285 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2015.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2014] [Revised: 02/23/2015] [Accepted: 03/14/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Motion sickness is a common response in humans and some species of farm livestock during transport, but research on the impact of motion has been primarily focused on the use of animal models for humans. During livestock transportation, animals seek to minimise uncontrolled movements to reduce energy consumption and maintain posture. Road and sea transport of livestock can produce motion sickness and stress responses. Clinical signs are the result of autonomous nervous system activation. Studies conducted on road transportation effects in domestic animals showed several motion sickness behaviours including vomiting and, in ruminants, a reduction in rumination. However, there is a lack of knowledge on the impact of sea transport motion. Despite the paucity of data on livestock, there is sufficient evidence to believe that motion might affect animal welfare when animals are transported by road or sea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Santurtun
- Centre for Animal Welfare and Ethics, School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, Gatton 4343, Queensland, Australia.
| | - Clive J C Phillips
- Centre for Animal Welfare and Ethics, School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, Gatton 4343, Queensland, Australia
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Wickham SL, Collins T, Barnes AL, Miller DW, Beatty DT, Stockman CA, Blache D, Wemelsfelder F, Fleming PA. Validating the use of qualitative behavioral assessment as a measure of the welfare of sheep during transport. J APPL ANIM WELF SCI 2015; 18:269-86. [PMID: 25695526 DOI: 10.1080/10888705.2015.1005302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
We tested the application of qualitative behavioral assessment (QBA) as a welfare assessment tool. Sheep were exposed to road transport treatments, and behavioral expressions were compared between experimental treatments and validated by correlation with physiological measures. We compared journeys differing in ventilation (closed vs. open-sided trailer), flooring (grip vs. nongrip flooring), and driving styles (stop-start vs. continuous driving). Blood samples were collected immediately before loading and after unloading; heart rate and core body temperatures were recorded continuously. Continuous video footage was edited to show individual sheep to observers for QBA using free-choice profiling (observers used their own descriptive terms). There was significant consensus in observers' scores for the sheep in each experiment (p < .001). Observers distinguished between sheep exposed to flooring (p = .014) or driving-style (p = .005) treatments, but not between ventilation treatments. QBA scores were compared (p < .05) with plasma leptin, glucose, and insulin-like growth factor-1 concentrations; white blood cell profiles; red blood cell counts; hematocrit; body temperatures; and heart rate variability. Observer assessments reflected treatment differences, and correlations between behavioral expression and physiological responses were found.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah L Wickham
- a Veterinary & Life Sciences, Murdoch University , Perth , Australia
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18
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Kadim I, Mahgoub O, Khalaf S. Effects of the transportation during hot season and electrical stimulation on meat quality characteristics of goat Longissimus dorsi muscle. Small Rumin Res 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2014.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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19
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Piccione G, Casella S, Giannetto C, Bazzano M, Giudice E, Fazio F. Oxidative stress associated with road transportation in ewes. Small Rumin Res 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2012.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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20
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Aguayo-Ulloa L, Miranda-de la Lama G, Pascual-Alonso M, Fuchs K, Olleta J, Campo M, Alierta S, Villarroel M, María G. Effect of feeding regime during finishing on lamb welfare, production performance and meat quality. Small Rumin Res 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2012.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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21
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de la Fuente J, de Chávarri EG, Sánchez M, Vieira C, Lauzurica S, Díaz MT, Pérez C. The effects of journey duration and space allowance on the behavioural and biochemical measurements of stress responses in suckling lambs during transport to an abattoir. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2012.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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22
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Piccione G, Casella S, Giannetto C, Giudice E, Fazio F. Utility of acute phase proteins as biomarkers of transport stress in ewes. Small Rumin Res 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2012.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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23
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Bosona T, Gebresenbet G, Bulitta FS. Modeling the dynamic response of camels' heart rate to physical activities. Livest Sci 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2011.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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24
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Zhong RZ, Liu HW, Zhou DW, Sun HX, Zhao CS. The effects of road transportation on physiological responses and meat quality in sheep differing in age1. J Anim Sci 2011; 89:3742-51. [DOI: 10.2527/jas.2010-3693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Effects of road type during transport on lamb welfare and meat quality in dry hot climates. Trop Anim Health Prod 2011; 43:915-22. [PMID: 21240654 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-011-9783-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/03/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
This study determined whether transporting lambs on paved (PR) or unpaved roads (UR) for 3 h had an effect on plasma stress indicators (cortisol, lactate, glucose, creatine kinase [CK], red blood cells, white blood cells, hematocrit, and neutrophil/lymphocyte [N/L] ratio) and instrumental meat quality (pH24, bruising score, water holding capacity [WHC], color, and texture). A total of 48 Rasa Aragonesa male lambs were used that were approximately 100 days old (12.5 kg ± 1.64, carcass weight). The results suggest that transport on unpaved roads had a significant influence on physiological and hematological stress parameters. Road type had a significant effect on all variables, except for white and red blood cells, and hematocrit levels. The UR lambs had significantly higher (at least p ≤ 0.01) cortisol, lactate, glucose, and CK levels and a higher N/L ratio than PR lambs. Meat from UR lambs had some dark-cutting characteristics, with a darker color, higher ultimate pH, and higher tenderness values than PR. In conclusion, lambs transported on unpaved roads had a more intense stress response and poorer meat quality than lambs transported on paved roads. An effort to improve the logistics associated with route planning is necessary to prevent welfare problems during transport to slaughter.
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Kadim IT, Mahgoub O, Al-Marzooqi W, Khalaf S, Al-Sinawi SSH, Al-Amri I. Effects of transportation during the hot season, breed and electrical stimulation on histochemical and meat quality characteristics of goat longissimus muscle. Anim Sci J 2010; 81:352-61. [PMID: 20597893 DOI: 10.1111/j.1740-0929.2009.00722.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The effects of transportation and electrical stimulation (90 V) on physiological, histochemical and meat quality characteristics of two breeds of Omani goats were assessed. Twenty 1-year-old male goats from each breed (Batina and Dhofari) were divided into two groups: 3 h transported during the hot season (42 degrees C day time temperature) and non-transported. Animals were blood-sampled before loading and prior to slaughter. Electrical stimulation was applied 20 min postmortem to 50% randomly selected carcasses of both breeds. Temperature and pH decline of the Longissimus was monitored. Ultimate pH, shear force, sarcomere length, myofibrillar fragmentation index, expressed juice, cooking loss and colour were measured from samples of Longissimus dorsi muscles. Electrical stimulation and transportation had a significant effect on most biochemical and meat quality characteristics of Longissimus dorsi. The transported goats had higher plasma cortisol (P < 0.01), adrenaline, nor-adrenaline and dopamine concentrations (P < 0.05) than non-transported goats. Electrical stimulation resulted in a significantly (P < 0.05) more rapid muscle pH fall during the first 12 h after slaughter. Muscles from electrically-stimulated carcasses had significantly (P < 0.05) longer sarcomeres, lower shear force value, a lighter colour (higher L* value), higher expressed juice and myofibrillar fragmentation index than those from non-stimulated ones. Meat from transported goats had significantly higher pH, expressed juice and shear force, but contained significantly lower sarcomere length and L* values than non-transported goats. The proportion of the myosin ATPase staining did not change as a function of stimulation, transportation or breed. These results indicated that subjecting goats to transportation for 3 h under high ambient temperatures can generate major physiological and muscle metabolism responses. Electrical stimulation improved quality characteristics of meat from both groups. This indicates that electrical stimulation may reduce detrimental effects of transportation on meat quality of Omani goats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isam T Kadim
- Department of Animal & Veterinary Sciences, College of Agricultural and Marine Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman.
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27
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Transportation of beef cattle to slaughterhouses and how this relates to animal welfare and carcase bruising in an extensive production system. Anim Welf 2010. [DOI: 10.1017/s0962728600001664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
AbstractThe objective of this study was to evaluate conditions during transport and their effects on welfare and carcase bruising of beef cattle in Uruguay, a country with an extensive, pasture-based, production system. Twelve abattoirs were visited periodically during two years (2002-2003) and 448 trucks were inspected on arrival. The state of vehicle maintenance was deemed ‘unacceptable’ for the transport of animals in 16.5 (± 3.2)% of cases and most of the vehicles (99.1 [± 0.1]%) had a ‘guillotine-type’ door at the rear end. Both characteristics showed a significant association with the presence of carcase bruising. No overall significant difference was found with the year of vehicle manufacture (24.6 [± 0.2]% before 1990), the presence of rollers bars in 51.3 (± 0.1)% of the trucks on one or both sides of the doors, and the working experience of the men who transported the cattle (> 10 years). The average distance travelled with the animals loaded onto trucks was 240 (± 9) km and the mean journey length was 305 (± 7) min (5 h). A statistically significant effect of the distance travelled and the state of the roads on the occurrence of bruising was found. The use of devices to force animals to move, such as: electric prod (75%), sticks (3%), loud shouts (40%) and a combination of all of the above were positively correlated with bruising. After slaughter, carcase bruising was identified, quantified, and classified into three degrees of muscle injury. From 15,168 beef cattle observed, 60.0% (9,106) had at least one injury. Of the injured carcases, 33.1% (3,015) had one bruise, 25.1% (2,289) had two bruises, 16.2% (1,474) had three bruises and 25.6% (2,328) four or more bruises. Transporting animals in a humane fashion will reduce the amount of bruising on carcases, thereby increasing both the welfare of beef cattle and the profitability of the beef industry in Uruguay.
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28
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Miranda-de la Lama G, Rivero L, Chacón G, Garcia-Belenguer S, Villarroel M, Maria G. Effect of the pre-slaughter logistic chain on some indicators of welfare in lambs. Livest Sci 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2009.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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29
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Sheep lose balance, slip and fall less when loosely packed in transit where they stand close to but not touching their neighbours. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2009.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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30
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Physiological response and carcass and meat quality of suckling lambs in relation to transport time and stocking density during transport by road. Animal 2010; 4:250-8. [DOI: 10.1017/s1751731109991108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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31
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Mazzone G, Vignola G, Giammarco M, Manetta AC, Lambertini L. Effects of loading methods on rabbit welfare and meat quality. Meat Sci 2009; 85:33-9. [PMID: 20374861 DOI: 10.1016/j.meatsci.2009.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2009] [Revised: 11/23/2009] [Accepted: 11/29/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The effects of different loading methods on the welfare, carcass characteristics and meat quality traits of hybrid commercial rabbits were investigated. 384 male rabbits, 82 days old, were transported from the farm to the slaughterhouse. At the farm, 192 rabbits were loaded onto the truck smoothly (S) and 192 rabbits were loaded roughly (R). The S loading method consisted of carefully placing each rabbit into the transport crates. In the R method, the loading was hurriedly and carelessly executed by the transport operator, throwing each animal into the crates fixed on the truck. Live weight before and after transport as well as slaughter data were recorded for each rabbit, and a subset of 80 carcasses were evaluated for meat quality. Blood samples from 80 rabbits were analysed for haematological and biochemical parameters. A significant neutrophilia (P<0.001), lymphocytopaenia (P<0.001) and an increase in serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (P<0.01), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (P<0.001) and creatine kinase (CK) activities (P<0.001) were recorded in all rabbits after transport, independent of the loading method. A twofold increase in serum corticosterone concentration (6.23 vs. 14.88 ng/mL; P=0.001) was observed in all rabbits following transport. Results suggest that the stress parameters analysed were more influenced by transport and handling itself rather than by the different loading methods. The results showed that there was no adverse effect of loading method on carcass traits. Furthermore, the stress condition evidenced by haematological and biochemical parameters prior to slaughter did not affect meat quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Mazzone
- Dipartimento di Scienze degli Alimenti, Università di Teramo, vle F Crispi n 212, 64100 Teramo, Italy
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Kadim I, Mahgoub O, Al-Marzooqi W, Khalaf S, Al-Sinawi S, Al-Amri I. Effects of transportation during the hot season and low voltage electrical stimulation on histochemical and meat quality characteristics of sheep longissimus muscle. Livest Sci 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2009.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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33
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Miranda-de la Lama GC, Villarroel M, Olleta JL, Alierta S, Sañudo C, Maria GA. Effect of the pre-slaughter logistic chain on meat quality of lambs. Meat Sci 2009; 83:604-9. [PMID: 20416651 DOI: 10.1016/j.meatsci.2009.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2009] [Revised: 07/13/2009] [Accepted: 07/15/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
A total of 144 lambs were sampled in a 3×2×2 factorial design, testing three residence (stay) times at a pre-slaughter classification centre (0, 7, and 28days) and two seasons (summer and winter), with two replicates in each season. Meat from the longissimus dorsi was analysed in terms of pH, WHC, texture, colour (L∗a∗b∗, chroma and hue) and carcass bruising. Stay time had a significant effect (p<0.001) on meat texture, while season had a significant effect (p<0.001) on all variables analysed. Overall, stay time had less effect on meat quality than season and the interaction between treatments was not significant. Meat from lambs slaughtered in winter had some dark-cutting characteristics, with darker colour, higher ultimate pH, tougher meat and lower press juice. In conclusion, pre-slaughter classification and season are sources of stress for lambs and affect meat quality traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- G C Miranda-de la Lama
- Department of Animal Production and Food Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain(1)
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Saeb M, Baghshani H, Nazifi S, Saeb S. Physiological response of dromedary camels to road transportation in relation to circulating levels of cortisol, thyroid hormones and some serum biochemical parameters. Trop Anim Health Prod 2009; 42:55-63. [PMID: 19544085 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-009-9385-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2008] [Accepted: 06/07/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Transportation is often considered as one of the main causes of stress raising considerable interest, both in economic and animal welfare terms. The objective of the current study was to determine physiological response of dromedary camels to road transportation in relation to circulating levels of cortisol, thyroid hormones and some serum biochemical factors during summer conditions. Ten Iranian dromedary camels, five males and five females, were selected for the study. The study was conducted on three consecutive days in August 2008. At first day, blood samples were collected at 08:30 A.M., 09:30 A.M. and 01:30 P.M. to determine any possible variation in individual measurements due to diurnal changes or as a result of food and water deprivation for 5 h. Travel commenced on day 2 at 08:30 A.M. for 5 h, with a total of about 300 km traveled. At second day, blood samples were collected immediately before loading, at 08:30 a.m., after 1 h transport, at 09:30 A.M., and on the end of transportation, after unloading, at 01:30 P.M. Final blood sample was taken 24 h after arrival. In the current study no significant difference was observed in any parameter between sexes at each sampling time. The data related to day before transport had no significant differences between different times except for values obtained for cortisol that at 01:30 P.M. showed a significant decrease in comparison with data at 08:30 and 09:30. Circulating cortisol, T(4), T(3) and fT(4) levels was significantly higher after transportation compared with pre-transport values and returned to basal values within 24 h after transport. Transportation had effects on metabolism as demonstrated by increase in serum concentrations of glucose, NEFA, and urea nitrogen. Serum concentrations of glucose, NEFA, and urea nitrogen returned to basal values in final bleeding at 24 h after transport termination. In the current study transportation had no significant effects on serum concentrations of fT(3), triglycerides, cholesterol, beta-hydroxybutyrate, albumin and total protein. Taken together, the results obtained for short road transportation of dromedary camels showed a strong physiological response and provide some biomarkers for stress detection in this species. Further research to validate these potential biomarkers is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Saeb
- Department of Basic Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
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36
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Petherick JC, Phillips CJ. Space allowances for confined livestock and their determination from allometric principles. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2008.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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37
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38
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Effects of transportation at high ambient temperatures on physiological responses, carcass and meat quality characteristics of three breeds of Omani goats. Meat Sci 2006; 73:626-34. [DOI: 10.1016/j.meatsci.2006.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2005] [Revised: 02/05/2006] [Accepted: 03/09/2006] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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39
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Roussel S, Hemsworth PH, Leruste H, White C, Duvaux-Ponter C, Nowak R, Boissy A. Repeated transport and isolation during pregnancy in ewes: Effects on the reactivity to humans and to their offspring after lambing. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2006. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2005.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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40
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Ali BH, Al-Qarawi AA, Mousa HM. Stress associated with road transportation in desert sheep and goats, and the effect of pretreatment with xylazine or sodium betaine. Res Vet Sci 2005; 80:343-8. [PMID: 16181650 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2005.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2004] [Revised: 05/25/2005] [Accepted: 07/21/2005] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The present work investigates some clinical, endocrinological, biochemical and haematological variables in desert sheep and goats stressed in the course of individual road transportation, and the influence thereon of pretreatment with an established anti-stressor drug, xylazine HCl, and a test compound, sodium betaine (trimethylglycine). Road transportation for 2h resulted in variable and statistically insignificant increases in heart, pulse and respiratory rates in both control and experimental animals. Transportation stress significantly increased the concentrations of plasma cortisol, and glucose, and decreased that of magnesium. The endogenous thiocyanate concentration was unaffected. The stress also insignificantly decreased the haematocrit (PCV), and the number of lymphocytes, and increased the concentration of haemoglobin. Pretreatment of sheep and goats with xylazine at a single dose of 0.01 mg/kg by the intravenous route significantly ameliorated the effects induced by the stressful stimulus. The effects of pretreatment of the two species with sodium betaine (10 mg/kg) produced variable and insignificant effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- B H Ali
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Al Gaseem University, P.O. Box 10158, Burydha, Al Gaseem, Saudi Arabia.
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Hambrecht E, Eissen JJ, Newman DJ, Smits CHM, den Hartog LA, Verstegen MWA. Negative effects of stress immediately before slaughter on pork quality are aggravated by suboptimal transport and lairage conditions. J Anim Sci 2005; 83:440-8. [DOI: 10.2527/2005.832440x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Chronic stress in sheep: assessment tools and their use in different management conditions. Anim Welf 2004. [DOI: 10.1017/s0962728600028402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
AbstractChronic stress occurs when animals are unable to deal with a persistent stressor with species-typical responses, or when several stressors are present concurrently. Chronic stress is most frequently considered in intensive systems, but it may also be a welfare concern for extensively managed species, such as the sheep. Here we review behavioural and physiological responses of sheep to experimentally induced chronic stressors to determine relevant indicators of chronic stress. Neuroendocrine responses to chronic stress are difficult to interpret because initial responses are followed by an apparent normalisation. Thus, cortisol or catecholamines may be at or below pre-stress levels during chronic stress, but this varies with different stressors. Chronic stress can also affect reproductive function, impair body and wool growth and meat quality, reduce immune function, and is associated with greater parasite burdens in sheep. Chronic stress induces alterations in behaviour patterns, particularly activity and feeding, and circadian rhythms of behaviour. Stereotypic behaviours, however, are infrequent in sheep and may occur only in experimental conditions of social isolation. Behavioural and physiological data suggest that rough handling and sheepdogs may be sources of chronic stress for sheep. Social subordination and weaning also act as chronic stressors, leading to higher parasitism in these animals and a greater response to additional stressors. Lameness and parasitism are associated with physiological and behavioural responses indicating that these are severe forms of chronic stress in sheep. It is unclear whether environmental stressors, such as weather and food availability, induce chronic stress in sheep. Under-nutrition may, however, be a welfare concern through its impact on lamb survival. The existence of many sources of chronic stress in the management of sheep suggests that the welfare of this species requires more attention than it has currently received.
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Fàbrega E, Manteca X, Font J, Gispert M, Carrión D, Velarde A, Ruiz-de-la-Torre J, Diestre A. Effects of halothane gene and pre-slaughter treatment on meat quality and welfare from two pig crosses. Meat Sci 2002; 62:463-72. [DOI: 10.1016/s0309-1740(02)00040-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2001] [Revised: 01/14/2002] [Accepted: 01/14/2002] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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