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MacGillivray F, Bard AM, Cobb KA, Corah L, Reyher KK, Green MJ, Wapenaar W. Communicating without words: Measuring nonverbal communication between veterinarians and farmers during routine herd health consultations. J Dairy Sci 2023:S0022-0302(23)00287-4. [PMID: 37268581 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2022-22479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Uptake of advice and the ability to facilitate change on-farm are key elements for successful veterinary practice. However, having the necessary clinical skills and knowledge is not enough to achieve this: effective communication skills are essential for veterinarians to realize their advisory role by exploring and understanding the farmer's worldview. Research of verbal aspects of veterinarian communication supports the use of a relationship-centered communication style; we next need to study how veterinarian-farmer nonverbal communication (NVC) can influence interactions and their outcomes, which has been examined in medical and companion animal practice. In this study, we considered which aspects of NVC should be measured, and how, to provide an essential first step toward understanding the significance of NVC for veterinarians working in dairy practice, which should be of interest to researchers, veterinary educators, and practitioners. Eleven video recordings of routine consultations in the UK were analyzed for farmer and veterinarian NVC. The NVC attributes with established links to positive patient and client outcomes from medical and social science studies were chosen, and a methodology developed for their measurement, by adapting measures typically used in NVC research. Each consultation was segmented into intervals defined by the main activity and location on farm: introduction, fertility examination, discussion, and closing. This approach allowed us to analyze the content more consistently, establish which aspects of NVC featured within each interval, and whether the activity and location influenced the observed NVC. We measured 12 NVC attributes, including body orientation, interpersonal distance, head position, and body lean, which have been shown to influence empathy, rapport, and trust: key components of relationship-centered communication. Future research should seek to establish the significance of NVC in effective communication between veterinarian and farmer, building on our findings that show it is possible to measure nonverbal attributes. Veterinarians may benefit from becoming skilled nonverbal communicators and have more effective conversations during routine consultations, motivating farmers to make changes and improve herd health.
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Affiliation(s)
- F MacGillivray
- MacVet Cattle Communications Limited, Knutsford, United Kingdom WA16 9EE.
| | - A M Bard
- Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences, Aberystwyth University, Aberystwyth, United Kingdom SY23 3DA
| | - K A Cobb
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Leicestershire, United Kingdom LE12 5RD
| | - L Corah
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Leicestershire, United Kingdom LE12 5RD
| | - K K Reyher
- Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Langford, United Kingdom BS40 5DU
| | - M J Green
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Leicestershire, United Kingdom LE12 5RD
| | - W Wapenaar
- Elanco Animal Health, 40789 Monheim am Rhein, Germany
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Dhaka P, Chantziaras I, Vijay D, Bedi JS, Makovska I, Biebaut E, Dewulf J. Can Improved Farm Biosecurity Reduce the Need for Antimicrobials in Food Animals? A Scoping Review. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:antibiotics12050893. [PMID: 37237795 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12050893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Limited and judicious antimicrobial usage (AMU) is considered the key to saving the success of human and veterinary medicine in treating infections. With the limited alternatives for antimicrobials, farm biosecurity (and herd management) is considered a promising tool to mitigate the non-judicious AMU and to maintain animal health, production, and welfare. The present scoping review aims to analyse the effect of farm biosecurity on AMU in livestock systems and formulate recommendations. Peer-reviewed manuscripts published between 2001-2022 were analyzed using the PRISMA framework using PubMed, Scopus, and Science Direct databases. After applying the inclusion criteria, 27 studies were found to assess the effect of farm biosecurity (or management practices) on AMU at the herd/farm level in quantitative/semi-quantitative terms. These studies were carried out in 16 countries, of which 74.1% (20/27) were from 11 European countries. The highest number of studies were from pig farms [51.8% (14/27)], followed by poultry (chicken) farms [25.9% (7/27)], cattle farms [11.1% (3/27)], and a single study from a turkey farm. Two studies include both pig and poultry farms. Most of the studies were cross-sectional [70.4% (19/27)], seven were longitudinal, and one was a case-control study. Complex interactions were observed among factors influencing AMU, such as biosecurity measures, farm characteristics, farmers' attitudes, availability of animal health services, stewardship, etc. A positive association between farm biosecurity and reduction in AMU was observed in 51.8% (14/27) of the studies, and 18.5% (5/27) showed that improvement in farm management practices was associated with a reduction in AMU. Two studies highlighted that coaching and awareness among farmers might lead to a decrease in AMU. A single study on economic assessment concluded biosecurity practices as a cost-effective way to reduce AMU. On the other hand, five studies showed an uncertain or spurious association between farm biosecurity and AMU. We recommend the reinforcement of the concept of farm biosecurity, especially in lower- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Further, there is a need to strengthen the evidence on the association between farm biosecurity and AMU in region- and species-specific farm settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pankaj Dhaka
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
- Centre for One Health, College of Veterinary Science, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana 141004, India
| | - Ilias Chantziaras
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Deepthi Vijay
- Department of Veterinary Public Health, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Thrissur 680651, India
| | - Jasbir Singh Bedi
- Centre for One Health, College of Veterinary Science, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana 141004, India
| | - Iryna Makovska
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Evelien Biebaut
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Jeroen Dewulf
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
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Lutz B, Zwygart S, Thomann B, Stucki D, Burla JB. The relationship between common data-based indicators and the welfare of Swiss dairy herds. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:991363. [PMID: 36337183 PMCID: PMC9632483 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.991363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 04/03/2024] Open
Abstract
The assessment of dairy cow welfare has become increasingly important in recent years. Welfare assessments that use animal-based indicators, which are considered the most direct indicators, are time consuming and therefore not feasible for assessments on a large number of farms. One approach to reducing this effort is the use of data-based indicators (DBIs) calculated from routine herd data. The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between common DBIs and the welfare of 35 dairy herds to evaluate the feasibility of a data-based welfare prediction method. For this purpose, the WelfareQuality® (WQ) protocol was used to assess the welfare of dairy cows on 35 Swiss farms, for each of which 10 commonly used DBIs were calculated from herd data. Spearman's rank correlations were used to investigate the relationship between DBIs and WQ criteria and measurements. The study found only a few statistically weak associations between DBIs and animal welfare, with no associations for measurements or criteria of resting comfort and appropriate behavior. Thus, the multidimensional welfare definition is insufficiently covered, and the present publication does not support the approach of a purely data-based prediction of dairy welfare status at the farm level. Instead, the regular calculation of DBIs that are indicative of isolated animal welfare problems or metrics of animal health could allow monitoring of these specific areas of animal welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Lutz
- Centre for Proper Housing of Ruminants and Pigs, Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office FSVO, Ettenhausen, Switzerland
- Clinic for Ruminants, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Sibylle Zwygart
- Clinic for Ruminants, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Beat Thomann
- Vetsuisse Faculty, Veterinary Public Health Institute, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Dimitri Stucki
- Clinic for Ruminants, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Joan-Bryce Burla
- Centre for Proper Housing of Ruminants and Pigs, Agroscope, Ettenhausen, Switzerland
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Staufenbiel R, Schmitt R, Müller AE, Staufenbiel L. [Analyses of the relationship between the concentrations of essential trace elements in total mixed ration and faeces samples from Holstein Friesian dairy cows and the estimation of faeces reference values]. SCHWEIZ ARCH TIERH 2022; 164:709-719. [PMID: 36193781 DOI: 10.17236/sat00370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Undersupply and oversupply of dairy cows with essential trace elements should be avoided from the point of view of animal health and environmental pollution. The aim of the study was to proof the results faecal analyzes on the nutritional supply situation with essential trace elements in comparison to measurements from total mixed ration (TMR) analyses. Concentrations of iron (Fe), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), Mangan (Mn), selenium (Se), cobalt (Co), molybdenum (Mo) were measured as representative multicentric random sample in 574 TMR, 600 pooled faecal and blood samples from dairy cows. Trace elements, Fe in 0 %, Se 18 %, Zn 43 %, Cu 52 %, Co 53 % and Mn 59 %, were within the target range. Undersupply was found in 0 to 8 % and an oversupply in 39 to 100 % of the TMR samples. The tolerance limit for Fe was exceeded in 11 % and for Mo in 13 %. The results indicate the need for optimized ration design. The trace element concentrations in the faecal samples varied over a wide range. Results of pooled faecal samples (n=10 per pool) corresponded closely with the mean values calculated from the individual samples (r2 > 0,9). Correlation between element concentrations in the TMR and faecal samples for Fe (r=0,687), Cu (r=0,675), Zn (r=0,635), Mn (r=0,656), Se (r=0,573), Co (r=0,795), and Mo (r=0,708) were highly significant. No correlations were detected between the element concentrations in the TMR and in the blood samples. The regression analyzes showed a highly significant linear adjustment of the measured value distribution around the regression lines over the entire value range including the zero point. Reference values were calculated for the faecal concentrations of Cu, Zn, Mn, Se and Co. Tolerance reference limits in the TMR were calculated for the faecal concentrations of Fe and Mo. The trace element concentrations in the TMR samples reflect the nutritional supply situation. Knowledge of the nutritional supply situation of the herd is of great importance for the stock management of dairy cow. Fecal sample analyzes can be used as an alternative to TMR examinations to assess the nutritional supply situation.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Staufenbiel
- Klinik für Klauentiere, Freie Universität Berlin, Deutschland
| | - R Schmitt
- Klinik für Klauentiere, Freie Universität Berlin, Deutschland
| | | | - L Staufenbiel
- Klinik für Klauentiere, Freie Universität Berlin, Deutschland
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Sherwin V, Hyde R, Green M, Remnant J, Payne E, Down P. Accuracy of heart girth tapes in the estimation of weights of pre-weaned calves. Vet Rec Open 2021; 8:e16. [PMID: 34401192 PMCID: PMC8349223 DOI: 10.1002/vro2.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Heart girth tapes (HGTs) are often used as an alternative to weight scales for calves. This study investigated the accuracy of HGT in estimating bodyweight and daily liveweight gain (DWLG) of pre-weaned calves, and the impact of inter-observer variation. METHOD In Study 1, 119 calves were weighed using HGT and electronic scales on multiple occasions. Mixed-effects models for both bodyweight and DLWG were used to determine the accuracy of HGT compared to the electronic scales. Simulation data were used to further analyse the accuracy of DLWG estimation including for factors such as the effect of group size on group DLWG estimates.In Study 2, 10 observers weighed 20 pre-weaned calves, using HGT and electronic scales. Mixed-effect model was used to investigate the impact of different observers on the accuracy of HGT on measuring bodyweights. RESULTS Mixed-effects model results suggest HGT provides a relatively accurate estimation of weight (MAE: 2.66 kg) and relatively inaccurate estimation of DLWG (MAE 0.10 kg/d). Simulated data identified associations between time between weight dates and error in DLWG estimation, with MAE of individual DLWG estimation decreasing from 0.43 kg/d when 14 days apart to 0.08 kg/d when 70 days apart. Increased calf numbers reduced error rates of group DLWG estimation, with <0.05 kg/d error achieved in >90% of simulations when 12 calves were weighed 70 days apart. CONCLUSIONS HGTs are relatively accurate at estimating individual bodyweights but are unreliable methods for measuring DLWG in individual calves, particularly weighed within a short-time period. Estimates at group level however are relatively accurate, providing there is a suitable period of time between weigh dates and an appropriate number of calves per group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Sherwin
- School of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of NottinghamLeicestershireUK
| | - Robert Hyde
- School of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of NottinghamLeicestershireUK
| | - Martin Green
- School of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of NottinghamLeicestershireUK
| | - John Remnant
- School of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of NottinghamLeicestershireUK
| | - Emily Payne
- School of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of NottinghamLeicestershireUK
| | - Peter Down
- School of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of NottinghamLeicestershireUK
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Medeiros I, Fernandez-Novo A, Astiz S, Simões J. Production and Health Management from Grazing to Confinement Systems of Largest Dairy Bovine Farms in Azores: A Farmers' Perspective. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:3394. [PMID: 34944171 DOI: 10.3390/ani11123394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary This study aimed to evaluate differences and critical factors in production and health management between dairy cattle farms with fixed milk parlours (FMP), and mobile milk systems (MMS) from Azorean grasslands. According to the farmers’ perspective, calf diarrhea, calf pneumonia, infertility/poor reproductive management, and mastitis were the main problems that farms faced in 2020. FMP was associated with more advanced and mechanized production systems, with a higher adherence to preventive and biosecurity control programs, than traditional MMS farms. MMS farms also showed a greater vocation for dual-purpose farming (beef and milk), smaller herd sizes and more grazing time for cows. In conclusion, inherent and non-inherent differences in production and health management between FMP and MMS were quantified by authors. These results indicate that a greater adoption of preventive veterinary medicine and biosecurity measures should be taken, especially among MMS farms. The education of farmers should also be improved and stimulated. Abstract The intensification of bovine milk production in the Azores has led farmers to increase farm size and specialization in grasslands, implementing confined and semi-confined production systems. Fixed milking parlours (FMP) have progressively gained more popularity, at the expense of conventional mobile milking systems (MMS). The present study aimed to evaluate the associations between production and health management in dairy cattle farms, with FMP or MMS, in grasslands (São Miguel, Azores), according to the farmers’ perspective. A total of 102 questions about production and health management were surveyed in 105 farms with >30 dairy cows each. Farms with FMP were associated (p ≤ 0.05) with larger herd size, better facilities, and specialized management, however, the adoption of preventive and biosecurity measures should be improved by these farmers. MMS farms implemented a lower level of disease prevention or control programs, less frequent transhumance, and showed a wider vocation to dual-purpose (milk and cross beef) than FMP farms. In conclusion, MMS and FMP farms tried to optimize yield and economic viability in different ways using grasslands. Several biosecurity and health prevention constraints were identified for improvement.
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Howard P, Laven LJ, Laven RA. A pilot monitoring strategy for post-partum disease in an Australian dairy herd. N Z Vet J 2021; 70:149-158. [PMID: 34694981 DOI: 10.1080/00480169.2021.1997667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To design a monitoring strategy that could be applied to regular veterinary visits to dairy farms to assess the prevalence and association between health conditions (uterine disease, hyperketonaemia and suboptimal body condition score) when diagnosed and treated at 1-7 days post-calving (DPC) and then re-examined at 28-35 DPC. METHODS This study evaluated data from 187 high-yielding dairy cows (21 primiparous, 166 multiparous) on one South Australian dairy farm on two occasions; Visit A which was 1-7 DPC and Visit B which was 28-35 DPC. On each visit, the nature of vaginal discharge, concentration of beta-hydroxybutyrate (BOH) in blood and BCS were recorded and assigned a clinical score. This was converted to a categorical outcome denoting the presence or absence of an abnormal health event, namely metritis or endometritis, hyperketonaemia (BOH concentration ≥1.2 mm/L) and suboptimal body condition score (>0.5 from optimum score). Cows with uterine disease or hyperketonaemia at either visit were treated. The prevalence of abnormal health events at each visit was determined and the association between the prevalence of disease at Visit A and Visit B (following appropriate treatment at Visit A) was measured using regression analysis. RESULTS The prevalence of abnormal vaginal discharge, hyperketonaemia and suboptimal BCS at Visits A and B were 26%, 7%, 35% and 25%,16%, 33% respectively. A higher proportion of primiparous cows (Visit A: 0.86 (95% CI = 0.70-1.00); Visit B: 0.95 (95% CI = 0.86-1.00)) were found to have suboptimal BCS at both visits compared to multiparous cows (Visit A: 0.28 (95% CI = 0.20-0.35); Visit B: 0.24 (95% CI = 0.17-0.32)). A higher prevalence of hyperketonaemia at Visit B for multiparous compared to primiparous cows (19 (95% CI = 12-25)% vs. 0 (95% CI = 0-17) respectively) was identified. An increase in clinical discharge score at Visit A increased the odds of purulent vaginal discharge at Visit B (OR = 1.77 (95% CI = 1.31-2.40)). Failing to calve at target BCS was strongly associated with cows missing target BCS at Visit B (OR = 5.77 (95% CI = 2.35-13.11)) and for every unit increase in BCS at Visit A, BCS at Visit B increased by 0.40 (95% CI = 0.26-0.53). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE This study describes a pilot monitoring strategy for clinical parameters indicative of post-partum disease at 1-7 and 28-35 DPC. Determining the herd prevalence of these conditions will enable tracking of herd disease status over time.Abbreviations: BCS: Body condition score; BOH: Beta-hydroxybutyrate; DPC: Days post-calving; NEFA: Non-esterified fatty acids; SCHK: Subclinical hyperketonaemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Howard
- Production Animal Health Centre, Roseworthy Campus, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, Australia
| | - L J Laven
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - R A Laven
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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Heinonen M, Välimäki E, Laakkonen AM, Toppari I, Vugts J, Fàbrega E, Valros A. Evaluation of Tail Lesions of Finishing Pigs at the Slaughterhouse: Associations With Herd-Level Observations. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:650590. [PMID: 34336967 PMCID: PMC8319664 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.650590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of tail lesions evaluated at the slaughterhouse varies considerably between herds. These lesions result mainly from tail biting, a harmful behavior with multifactorial origin. This study sought to investigate if a batchwise inspection of tails at slaughterhouse could be a useful method to estimate the animal welfare situation in finishing pig herds, and if so, what type and detail of tail scoring such an inspection should utilize. We investigated the distribution of different types of tail lesions and how well their scoring at slaughterhouse was associated with the situation recorded on-farm by a veterinarian as part of routine herd health visits. We also wanted to determine if animal welfare-related herd-level parameters, recorded by herd veterinarians during herd health visits, are associated with tail scoring at the slaughterhouse. A total of 10,517 pigtails from 84 herds were scored for this study. Herd data were collected from the national health classification register for pig farms in Finland and also included annual herd production quality data collected by the slaughterhouse. The scores of the tails varied considerably between the herds. On average, 48.1% (sd = 19.3) of the tails with an average length of 30.4 cm (sd = 2.7) were fully intact, 37.3% (13.9) had healed (length = 26.4, sd = 5.1 cm), 12.4% (9.0) (length = 28.9, sd = 4.3 cm) had minor acute wounds, and 2.3% (2.1) (length = 24.2, sd = 6.0 cm) had major acute wounds. Proportions of different tail lesions at slaughterhouse were associated with or tended to be associated with the following herd-level parameters in regression models: use of wood as enrichment (p < 0.1), one health parameter (leg problems other than arthritis, p < 0.05), and long-term animal welfare estimate (annual mortality, p < 0.05). Detailed tail evaluation at the slaughterhouse shows potential in estimating the tail lesions and long-term welfare level on the farm. By recording only one type of tail condition (such as tails with major acute lesions) at the slaughterhouse, it is not possible to estimate the total tail lesion situation in the herds before slaughter. A more detailed scoring similar to the one used in this trial is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mari Heinonen
- Department of Production Animal Medicine and Research Centre for Animal Welfare, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Anne-Maija Laakkonen
- Department of Production Animal Medicine and Research Centre for Animal Welfare, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | | | - Emma Fàbrega
- Animal Welfare Program, Institut de Recerca i Tecnologia Agroalimentària, Monells, Spain
| | - Anna Valros
- Department of Production Animal Medicine and Research Centre for Animal Welfare, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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Brooks S, House JK, Ingenhoff L. The effect of participation in a regular reproductive herd health program on 80-day submission rate and 100-day in-calf rate in year-round calving dairy farms. Aust Vet J 2020; 99:79-85. [PMID: 33241557 DOI: 10.1111/avj.13042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Herd health management programs are commonly implemented on dairy farms to improve farm reproductive performance. In year-round calving systems, herd health programs can be supported by extension programs such as InCalf, which focus on improving the 100-day in-calf rate (100DICR) as a key reproductive performance indicator. The effect of implementing a herd health program was evaluated by analysing the 80-day submission rate (80DSR) and 100DICR during the initial 18-month period following commencement of regular herd health visits at 11 year-round calving dairy farms. The mean 80DSR and 100DICR was calculated for each of six consecutive three-month intervals following the initial herd health visit at 11 dairy farms distributed across the north and south coasts of New South Wales (NSW). On the 11 study farms 80DSR increased from 36.9% (95% confidence interval [CI] 36.7-37.2) at 0-3 months to 61.9% (95% CI 61.4-62.4) and 100DICR increased from 19.1% (95% CI 18.9-19.3) at 0-3 months to 28.5% (95% CI 28.0-29.0) at 15-18 months. 80DSR increased at similar rates on north coast farms compared to south coast farms; however, north coast farms had a lower 100DICR at 0-3 months which increased at a greater rate compared to south coast farms. 100DICR on north coast farms increased from 12.8% (95% CI 12.5-13.2) at 0-3 months to 27.6% (95% CI 26.8-28.4) at 15-18 months, whereas 100DICR on south coast farms increased from 26.7% (95% CI 26.3-27.0) at 0-3 months to 29.6% (95% CI 28.8-30.5) at 15-18 months. Participation in a regular herd health program resulted in an increased 80DSR and 100DICR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Snm Brooks
- Livestock Veterinary Teaching and Research Unit, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Camden, New South Wales, 2570, Australia
| | - J K House
- Livestock Veterinary Teaching and Research Unit, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Camden, New South Wales, 2570, Australia
| | - L Ingenhoff
- Livestock Veterinary Teaching and Research Unit, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Camden, New South Wales, 2570, Australia
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Doidge C, Hudson CD, Burgess R, Lovatt F, Kaler J. Antimicrobial use practices and opinions of beef farmers in England and Wales. Vet Rec 2020; 187:e119. [PMID: 32859656 DOI: 10.1136/vr.105878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Limited research exists on antimicrobial use practices of beef farmers. This study aimed to investigate antimicrobial practices and perceptions of beef farmers in England and Wales, and identify drivers of higher antimicrobial use for treatment of bovine pneumonia. METHODS A survey was sent out in 2017 to beef farmers in England and Wales who supply to two abattoirs. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise the data. A logistic regression model was built to determine factors associated with treating greater than 5 per cent of the predominant group in the herd with antimicrobials for pneumonia. RESULTS There were a total of 171 useable responses. Most farmers reported using antimicrobials in less than 5 per cent of their herd for the treatment of common diseases. Most farmers (90 per cent) reported that they understood what antimicrobial resistance means, but only 55 per cent were aware of critically important antimicrobials and 9 per cent could name at least one critically important antimicrobial. Having a calf-rearing enterprise and not considering Johne's disease when buying in cattle were associated with using antimicrobials to treat pneumonia in greater than 5 per cent of the predominant group in the herd. CONCLUSION Self-reported antimicrobial use appears to be low in beef farms. However, some gaps in understanding aspects of antimicrobial stewardship by farmers were identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Doidge
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, UK
| | - Chris David Hudson
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, UK
| | | | - Fiona Lovatt
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, UK
| | - Jasmeet Kaler
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, UK
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Pralle RS, White HM. Symposium review: Big data, big predictions: Utilizing milk Fourier-transform infrared and genomics to improve hyperketonemia management. J Dairy Sci 2020; 103:3867-3873. [PMID: 31954582 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2019-17379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Negative animal health and performance outcomes are associated with disease incidences that can be labor-intensive, costly, and cumbersome for many farms. Amelioration of unfavorable outcomes through early detection and treatment of disease has emphasized the value of improving health monitoring. Although the value is recognized, detecting hyperketonemia (HYK) is still difficult for many farms to do practically and efficiently. Increasing data streams available to farms presents opportunities to use data to better monitor cow and herd health; however, challenges remain with regard to validating, integrating, and interpreting data. During the transition to lactation period, useful data are presented in the form of milk production and composition, milk Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) wavelength absorbance, cow management records, and genomics, which have been employed to monitor postpartum onset of HYK. Attempts to predict postpartum HYK from test-day milk and performance variables incorporated into multiple linear regression models have demonstrated sufficient accuracy to monitor monthly herd prevalence; however, they lacked the sensitivity and specificity for individual cow diagnostics. Subsequent artificial neural network prediction models employing FTIR data and milk composition variables achieved 83 and 81% sensitivity and specificity for individual cow diagnostics. Although these results fail to reach the diagnostic goals of 90%, they are achieved without individual cow blood samples, which may justify acceptance of lower performance. The caveat is that these models depend on milk analysis, which is traditionally done every 4 weeks. This infrequent sampling allows for a single diagnostic sample for about half of the fresh cows. Benefits to farms are greatly improved if postpartum cows can be milk-tested weekly. Additionally, this allows for close monitoring of somatic cell count and may open the door for use of other herd health monitoring tools. Future improvements in these models may be achievable by maximizing sensitivity at the expense of specificity and may be most economical in disorders for which the cost of treatment is less than that of mistreating (e.g., HYK). Genomic predictions for HYK may be improved by incorporating genome-wide associated SNP and further utilized for precision management of HYK risk groups. Development and validation of HYK prediction models may provide producers with individual cow and herd-level management tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- R S Pralle
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison 53706
| | - H M White
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison 53706.
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12
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Bard AM, Main D, Roe E, Haase A, Whay HR, Reyher KK. To change or not to change? Veterinarian and farmer perceptions of relational factors influencing the enactment of veterinary advice on dairy farms in the United Kingdom. J Dairy Sci 2019; 102:10379-10394. [PMID: 31447158 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2019-16364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Achieving herd health and welfare improvement increasingly relies on cattle veterinarians to train and advise farmers, placing veterinary interactions at the heart of knowledge exchange. Cattle veterinarians recognize their influence and the need to be proactive advisors but struggle with acting upon this awareness in daily practice, reporting a need to enhance their advisory approach to inspire farmer behavior change. Understanding how veterinarian-farmer interactions positively or negatively influence the enactment of change on farm is therefore essential to support the cattle veterinary profession. This paper adopts a qualitative approach to conceptualize how and under what circumstances veterinary advice has the potential to support and inspire farmer engagement with behavior change on the UK dairy farm. Fourteen UK dairy farms were recruited to take part in a qualitative study involving research observation of a typical advisory consultation between veterinarian and farmer (n = 14) followed by separate, in-depth interviews with the farmer(s) and their respective veterinarian. Interview data were organized using a template coding method and analyzed thematically. While accuracy of veterinary advisory content was valued, it was a relational context of trust, shared veterinarian-farmer understanding, and meaningful interpretation of advice at a local (farmer) level that was most likely to enact change. Critically, these relational factors were reported to work together synergistically; a trusting relationship was an essential, but not necessarily sufficient, component to create a culture of change. Findings suggest that cattle veterinarians may benefit from tailoring advisory services to the farmer's specific world view, facilitated by a shared understanding of the farmer's immediate and long-term motivational drivers. In consequence, cattle veterinarians seeking to positively engage farmers in advisory interactions could consider a focus on farmer priorities, motivations, and goals as paramount to frame and inform advisory messages. This explicit collaborative communication encourages the selection of appropriate and timely veterinary expertise, leading to better integration and adoption of advice on farm given enhanced advisory relevance for farmers' unique circumstances. This farmer-centered approach, involving active co-creation of plans between individuals, is critical for engagement and commitment when tackling complex problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison M Bard
- University of Bristol Veterinary School, Langford, Bristol BS40 5DU, United Kingdom.
| | - David Main
- Royal Agricultural University, Cirencester, Gloucestershire GL7 6JS, United Kingdom
| | - Emma Roe
- School of Geography and Environmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
| | - Anne Haase
- Cancer Prevention Program, Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA 98109-1024
| | - Helen Rebecca Whay
- University of Bristol Veterinary School, Langford, Bristol BS40 5DU, United Kingdom
| | - Kristen K Reyher
- University of Bristol Veterinary School, Langford, Bristol BS40 5DU, United Kingdom
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13
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Croyle SL, Belage E, Khosa DK, LeBlanc SJ, Haley DB, Kelton DF. Dairy farmers' expectations and receptivity regarding animal welfare advice: A focus group study. J Dairy Sci 2019; 102:7385-7397. [PMID: 31202646 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2018-15821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2018] [Accepted: 04/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Discussion and incorporation of best practices for animal welfare have been increasing in research, and in commercial operations, including through welfare assessment initiatives. The aim of this study was to explore dairy farmers' perceptions about being approached and receiving advice about animal welfare (i.e., lameness, hock injuries, and disbudding practices). It is useful for dairy consultants, researchers, or animal welfare assessment programs to gain an in-depth understanding of farmers' expectations when broaching the subject of animal welfare issues to facilitate communication about what can be perceived as a sensitive topic. We collected qualitative data using a focus group methodology. Five focus groups of farmers (n = 36 in total), took place in Ontario, Canada. Discussions were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Participant age ranged from 21 to 80 yr (median = 47). Represented herd size ranged from 25 to 550 milking cows (median = 75). Farm type included free stall (n = 14) and tie stall (n = 22). Rigor was incorporated by using systematic thematic analysis: transcripts were coded line by line, and codes were categorized and then expanded and collapsed into themes, which were further refined to reflect farmer perceptions in a thematic map. Thematic analysis of the focus group discussions suggested 6 major themes related to farmers' receptivity to and expectations of animal welfare advice. Themes 1 to 4 provided insights into what farmers expected from those who were broaching topics: (1) an established relationship with the farmer; (2) expertise in dairy care/welfare; (3) prevention of "barn blindness"; and (4) provision of animal care services before and after welfare issues are broached. Theme 5 helped determine how welfare topics should be broached: the communication approach. Theme 6 identified who farmers feel should broach animal welfare topics on farm. Focus group discussions also provided insights into potential disconnects between farmer and veterinary expectations about animal welfare issues during herd health visits. Those who have established relationships with farmers are better received and are expected to broach welfare issues, especially if they are perceived to be an expert in animal care and welfare, and if they communicate the issue tactfully and work with the farmer to establish a plan of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- S L Croyle
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada.
| | - E Belage
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - D K Khosa
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - S J LeBlanc
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - D B Haley
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - D F Kelton
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
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14
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Graham-Brown J, Williams DJL, Skuce P, Zadoks RN, Dawes S, Swales H, Van Dijk J. Composite Fasciola hepatica faecal egg sedimentation test for cattle. Vet Rec 2019; 184:589. [PMID: 30711919 PMCID: PMC6583716 DOI: 10.1136/vr.105128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Revised: 12/04/2018] [Accepted: 12/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Options for diagnosing Fasciola hepatica infection in groups of cattle are limited. Increasing the opportunities for herd-level diagnosis is important for disease monitoring, making informed treatment decisions and for flukicide efficacy testing. The sensitivity of a simple sedimentation method based on composite faecal samples for the detection of fluke eggs in cattle was assessed through a combination of experimental and statistical modelling techniques. Initially, a composite sample method previously developed for sheep was used to investigate the sensitivity of composite sample testing compared with individual counts on the same samples in cattle. Following this, an optimised, validated, qualitative (presence-absence) composite sample field test was developed for cattle. Results showed that fluke egg counts obtained from a composite sample are representative of those expected from individual counts. The optimal sampling strategy was determined to be 10 individual 10 g samples (100 g composite sample) from which a 10 g subsample is taken for sedimentation. This method yielded a diagnostic sensitivity of 0.69 (95 per cent CI 0.5 to 0.85). These results demonstrate the validity and usefulness of a composite faecal egg sedimentation method for use in the diagnosis and control of F. hepatica in groups of cattle, with the caveat that a negative test should be followed up with a second test due to limitations relating to test sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Graham-Brown
- Infection Biology, University of Liverpool Institute of Infection and Global Health, Liverpool, UK
| | - Diana J L Williams
- Infection Biology, University of Liverpool Institute of Infection and Global Health, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Ruth N Zadoks
- Moredun Research Institute, Midlothian, UK.,University of Glasgow Institute of Biodiversity Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Harry Swales
- Institute of Veterinary Science, Liverpool, Merseyside, UK
| | - Jan Van Dijk
- Epidemiology and Surveillance, Centre for Preventive Medicine, Animal Health Trust, Newmarket, Suffolk, UK
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15
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Devitt C, Graham DA, O'Flaherty J, Strain S, Citer L. Veterinary experiences of a Johne's disease control programme in Ireland. Vet Rec 2018; 183:193. [PMID: 29705739 DOI: 10.1136/vr.104846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2017] [Revised: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 04/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Devitt
- UCD Planning and Environmental Policy, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - David A Graham
- Animal Health Ireland, Carrick on Shannon, Leitrim, Ireland
| | - Joe O'Flaherty
- Animal Health Ireland, Carrick on Shannon, Leitrim, Ireland
| | - Sam Strain
- Animal Health and Welfare Northern Ireland, Animal Health Ireland, Dungannon, Northern Ireland
| | - Lorna Citer
- Animal Health Ireland, Carrick on Shannon, Leitrim, Ireland
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16
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Mahen PJ, Williams HJ, Smith RF, Grove-White D. Effect of blood ionised calcium concentration at calving on fertility outcomes in dairy cattle. Vet Rec 2018; 183:263. [PMID: 29997168 PMCID: PMC6120432 DOI: 10.1136/vr.104932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2018] [Accepted: 05/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Clinical and subclinical hypocalcaemia are common in dairy cows, yet evidence in the literature assessing their impact on fertility is inconsistent. The aim of this prospective cohort study was to examine associations between blood ionised calcium concentration at calving and fertility outcomes in dairy cattle. Blood samples were taken from 137 Holstein cows from four commercial dairy herds within 24 hours of calving and analysed for blood ionised calcium using an Epocal Point of Care Analyser (Epocal, Ottawa, Canada). Data collected from routine veterinary fertility examinations and herd records were used to investigate the association of ionised calcium with the outcomes: time to first service, time to conception and endometritis. There were significant negative associations between blood ionised calcium concentration and time to first service (HR 1.33, P=0.001) and blood ionised calcium concentration and time to conception (HR 1.16, P=0.04). There was no significant association between blood ionised calcium concentration and endometritis. The results of this study imply that management policies that minimise the reduction in blood ionised calcium concentration in the periparturient dairy cow are likely to improve reproductive outcomes and should be considered as part of the multifactorial approach to optimising dairy cow fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippa Jane Mahen
- Department of Livestock Health and Welfare, Institute of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Helen J Williams
- Department of Livestock Health and Welfare, Institute of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Robert Frank Smith
- Department of Livestock Health and Welfare, Institute of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - David Grove-White
- Department of Livestock Health and Welfare, Institute of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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17
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Alawneh JI, Henning J, Olchowy TWJ. Functionality and Interfaces of a Herd Health Decision Support System for Practising Dairy Cattle Veterinarians in New Zealand. Front Vet Sci 2018. [PMID: 29527531 PMCID: PMC5829518 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2018.00021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Decision-making processes to assess and improve the health of dairy herds are often unstructured due to the complexity of interactions that exist between the health and productivity of the herd, for which there are no ready to hand solutions. Decisions made in the face of these complex herd health problems are often based on the experience and perceptions of what might be a quick or the easiest solution. To shift from this unstructured process to semistructured decision-making requires a more holistic understanding of potential health problems and access to herd productivity information and to analytical methods suitable for examining and evaluating such data. Technological advances in agriculture have made the development of such information technology systems both possible and relatively accessible to decision makers working with dairy herds (e.g., veterinarians). The timely access and appropriate analysis of herd productivity data provides the herd health advisor with the opportunity to track and benchmark the performance of dairy herds. Thus, a decision support system (DSS) will use best available evidence to guide the allocation of resources to specific, most promising herd health interventions. This article presents an example of a DSS-based on collection of data and algorithm of analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- John I Alawneh
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia
| | - Joerg Henning
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia
| | - Timothy W J Olchowy
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia
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18
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Kommedal AT, Wagner D, Hurley K. The Use of a Shelter Software (a) to Track Frequency and Selected Risk Factors for Feline Upper Respiratory Infection. Animals (Basel) 2015; 5:161-72. [PMID: 26479227 PMCID: PMC4494401 DOI: 10.3390/ani5020161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2014] [Accepted: 02/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective-Feline upper respiratory infection (URI) is a common, multi-factorial infectious disease syndrome endemic to many animal shelters. Although a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in shelter cats, URI is seldom formally monitored in shelter cat populations. Without monitoring, effective control and prevention of this often endemic disease is difficult. We looked at an integrated case management software system (a) for animal care organizations, widely used in shelters across the United States. Shelter staff routinely enter information regarding individual animals and disease status, but do not commonly use the software system to track frequency of disease. The purpose of this study was to determine if the software system (a) can be used to track URI frequency and selected risk factors in a population, and to evaluate the quality and completeness of the data as currently collected in a shelter. Design (type of study)-Descriptive Survey. Animals (or Sample)-317 cats in an animal shelter. Procedures-Reports from the software system (a) containing data regarding daily inventory, daily intake, animal identification, location, age, vaccination status, URI diagnosis and URI duration were evaluated. The reports were compared to data collected manually by an observer (Ann Therese Kommedal) to assess discrepancies, completeness, timeliness, availability and accuracy. Data were collected 6 days a week over a 4 week period. Results-Comparisons between the software system (a) reports and manually collected reports showed that 93% of inventory reports were complete and of these 99% were accurate. Fifty-two percent of the vaccination reports were complete, of which 97% were accurate. The accuracy of the software system's age reports was 76%. Two-hundred and twenty-three cats were assigned a positive or negative URI diagnosis by the observer. The predictive value of the URI status in the software system (a) was below 60% both for positive and negative URI diagnosis. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance-data currently collected and entered into the software systems in the study shelter, was not useful for tracking URI frequency and risk factors, due to issues with both data quality and capture. However, the potential exists to increase the practicality and usefulness of this shelter software system to monitor URI and other diseases. Relevant data points, i.e., health status at intake and outcome, vaccination date and status, as well as age, should be made mandatory to facilitate more useful data collection and reporting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Therese Kommedal
- Koret Shelter Medicine Program, Center of Companion Animal Health, University of California, Davis, One Shield Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
| | - Denae Wagner
- Koret Shelter Medicine Program, Center of Companion Animal Health, University of California, Davis, One Shield Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
| | - Kate Hurley
- Koret Shelter Medicine Program, Center of Companion Animal Health, University of California, Davis, One Shield Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
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19
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Mahrt A, Burfeind O, Voigtsberger R, Müller A, Heuwieser W. [Evaluation of a new electronic handheld meter for measurement of β-hydroxybutyric acid in dairy cows]. Tierarztl Prax Ausg G Grosstiere Nutztiere 2014; 42:5-10. [PMID: 24518879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2013] [Accepted: 10/29/2013] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Subclinical ketosis (SCK), an important disease in lactating dairy cows, is defined as the presence of elevated concentrations of circulating ketone bodies without the development of clinical signs. Therefore, diagnostic methods are limited to the detection of the concentrations of ketone bodies in different body fluids. The objective of this study was to evaluate a recently developed electronic hand- held meter (NovaVet) for the determination of β-hydroxybutyric acid (BHB) in the blood of dairy cows. MATERIAL AND METHODS A total of 155 lactating dairy cows were included in the trial. Blood samples were taken from each cow and analyzed using the BHB meter. The obtained concentrations were compared to the results determined by a commercial laboratory. The Spearman's rank correlation coefficient was determined between the two methods. A Wilcoxon test was performed and a Bland-Altman plot was generated. Test characteristics (sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value) for established BHB cut points for the diagnosis of SCK were calculated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. RESULTS The two methods were highly correlated (rs = 0.87; p < 0.05). A difference (median 0.0 mmol/l; interquartile range [IQR] -0.1 to 0.2 mmol/l; p < 0.05) was found between BHB concentrations determined using the BHB meter (median 1.0 mmol/l; IQR 0.7-1.3 mmol/l) and by the laboratory (median 0.9 mmol/l; IQR 0.7-1.1 mmol/l). Using a cut point of 1.2 mmol/l, sensitivity and specificity of the BHB meter were 97% and 82%, respectively. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE There was a good agreement between BHB concentrations determined using the BHB meter and the laboratory. Furthermore, the BHB meter displayed good test characteristics. The specificity of 82% results in a number of false-positive results. However, this new device can be recommended for the detection of SCK in cows under practical conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - W Heuwieser
- W. Heuwieser, Tierklinik für Fortpflanzung, Fachbereich Veterinärmedizin, Freie Universität Berlin, Königsweg 65, 14163 Berlin, E-Mail:
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20
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Mahrt A, Burfeind O, Heuwieser W. Effects of time and sampling location on concentrations of β-hydroxybutyric acid in dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2013; 97:291-8. [PMID: 24210483 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2013-7099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2013] [Accepted: 09/12/2013] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Two trials were conducted to examine factors potentially influencing the measurement of blood β-hydroxybutyric acid (BHBA) in dairy cows. The objective of the first trial was to study effects of sampling time on BHBA concentration in continuously fed dairy cows. Furthermore, we determined test characteristics of a single BHBA measurement at a random time of the day to diagnose subclinical ketosis considering commonly used cut-points (1.2 and 1.4 mmol/L). Finally, we set out to evaluate if test characteristics could be enhanced by repeating measurements after different time intervals. During 4 herd visits, a total of 128 cows (8 to 28 d in milk) fed 10 times daily were screened at 0900 h and preselected by BHBA concentration. Blood samples were drawn from the tail vessels and BHBA concentrations were measured using an electronic BHBA meter (Precision Xceed, Abbott Diabetes Care Ltd., Witney, UK). Cows with BHBA concentrations ≥0.8 mmol/L at this time were enrolled in the trial (n=92). Subsequent BHBA measurements took place every 3h for a total of 8 measurements during 24 h. The effect of sampling time on BHBA concentrations was tested in a repeated-measures ANOVA repeating sampling time. Sampling time did not affect BHBA concentrations in continuously fed dairy cows. Defining the average daily BHBA concentration calculated from the 8 measurements as the gold standard, a single measurement at a random time of the day to diagnose subclinical ketosis had a sensitivity of 0.90 or 0.89 at the 2 BHBA cut-points (1.2 and 1.4 mmol/L). Specificity was 0.88 or 0.90 using the same cut-points. Repeating measurements after different time intervals improved test characteristics only slightly. In the second experiment, we compared BHBA concentrations of samples drawn from 3 different blood sampling locations (tail vessels, jugular vein, and mammary vein) of 116 lactating dairy cows. Concentrations of BHBA differed in samples from the 3 sampling locations. Mean BHBA concentration was 0.3 mmol/L lower when measured in the mammary vein compared with the jugular vein and 0.4 mmol/L lower in the mammary vein compared with the tail vessels. We conclude that to measure BHBA, blood samples of continuously fed dairy cows can be drawn at any time of the day. A single measurement provides very good test characteristics for on-farm conditions. Blood samples for BHBA measurement should be drawn from the jugular vein or tail vessels; the mammary vein should not be used for this purpose.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Mahrt
- Clinic for Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Koenigsweg 65, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - O Burfeind
- Clinic for Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Koenigsweg 65, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - W Heuwieser
- Clinic for Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Koenigsweg 65, 14163 Berlin, Germany.
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Abstract
The area of herd health is particularly important when considering camelid operations because of the high frequency of travel for exhibition, breeding, and boarding. This article outlines the considerations for routine husbandry, facility and animal maintenance, and infectious disease control in the form of biosecurity, vaccination, and health testing that should be included in any farm's herd-health plan. Veterinary input into the design of programs for biosecurity and infectious disease prevention is critical and requires an active veterinary client-patient relationship with identification of the goals of the operation. Risk assessments should be made based on farm activities and should be the foundation for herd-health program design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meredyth Jones
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Kansas State University, 1800 Denison Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502, USA.
| | - Melanie Boileau
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, 1 BVMTH, Farm Road, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
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Abstract
Disease recording of cattle is compulsory in Sweden and Norway. Sweden and Denmark also have mandatory disease recording for swine, whereas Finland and Norway only have compulsory recording of infectious diseases. Both compulsory and voluntary systems are data based, the first ones developed in the 1970's. Disease recording at pig slaughtering is somewhat older. The veterinary practitioner, and often also the farmer, can report treated cases as well as fertility disturbances to the systems. Disease recording at slaughter is carried out by veterinarians and inspection officers. The data bases are handled by the veterinary authorities or the agricultural organisations in each country. Costs are defrayed by the authorities and/or the agricultural industry. The farmers receive periodic reports. Data are stored for three to ten years, often longer. Affiliation to animal health schemes for cattle or swine is voluntary. In Sweden and Denmark (cattle) they are run within the scope of government regulations. Affiliation to animal health programmes may also be demanded by organisations within the agricultural industry. These organisations are also responsible for the administration of the programmes. Costs to take part in herd health schemes are covered by the farmers them-selves. In certain cases, grants are received from agricultural organisations, authorities, or the European Union. Recording of diseases and the format of animal health schemes in the Nordic countries are described here in order to illustrate the possibilities to compare data between countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- S O Olsson
- Swedish Dairy Association, S-631 84 Eskilstuna, Sweden
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23
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Enevoldsen C, Gröhn YT, Thysen I. Skin injuries on the body and thigh of dairy cows: associations with season, claw health, disease treatment, and other cow characteristics. Acta Vet Scand 1994; 35:337-47. [PMID: 7676915 PMCID: PMC8101434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
An epidemiological study was conducted in 18 dairy herds with the objective to characterize those groups of cows where skin injuries to the body and thighs occurred most frequently. Data were analyzed with multivariable logistic regression. The epidemiologic patterns were different in first and later lactations. In first lactation some degree of injury occurred among 7.7% of 1793 cows. For most cows occurrence of sole ulcer was positively associated with injury while occurrence of heel horn erosion was negatively associated with injury. The association between injury and body weight differed depending on month of calving (significant interaction). Injuries occurred most frequently among high yielding cows. Severe reproductive, metabolic, and/or infectious diseases were associated with injuries. In later lactations some degree of injury occurred among 13.4% of 832 cows in lactations 2 to 9 where severity of injury increased with lactation number. Injuries occurred least frequently at examinations made in the January to March. They occurred most frequently among cows with sole ulcers. Calving in March through October was associated with injuries especially if the cows were treated for limb disorders. Most cases of injuries occurred early or late in lactation or among high or very low yielding cows in lactations 2 to 9.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Enevoldsen
- National Institute of Animal Science (NIAS), Tjele, Denmark
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