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Copyright of Canadian Journal of Animal Science is the property of Canadian Science Publishing and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The article focuses on a study related to the examination of meat quality and health of pigs which is transported for two hours using two vehicle types during two seasons of the year. According to the study, type of vehicle, animal location in the truck and the seasonal variation affect the health of pigs during transportation. It further states that researchers used pot-belly trailer (PB) and a hydraulic double-decked truck (DD) in order to assess the affect of vehicle on pork quality.

Copyright of Canadian Journal of Animal Science is the property of Canadian Science Publishing and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Canadian Journal of Animal Science is the property of Canadian Science Publishing and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Climatic conditions in Canada show extreme seasonal variation, and thermal conditions during transport are known to contribute to mortality during transport. However, little information has been published on transport conditions in Canada. In this study, temperature and relative humidity were monitored on commercial livestock trucks transporting pigs to market in eastern and western Canada. In the western trials, pigs traveled for 8 h in a dual-purpose pot-belly (PB) trailer, and in the eastern trials pigs were transported for 2 h in either a PB trailer or a double-deck (DD) truck. In the west, three trials were done in winter and five in summer; in the east, six trials were done in both summer and winter. Delta temperature (T) and delta humidity ratio (HR) were calculated versus ambient conditions during transport for each truck compartment. Mixed model analyses of compartment conditions (delta T and delta HR) within each truck showed that significant variation existed between compartments in both the PB trailer and the DD truck (p < 0.0001). For all vehicles, delta T and delta HR were generally higher (p < 0.05) in lower-front compartments and lower (p < 0.05) in upper-rear compartments in both summer and winter. The results indicate that transport conditions may be improved by increasing ventilation to targeted compartments in summer, or by a combination of insulation and ventilation in winter. Considering the impact of thermal conditions during transport on pig welfare and mortality, further investigation of truck conditions and ways of ameliorating them is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the current shift in the industry toward housing pigs in groups of 100 to 1,000 per pen have come questions as to whether pigs can perform as well in large groups as they do in small and whether large groups of pigs can use the space provided more efficiently. This study examined effects of small (18 pigs) vs. large (108 pigs) group sizes provided 0.52 m²/ pig (crowded) or 0.78 m²/pig (uncrowded) of space on production, health, behavior, and physiological variables. Eight 7-to 8-wk-long blocks, each involving 288 pigs, were completed. The average BW at the beginning of the study was 37.4 ± 0.26 kg. Overall, ADG was 1.032 kg/d and 1.077 (±0.015) kg/d for crowded and uncrowded pigs, respectively (P = 0.018). Differences between the space allowance treatments were most evident during the final week of study. Overall G:F was also reduced (P = 0.002) in the crowded treatment. Pigs in the crowded groups spent less (P = 0.003) time eating over the 8-wk study than did pigs in noncrowded groups, but ADFI did not differ (P = 0.34) between treatments. Overall, ADG of large-group pigs was 1.035 kg/d, whereas small group pigs gained 1.073 kg/d (±0.015; P = 0.039). Average daily gain differences between the group sizes were most evident during the first 2 wk of the study. Over the entire study, G:F also differed, with large groups being less efficient (P = 0.005) than small groups. Although large-group pigs had poorer scores for lameness (P = 0.012) and leg scores (P = 0.02) throughout the 8-wk period, morbidity levels did not differ (P = 0.32) between the group sizes. Minimal changes in postural behavior and feeding patterns were noted in large groups. An interaction (P = 0.04) of group size and space allowance for lameness indicated that pigs housed in large groups at restricted space allowances were more susceptible to lameness. Although some behavioral variables, such as lying postures, suggest that pigs in large groups were able to use space more efficiently, overall productivity and health variables indicate that pigs in large and small groups were similarly affected by the crowding imposed in this study. Broken-line analysis of ADG indicated no difference in the response to crowding by pigs in large and small groups. Little support was found for reducing space allowances for pigs in large groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The incidence of belly nosing-related behaviors was studied in 480 piglets weaned at 14 d and provided with environmental enrichment during preweaning, postweaning, or both. Pen enrichment was achieved by providing a foam rubber mat on the pen wall (nose), rubber nipples (suck), a Bite-Rite Tail Chew (bite), a soil-filled tray (root), or no enrichment (control). Instantaneous scan sampling observations, at 5-min intervals, were conducted for 8 h (i.e., 96 scans/observation day) at 3, 10, 19, 26, and 33 d. Observations during the preweaning phase were made to determine the number of piglets lying, standing, nursing, and interacting with environmental enrichment. During the postweaning phase, observations were made to determine the number of piglets belly nosing, belly sucking, other nosing and sucking (other), biting, eating, drinking, and interacting with enrichment. The time-course for belly nosing was confirmed, with the behavior rising by 19 d, peaking by 26 d, and decreasing by 33 d (P < 0.001). Only nosing enrichment was found to reduce the incidence of belly-nosing behavior (3.8%) compared with controls (6.6%; P < 0.001). Pigs provided root enrichment spent more time manipulating their enrichment devices (30.2%) compared with all other enrichment groups (P < 0.001). Providing enrichment relevant to a particular behavioral vice as it commences, or shortly afterward, may have the greatest effect on reducing the incidence of that vice during the nursery period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three experiments were conducted to assess water intake, water wastage, and a means to decrease water wastage by growing-finishing pigs from nipple drinkers. In Exp. 1,48 pigs were studied during two periods (average BW = 53 and 72 kg for Period 1 and 2, respectively). Water disappearance and wastage were determined for 4 d, while nipple drinkers were set at 50 mm above the shoulder height of the smallest pig in the pen (recommended heights), with flow rates at 700 mL/min during Period 1, and 1,000 mL/min during Period 2. Water intake rate was assessed at two nipple flow rates, approximately 650 and 1,300 mL/min during the Period 1, and 1,000 and 2,000 mL/min during the Period 2. The average water intake was 4.01 and 5.38 ± 0.19 L·pig-1·d-1 during Periods 1 and 2, respectively (P < 0.01). Water wastage as a percentage of water disappearance was similar between the two periods (25.8 and 27.0 ± 1.9% for Periods 1 and 2, respectively). Water intake rate was 467 and 795 mL/min (±34.2; P < 0.01) during Period 1, and 722 and 1,422 mL/min (±80.0; P < 0.01) during Period 2, at the lower and higher flow rates, respectively. In Exp. 2, 32 pigs were used in a 2 x 2 factorial design to determine effects of nipple heights (recommended vs. unadjusted = 330 mm) and flow rates (500 vs. 1,000 mL/min) on water intake and wastage. Water wastage was increased (P < 0.01) on the unadjusted vs. recommended nipple height, and the higher flow rate also resulted in greater wastage (P = 0.03) compared with the lower rate. In Exp. 3, water disappearance and manure output in 16 pens of 18 pigs per pen were monitored for 12 wk (average initial BW = 32 kg) using four drinker treatments (bowl drinker, nipple drinker at recommended heights, an unadjusted nipple set at 480 mm, and high nipple drinker height of 730 mm with a step underneath). For pigs on the high nipple drinker, the average water disappearance and manure output did not differ from those of the pigs on the recommended nipple heights and bowl drinker, but these measurements were 15 and 12% lower, respectively, than for the pigs on the low nipple drinker. The results indicate that growing-finishing pigs can maintain adequate water intake from a variety of drinker types and management. Water wastage can be controlled through drinker management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two experiments were done to assess the effects of season, truck type, and location in the truck on the gastrointestinal tract temperature (GTT) of market-weight pigs during transport. In Exp. 1, a total of 504 sentinel pigs were selected from a total load of 3,756 pigs over 12 wk in summer or winter and transported in either a double-decked (DD) hydraulic truck or a pot-belly (PB) trailer for 2 h. In Exp. 2, a total of 330 sentinel pigs were selected from a total load of 2,145 pigs over 11 wk in summer or winter and transported in a PB trailer for 8 h. In both experiments, sentinel pigs were equipped with a temperature data logger for the real-time GTT recording from the farm to slaughter. Transport was divided into 8 periods in Exp. 1 (rest, pretravel, initial travel, prearrival 1, prearrival 2, unloading, lairage 1, and lairage 2]) and in Exp. 2 (rest, pretravel 1, pretravel 2, travel, prearrival 1, prearrival 2, lairage 1, and lairage 2). A delta GTT (?GTT) was calculated as the difference between the measured GTT at any determined event and the GTT measured at rest. In Exp. 1, the ?GTT of pigs was greater (P < 0.001) in summer than in winter and only during the pretravel and initial travel periods. No difference was observed in the ΔGTT between the 2 truck types (P > 0.10). In summer, pigs located in the front top and rear top compartments of the PB trailer presented greater (P < 0.05) ?GTT values than those transported in the middle top and front belly compartments during initial travel. In summer, during prearrival 1 and 2, a greater (P < 0.05) loss of GTT was found in pigs located in the rear top compartment of the DD truck compared with the rear lower compartment and in the front middle compartment compared with the rear middle compartment of the PB trailer. In Exp. 2, the ?GTT of pigs was greater (P = 0.03) in summer than in winter during pretravel 2. Pigs in the front top compartment had a greater (P < 0.05) ?GTT compared with pigs in the middle top, lower deck, and front belly compartments during the pretravel periods. Based on the results of the 2 experiments, modifications of the PB trailer model are recommended to limit body temperature increase due to physical stress at loading and unloading, and during transport due to inconsistent ventilation rate across vehicle locations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to assess the effects of the season, travel duration and trailer compartment location on blood creatine-kinase (CK), lactate and cortisol concentrations in 384 pigs and assess their relationships with trailer temperature, heart rate and gastrointestinal tract temperature (GTT), behavior, carcass damage scores and meat quality. Blood CK was greater in pigs transported in summer ( p = 0.02), after 18 h transportation ( p < 0.001) and in pigs located in C4, C5 and C10 ( p = 0.002). In winter, the concentration of blood lactate was higher ( p = 0.04) in pigs transported for 6 h in C5. Pigs located in C10 showed higher ( p = 0.01) concentration of cortisol than those transported for 18h in C4 in summer. The highest correlations were between blood cortisol and GTT ( r = 0.53; p < 0.001), and between blood CK and GTT ( r = 0.41; p < 0.001), truck temperature ( r = 0.42; p < 0.001), and pH u in the longissimus muscle ( r = 0.41; p < 0.001). In conclusion, although increased blood cortisol and CK levels appear to indicate a physical stress condition in transported pigs, the weak to moderate correlations with environmental and other animal welfare indicators suggest that blood stress parameters can only be used as a complementary measurement in the assessment of the pigs' response to transport stress.

The objective was to assess sows' lameness by measuring weight distribution on limbs using a force plate made up of 4 individual platforms each resting on 4 single-ended beam load cells. The weight was recorded at an average rate of 14 readings per s over a 15 min period. Ten sows (5 lame sows and 5 sound sows) were weighed twice on 2 different days to assess the repeatability of the measure. Sixty-one sows were then selected in 2 different sites and visually scored for lameness, using a 3-point scoring system (0 = normal gait; 1 = abnormal gait, and/or stiffness; and 2 = shortened stride, and/or the sow puts less weight or avoids putting weight on 1 leg). Various measures were recorded from each sow using the force plate (percentage of weight, the ratio between the weights applied by contralateral legs, weight shifting, and amplitude of weight bearing and weight removing), kinematics (speed, stride length, swing time, stance time, foot height, and carpal and tarsal joints angle average and amplitude), and accelerometers (time spent standing during 24 h, frequency of stepping behavior during feeding, and latency to lie down after feed delivery). The within-sow CV for each measure taken from the force plate were lower than 15%, which reflects a good repeatability. Among force plate measures, only the weight shifting frequency and the ratio between the weights applied by contralateral legs differed between lameness scores. Sows that scored 2 had a higher frequency of weight shifting for fore legs (P = 0.0003) and hind legs (P = 0.0007) than sows scored 0 and 1. The ratio between the weights applied by contralateral legs decreased with the increase of lameness score for the hind limbs (P = 0.014). However, these measures also differed between sites (P < 0.01). These differences may be due to various reasons, including but not limited to genetics and housing systems. Nevertheless, the results suggest that force plate measures such as the asymmetry in the weight applied between a pair of legs and weight shifting are good indicators of lameness. Multivariate analysis on fore and hind legs showed independency between variables related to animals in movement (measures from kinematics) and variables related to static animals (measures from the force plate and accelerometers). Therefore, both static and dynamic methods need to be used to detect various lame sows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The process of transportation can be seen as a succession of stressors, from which pigs may not have time to recover before slaughter. The aim of this study was to determine the extent to which the duration of the rest time given to near-market-weight pigs after an initial exposure to exercise affected their recovery from subsequent exercise. Eighteen groups of 3 gilts were exercised (Ex1) through a standard handling course, including two 19° ramps, and then were held in a holding pen for either 35 (RT35), 75 (RT75), or 150 (RT150) min (Rest Period 1, RP1). Afterward, pigs were exercised a second time (Ex2) and left to rest for 150 min. Recovery from Ex2 (Rest Period 2, RP2) was assessed using measures of heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), skin temperature (ST), and posture. Repeated measures and regression analysis were used to analyze the data. For RT75 pigs, there were no detrimental effects of Ex2 on HR, RR, and handling time (P > 0.05, for all) during the exercise and recovery periods. Skin temperature during Ex2 was greater than ST during Ex1 (P < 0.001), whereas ST during RP1 did not differ from ST during RP2 (P > 0.05). Doubling the rest period did not provide any more beneficial effects in regard to RR and HR (P > 0.05 for both) during Ex2 and RP2 compared to RT75 pigs, as shown by the similar latencies to recover for these 2 variables. However, ST did not increase between exercises, and RT150 pigs required less time to complete the handling course during Ex2. The results show that a lack of rest after an initial exposure to exercise made pigs more susceptible to stress during Ex2 and RP2, as demonstrated by greater (P < 0.001 for all) HR, RR, and ST during RP2 compared to RP1 and Ex2 compared to Ex1. When given more than 35 min to rest during RP2, RT35 pigs eventually recovered. Latencies of recovery for HR, ST, RR, and posture were all greater (P < 0.05 for HR, ST, and RR and P < 0.001 for posture) than those obtained for RT75 and RT150 pigs. This study highlights that if pigs are not initially given enough rest to recover from exercise, a subsequent exposure to the same exercise will cause an increase in these physiological variables during exercise and recovery. Further research is needed to investigate factors contributing to the quality of rest, with a particular focus on conditions not allowing a proper rest on the truck or in lairage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Welfare and meat quality of market-weight pigs may be negatively affected by transport duration and environmental temperatures, which vary considerably between seasons. This study evaluated the effects of 3 transport durations (6, 12, and 18 h) on the physiology and behavior of pigs in summer and winter in western Canada. Market-weight pigs were transported using a pot-belly trailer at an average loading density of 0.375 m²/100 kg. Four replicates of each transport duration were conducted during each season. Heart rate and gastrointestinal tract temperature (GTT) were monitored from loading to unloading in 16 pigs from 4 selected trailer compartments (n = 96 groups, total of 384 ani-mals, BW = 120.8 ± 0.4 kg), namely top front (CI), top back (C4), middle front (C5), and bottom rear (C10). Behavior was recorded for pigs (948 and 924 animals, in summer and winter, respectively) in Cl, C4, and C5 during transportation (standing, sitting, lying), and during 90 min in lairage (sitting, lying, drinking, latency to rest) for pigs in all 4 compartments. Transport was split into 7 periods: loading, pre-travel (PT), initial travel (IT), pre-arrival 1 (PA1) and 2 (PA2), unloading, and lairage. During IT and PA2, pigs spent less time lying in winter than summer (P < 0.05 and P < 0.05, respec-tively). During PA1, PA2, and unloading, a greater (P < 0.001) heart rate was found in pigs transported in win-ter compared with summer. During PA2, pigs subjected to the 18-h transport treatment in winter had a greater (P < 0.05) GTT than the other groups. In lairage, pigs transported for 18 h in winter drank more (P < 0.001) and took longer to rest (P <0.01) than pigs from other groups. During PA1, pigs transported for 18 h had the greatest GTT (P < 0.001). At unloading, pigs transport-ed for 6 h had the lowest GTT (P < 0.001). In lairage, pigs transported for 18 h spent less time lying than those transported for 6 or 12 h (P < 0.001). These results sug-gest that in winter, pigs increased their metabolism and were reluctant to rest on cold floors. Pigs transported for 18 h in winter showed greater evidence of thirst. It may be concluded that under western Canadian climatic con-ditions, long transports (18 h) in cold weather appear to be more detrimental to pig welfare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three experiments, each using 280 pigs, were conducted in a simulated compartment to test the effect of angle of entrance (AOE) to the ramp (90°, 60°, 30°, or 0°), ramp slope (0°, 16°, 2 Io, or 26°), and an ini-tial 20-cm step associated with 16° or 21° ramp slopes on the ease of handling, heart rate (HR), and behavior of near market-weight pigs during unloading. Heart rate (pigs and handler), unloading time, interventions of the handler, and reactions of the pigs were monitored. The results of the first experiment show that using a 90° AOE had detrimental effects on ease of handling (P < 0.05), HR of the pig (P < 0.05), and behavior (P < 0.05). The 0° and 30° AOE appeared to improve the ease of unload-ing, whereas the 60° AOE had an intermediate effect. The 30° AOE appeared to be preferable, because pigs moved at this angle balked less frequently (P< 0.01) and required less manipulation (P < 0.05) than pigs moved with a 0° AOE. The results of the second experiment show that the use of a flat ramp led to the easiest unload-ing, as demonstrated by the lower number of balks (P < 0.001) when pigs were moved to the ramp and less fre-quent use of paddle (P = 0.001 ) or voice (P < 0.001 ) on the ramp, compared with the other treatments. However, the flat ramp did not differ from the 21° ramp in many of the variables reflecting ease of handling, which may be explained by the difference in configuration between the ramps. The results also show that the use of the steepest ramp slope had the most detrimental effect on balking and backing up behavior of pigs (P < 0.001), and han-dling (touches, slaps, and pushes; P < 0.05 for all) when moved to the ramp and on unloading time (P < 0.01 ). No differences in pig HR (P < 0.05) and ease of handling on the ramp (P < 0.05) were found between a 26° and 16° ramp slope, suggesting that the length of the ramp may be one of the factors that make unloading more difficult. The results of the last experiment show that an initial step made unloading physically more demanding for the handler (P < 0.001) and pigs on the ramp (P < 0.05) as demonstrated by their greater HR. The greater diffi-culty of handling (P < 0.01 ) and reluctance to move (P < 0.05) of pigs moved toward the 16° ramp with a step suggest that pigs perceived this ramp as more psycho-logically challenging. Making a few changes in terms of the design of the ramp could improve the efficiency of handling and reduce stress in pigs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transportation of pigs to slaughter has the potential to negatively impact animal welfare, particularly in hot temperatures and over long transport durations. The objective of this experiment was to determine if season and location within vehicle influenced the behavior of market-weight pigs during loading, transit, unloading, and lairage after a long-distance trip to slaughter. On a pot-belly truck, 1,170 pigs were transported (n = 195 pigs/wk in 7 experimental compartments) for 8 h to a commercial abattoir in summer (6 wk) and winter (5 wk). Pig behavior was observed at loading, in transit, at unloading, and in lairage. Handler intervention at loading was observed, and the time to load and unload was recorded. Although season did not (P = 0.91) affect loading time, more prods (P = 0.014) were necessary to load pigs in summer than winter. Loading in winter also tended to be longer (P = 0.071) into compartments involving internal ramps. In transit, more pigs (P = 0.025) were standing in winter compared with summer. Unloading took longer (P < 0.006) in winter than in summer and from compartments where pigs had to negotiate ramps and 180° turns. Furthermore, pigs in summer experienced more slipping (P = 0.032), falling (P = 0.004), overlapping (P < 0.001), and walking backward (P < 0.001) than pigs in winter. Pigs unloading from compartments with internal ramps slipped more (P < 0.0001) than other pigs. Season influenced latency to rest in lairage, with those transported in summer resting sooner (P < 0.0001) than those in winter. In conclusion, season and location within trucks differentially affect pig behavior before, during, and after long-distance transportation. Differences in lighting and temperature between seasons and the inclusion of internal ramps within vehicles may play important roles in the welfare of pigs transported to slaughter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is evidence that season and truck/trailer design play important roles in pig welfare during transportation although little is known about their interaction and effect on pig behavior. This experiment was designed to examine the influence of season and truck/trailer design on the behavior during loading, transit, unloading, and lairage of market-weight pigs transported to slaughter. A total of 3,756 pigs were transported on either a 3-deck pot-belly trailer (PB; n = 181 pigs/wk in 8 experimental compartments) or a double-decker hydraulic truck (DD; n = 85 pigs/wk in 4 compartments) for 2 h to a commercial abattoir in summer and winter (6 wk in each season). Density on both vehicles was 0.40 m²/pig. Accounting for the number of pigs, loading took longer (P = 0.033) onto the DD than the PB, but season did not (P = 0.571) influence loading time. Pigs loaded onto the PB moved backward more (P = 0.003) frequently than those loaded onto the DD. The frequency of tapping by handler was the lone handling intervention affected by truck type, with more (P = 0.014) tapping needed to move pigs on and off DD than PB. During loading, pigs made more (P < 0.001) slips and falls, overlaps, 180° turns, underlaps, and vocalizations in winter compared with summer. On truck, more (P < 0.001) pigs were standing on the DD at the farm and in transit than on the PB whereas more (P = 0.012) pigs were lying in transit in summer than in winter. Pigs took longer to unload (P < 0.001) from the PB than the DD, but no difference between vehicles (P = 0.473) in latency to rest in lairage was found. Pigs slipped and fell more (P < 0.001) during unloading, took longer (P < 0.001) to unload, and had a shorter (P = 0.006) latency to rest in lairage in winter than summer. Vehicle design, in particular the presence of ramps, influenced pig behavior before, during, and after transportation, regardless of the season. Season affected loading and unloading behavior, especially in terms o slips and falls on the ramp, and differences in truck/trailer designs were also partly to blame for unloading times and lairage behavior. Ramps and changes in direction during unloading appear to slow down the handling process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although there is increasing evidence regarding the negative welfare and meat quality implications of electric prod use for slaughter-weight pigs, this handling tool continues to be used. Therefore, the behavioral and physiological response and carcass and meat quality of 360 pigs being loaded onto a truck for transportation to slaughter according to 3 handling procedures were studied. The 3 handling procedures were 1) moving with an electric prod and board from the finishing pen to the truck (EP); 2) moving with a board and a paddle from the finishing pen to the truck (PAD); 3) moving with a board and a paddle from the finishing pen and using a compressed air prod in the ramp before going into the truck (CAP). A subpopulation of 144 pigs (48 pigs/treatment) was equipped with heart rate monitors. Blood samples were collected from the same animals at exsanguination for the analysis of creatine phosphokinase and lactate. Data were analyzed using an ANOVA for factorial design, with the animal as the experimental unit. Behavior was analyzed with MIXED model procedure with treatment as a fixed effect. During loading, EP pigs slipped and fell (P < 0.001) and overlapped (P = 0.03) more often, but stopped (P < 0.001) and attempted turns (P = 0.01) less often than CAP or PAD. With CAP, pigs made more 180° turns (P = 0.01) than with PAD or EP. Loading with EP led to more and longer vocalizations (P = 0.02 and P = 0.001, respectively) than loading with CAP or PAD. Loading took longest with CAP and was quickest with EP (P = 0.01). Pigs handled with EP had a greater heart rate than those moved with PAD and CAP at loading (P < 0.001), wait at loading (P < 0.001), at unloading (P = 0.05), and in lairage (P = 0.02). Pigs loaded with EP had greater (P = 0.05) lactate concentrations in blood at exsanguination compared with pigs handled with CAP, with pigs loaded with PAD being intermediate. Furthermore, ultimate pH values in the semimembranosus and adductor muscles of EP pigs were greater (P = 0.002 and P = 0.004, respectively) compared with those from PAD and CAP pigs. Greater (P = 0.04) incidence of blood-splashed hams was found in EP pigs compared with PAD and CAP pigs. Therefore, considering animal welfare, carcass bruising, and blood splashes standpoints, EP should be replaced with PAD or CAP. However, additional research is necessary to identify methods that improve the loading efficiencies of PAD and CAP without adversely affecting animal welfare parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three experiments were conducted to investigate the short-term use of supplementary Trp on the behavior of grow/finish pigs. Three levels of dietary Trp were used, representing the standard requirement for growth (control), twice (2×), and 4 times (4×) the control amount. In Exp. 1, pigs were fed the diets for 7 d, during which observations were made of their general behavior (time budget), aggression within the group of familiar pigs, and response to a startling auditory stimulus. Behavior effects were evident during the period of supplementation for both the 2× and 4× diets. During the treatment period, pigs fed supplemental Trp spent more time lying (P = 0.04) and less time eating (P = 0.05) than pigs fed the control diet. Although the response of the animals to the startling stimulus was to become alert and stand, similar behavioral effects caused by supplemental Trp also were evident after the startling stimulus (P < 0.01). Based on these observations, the subsequent studies retained the same dietary levels of Trp and incorporated a 3-d feeding of diets before behavior testing. In Exp. 2, pigs were fed the experimental diets for 3 d before being regrouped with unfamiliar pigs on the same diet. Subsequent aggression was affected by Trp supplementation, in that high levels of dietary Trp decreased the total duration of fighting by approximately 50% (P = 0.03). Supplemental Trp had no effect on the number of fights, and there were no differences between the 2 levels of supplemental Trp on any behavior. In Exp. 3, pigs were exposed to specific handling tests on the farm and meat quality assessments after being fed the experimental diets for 3 d. There were no differences among dietary treatments for any of the meat quality characteristic variables measured. The only behavioral or physiological difference observed among the treatments was a slower movement of pigs fed the 4× Trp treatment than control or 2× Trp-fed pigs in a minimal-forced situation (P = 0.04). Response to confinement on a scale, an electric prod, and movement in general did not differ among treatments. High levels of Trp may result in animals avoiding stressful situations if possible, but they seem to have no effect on responses to stressors that animals may experience in a forced situation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heat stress is a problem that negatively affects animal welfare, health, and the productive efficiency of pigs. The objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of the trailer microclimate on some physiological, behavioral, and meat pH of fattening pigs during short‐duration journeys. Eight journeys (n = 216 pigs) of short duration (51.6 km and 1.5 h), originating from the same farm, were evaluated with a stocking density of 0.57 (±0.04) m2/100 kg (mean BW: 116.1 ± 7.52 kg). The thermal profile of the load (THI) was recorded in the four compartments of the truck. Upon arrival at the slaughterhouse, unloading was evaluated, and the percentage of nonambulatory pigs, mortality, and body temperature were recorded. Blood samples were obtained during exsanguination and the pH45 was measured. Overall, THI values recorded in all four compartments were below the threshold considered conducive to heat stress in pigs (23.9°C and THI ≤ 74). Serum concentrations of cortisol and the neutrophil/lymphocyte (N/L) ratio were above concentrations considered normal for the species (p < 0.05) and no significant differences were observed in average meat pH45 values according to the truck compartment (p > 0.05). The planning of transport in the morning hours and the consideration of the thermal environment of the truck is essential to reduce heat stress, economic losses, and negative effects on meat quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to the modern perspective on evaluating animal welfare, it is important to consider both negative and positive experiences. This study investigated the impact of group composition and environmental enrichments on the behaviours of free-ranging pigs, focusing on anxiety-related behaviours, aggression, affiliation, post-conflict affiliation, excavation, and non-invasive exploration activities. Data were collected on three different groups (allfemale: N=10; all-male: N=13; mixed-sex: N=12) of free-ranging pigs raised in a natural woodland habitat at the ethical farm "Parva Domus" (Turin, Italy). To evaluate the impact of environmental enrichment, further data collection was carried out on the mixed-sex group under three different enrichment conditions (absence; dry leaves; straw) provided in a rotational scheme. Group composition did not affect levels of anxiety-related behaviours, aggression, and non-invasive exploration. However, it did impact other social aspects (affiliation: One-way ANOVA: p=0.003; post-conflict affiliation: Kruskal-Wallis: p=0.005). In particular, the mixed-sex and the all-male groups showed higher levels of affiliation than the all-female group and the mixed-sex group showed higher levels of post-conflict affiliation than the all-male group. Moreover, we found differences in excavation behaviour levels (Kruskal-Wallis: p=0.001), with higher levels of excavation behaviour in the mixed-sex group compared to the allfemale group. Regarding the impact of enrichments, we found differences in levels of anxiety-related behaviours (One-way ANOVA: p = 0.046), affiliation (One-way ANOVA: p = 0.006), excavation (One-way ANOVA: p<0.001), and non-invasive exploration activities (One-way ANOVA: p<0.001). In enrichment conditions with straw, we found a significant decrease in anxiety-related, affiliation, and excavation behaviours levels, and a significant increase in noninvasive exploration behaviours. A trend with lower levels of aggression was observed in straw enrichment condition compared to the absence of enrichment, although the difference was not significant. Moreover, there were no differences in post-conflict affiliation frequencies. Our findings suggest that forming mixed-sex groups and providing environmental enrichments such as the straw could be suitable solutions to effectively reduce invasive excavation behaviours without preventing pigs from expressing their natural behavioural repertoire, thus maintaining high standards of animal welfare. This study highlights behavioural aspects to be considered in extensive farming, confirming the importance of ethology as a tool for assessing pig welfare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tail biting is a multifactorial behavior that causes welfare and economic challenges in swine production. As of 2024, research exploring the influence of pig social structure on the development of tail biting is limited. The objective of this study was to explore whether social structures of pigs from different litter origins can impact tail biting and, ultimately, tail damage. Pigs (n = 96) were grouped (eight pigs/pen) based on their litter origin: non-littermates (NLM), half-littermates, and littermates (LM). Tail injury scores were assessed twice weekly from 10 to 24 weeks of age, with a maximal tail injury score (MTS) over the study period being used to evaluate victimization by tail biting. Pig behavior was video-recorded at 15, 19, and 23 weeks of age. Association networks based on lying behavior and tail biting interaction networks were evaluated at penand pig-levels using social network analysis. Pigs in LM pens experienced higher median MTS compared to pigs in NLM pens (Median = 1.5; Interquartile range = 1-2; p = 0.009). Within association networks, NLM pens had lower degree centralization measures than other pens at both 15 (Estimated marginal mean [EMM] = 0.07; 95% CI = 0.02-0.12; p = 0.003) and 23 weeks (EMM = 0.09; 95% CI = 0.04-0.14; p = 0.01) and pigs in NLM pens had higher weighted degree centrality than those in other pens (EMM = 1.00; 95% CI = 0.90-1.11; p = 0.002), suggesting pigs in NLM pens had more uniform, stronger, and more connections with their pen-mates. In tail biting networks, increased weighted in-degree centrality was associated with increased odds of pigs receiving a more severe MTS (OR = 1.56; 95% CI = 1.08-2.27; p = 0.02). Pigs with increased weighted out-degree centrality tended to have increased odds of receiving a more severe MTS (OR = 1.19; 95% CI = 0.97-1.48; p = 0.09). These preliminary data suggest a potential relationship between social structures and tail biting in growing-finishing pigs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hygienically safe drinking water is essential for the health, well-being, and efficient production of livestock. In contrast to drinking water for human consumption, there are guidelines but no legal limits for drinking water for animals. Risk factors due to hygienically relevant microorganisms or chemical compounds in drinking water are known from literature, but there is little information on the quality of drinking water for livestock in Germany. To gain an overview of the quality of drinking water, data from samples collected from pig and poultry farms in Northwest Germany over a 10-year period were analyzed retrospectively. Data consisted of 326 samples analyzed chemically, and 519 samples analyzed microbiologically. Of these, 80 water samples were analyzed for both chemical and microbial contaminants. There was no correlation between samples exceeding chemical and microbial guideline levels. The number of samples exceeding the chemical guideline values (58.0%) was higher than the number of samples exceeding the microbiological guideline values (47.4%). This long-term study illustrated the potential risk to pigs and poultry from drinking water and highlights the need for effective hygiene measures to prevent the transmission of microorganisms and chemicals residues through water to maintain animal health and safe food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A total of 2,145 pigs were transported for 8 h in summer (six trips) and winter (five trips) using a pot-belly trailer accommodating pigs in four locations (upper deck or UD, bottom-nose or BN, middle deck or MD and bottom deck or BD). Heart rate of pigs during loading and transportation and lactate and creatine kinase (CK) concentrations in exsanguination blood were measured. Meat quality was evaluated in the Longissimus thoracis (LT), Semimembranosus (SM) and Adductor (AD) muscles. During summer, pigs loaded in the UD and MD had higher (P < 0.05) heart rate at loading compared to those located in the BD and BN. Blood lactate and CK concentrations were higher (P < 0.001) in winter than in summer. Lactate concentration was higher (P = 0.01) in the blood of pigs transported in the BN. Pigs transported in the BN had higher pHu values in the LT, SM and AD muscles (P = 0.02, P < 0.001 and P = 0.002, respectively) and lower (P = 0.002) drip loss values in the SM muscle. This study confirms that some locations within the PB trailer have a negative impact on the welfare of pigs at loading and during transport with more pronounced effects in the winter due to the additive effect of cold stress.

Dogs exhibit human-analogue attachment to their owners, with similar function and mechanisms to that of infant-mother bond, but its origin is unclear. Comparative studies on socialised wolves and dogs emphasise genetic influence in dogs' preparedness for attachment to humans. We aimed to reveal if this genetic effect stems from general domestication or artificial selection that increased dogs' dependence on humans. We assessed and compared behavioural patterns of young companion pigs and dogs using a Strange Situation Test. Dogs but not pigs exhibited distinct behaviours towards their owner and a stranger along attachment-specific variables, so only dogs’ relevant behaviours fulfilled attachment criteria. From the observed behaviours, three factors were formed: Attachment (to the owner), Anxiety (in a strange situation), and Acceptance (of a stranger). Results indicate (1) higher Attachment scores in dogs than pigs, (2) greater Acceptance scores in pigs, (3) positive correlation of Attachment and Anxiety in both, (4) similar time tendency of pigs' Attachment and Acceptance scores. These suggest that in pigs, domestication and early exposure to human social stimuli did not trigger attachment to humans. Thus, along with species predispositions, the unique dog-owner attachment can be facilitated by artificial selection that increased dogs' dependence on humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Weaning is one of the most stressful events in pigs as this affects their health, growth performance and welfare especially during the first week post-weaning. Early weaning exposes weanling pigs to severe weaning stress. Therefore, this study assessed the effects of different weaning regimes on weanling pigs' growth, stress and behavioural responses. Seventy-two weanling pigs, allotted to three treatments in 6 replicates in a completely randomised design, were used for this study. The weanling pigs were weaned at four weeks (T1), six weeks (T2) and eight weeks (T3) and involved in the study immediately after weaning. Growth performance (feed intake, weight gain and feed conversion ratio - FCR), stress indices (corticosterone, white blood cell - WBC) and behavioural indices (feeding and aggressive behaviour) were measured for 6 weeks, twelve days and ten days post-weaning, respectively. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and ANOVA at a 0.05. Feed conversion ratio of weanling pigs in T1 (2.42 ± 0.09) was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than in T2 (2.23 ± 0.15) and T3 (2.22 ± 0.10) groups. Corticosterone concentration in the weanling pigs ranged from 55.83 ng/ml (T1) to 48.31 ng/ml (T3) on day 3, from 45.58 ng/ml (T2) to 45.42 ng/ml (T1 and T3) on day 9, and from 46.52 ng/ml (T1) to 45.25 ng/ml (T2) on day 12. The white blood cell (WBC) count in the weanling pigs in T1 (8.83 ± 0.07 × 103 µl) was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than in T2 (8.53 ± 0.12 × 103 µl) and in T3 (8.62 ± 0.14 × 103 µl) on day 0. The values obtained for days 6, 9 and 12 demonstrated the same trend. Feeding behaviour showed that weanling pigs in T1 spent lesser time feeding than in T2 and T3 groups. The values ranged from 41.72 % (T1) to 70.31 % (T3). Weanling pigs in the T1 group showed more aggression towards pen mates for the first 3 days compared to T2 and T3 groups. The values ranged from 0.52 % (T3) to 9.24 % (T1). In conclusion, this study revealed that different weaning regimes have varying effects on the performance and welfare of pigs. It is important to carefully consider the weaning regimes implemented in pig production to minimize stress and promote healthy growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Segregated early weaning (SEW), introduced with the objectives of eradicating or controlling diseases and improving performance, is becoming increasingly popular among producers. The main features of SEW are weaning piglets early and moving the newly weaned piglets to a site isolated from the sows and other animals. In this article, we describe the key features of SEW and factors leading to its development. We review some of the main welfare issues involved with raising pigs in this way. We describe experiments that were crucial in the development of SEW and that showed positive effects on the health status and weight gain of piglets. We also review experiments that indicated welfare problems associated with this system. Specifically, we look at the effects of early weaning on the behavior and well-being of piglets. In addition, we look at other features of SEW, such as repeated cross-fostering and transport of young piglets. We provide directions for future research and offer recommendations for producers.

In intensive pig production, the fighting behavior of weaning piglets after merging pens is relatively common. Fighting behavior not only easily causes injury in pigs but also affects the production performance of pigs. To reduce fighting behavior in farms, this study aimed to explore the possible effect of odorous substances on piglet fighting behavior after merging into a large pen. Six different sprays were tested: original creamy, cheese flavor, orange flavor, truffle, vanilla and pigpen flavor. In each experiment, two groups were set (one odor-sprayed and no sprayed control), and 12 pigs were used per group. After mixing, the frequency of occurrence of various piglet behaviors in different pens was recorded. During this period, salivary cortisol levels and skin lesion scores were evaluated. As a result, the piglets sprayed with the original creamy, cheese flavor and vanilla substances obtained significantly higher average daily gain and feed intake and showed a significantly lower incidence of fighting behavior, and the skin lesion score and salivary cortisol of piglets were also reduced significantly. All the other odorous substances had no significant effects on the fighting behavior and production performance of piglets., (© 2023 Japanese Society of Animal Science.)

In this article, I consider the implications arising from the commonplace premise that the nature of being admits in ontological kinds. That is, there are actual, fundamentally different genera of being in the world, namely human and non-human beings. That for entities to be considered suitable for valuation under the same ethical rubric, it must be assumed that the general character of their mental states is commensurate. However, if we accent that it is indeterminable what kind of being an entity is without access to the phenomenological character of its experiences, then it may be argued that the ethical standards for non-human animals which follow from our inductive descriptions will always remain a matter of opinion, expressed from a particular point of view delimited within the metaphysical commitments derived from a human ontology of being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heat stress is a limiting factor for livestock productivity in many countries. This study was designed to evaluate the influence of exposure of exotic pigs to high environmental temperatures on physiology, oxidative stress biomarkers and productivity. Multiparous sows (n = 40) in two equal groups (Groups N and H) were investigated. The pen temperature, relative humidity and Temperature- Humidity Index (THI) were measured for 30 days. The skin temperature, respiratory rate and rectal temperature were measured weekly. Haematology, serum biochemistry and oxidative biomarkers were also evaluated. The production records, including farrowing events (NFE), number of piglets at birth (NPB), number of piglets at weaning (NPW) and piglet mortality (NPM) were obtained per sow for the preceding 24 months. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and a student T-test at P<0.05. Pen indoor temperature was significantly higher and relative humidity significantly lower in Group H (30.23+0.99 °C, 48.90+7.94 %) compared to Group N (25.21+0.94 °C, 58.97+6.21 %). The THI was higher in Group H (78.40+1.99). There was a significant increase in skin surface temperature and respiratory rate in Group H (37.70+1.40 °C and 39.70+4.28 bpm) with a slight increase in rectal temperature compared to Group N (33.86+0.95 0C and 35.79+2.89 bpm). There was a slight increase in PCV, blood urea nitrogen and a decrease in the levels of sodium, chloride, and bicarbonate in sows in Group H. There was a significant increase in hydrogen peroxide generation, nitric oxide contents and malondialdehyde levels, with a decrease in superoxide dismutase activity and glutathione content in Group H when compared to Group N. There was a reduction in farrowing events (N = 3.45+0.20; H = 3.00+ 0.19), number of piglets at birth (N = 29.15+1.92; H = 27.95+ 2.44), the number of piglets at weaning (N = 27.65+1.89; H = 25.90+ 2.25), and an increase in piglet mortality (N = 1.5+0.21; H = 2.05+0.42) in sows exposed to higher temperatures. The orientation of the pig housing in the northsouth direction reduced its effectiveness. Exotic sows exposed to heat stress had altered physiology, experienced oxidative stress, were prone to renal and hepatic injury, and had reduced productivity. Adequate thermal comfort should be ensured in pig husbandry in the tropics for optimal health and productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this report, different handling conditions at slaughterhouse were studied to assess changes in salivary biomarkers. For this purpose, finishing pigs were divided into two groups, one in which handling was improved to minimize stress (Group A, n = 24, transported and stabled at the slaughterhouse at low density without mixing with unfamiliar animals throughout the whole process) and another one in which animals had a more stressful handling process (Group B, n = 24, transported and stabled at high density with unfamiliar animals). Saliva samples were taken the day before transport to the slaughterhouse at 8:00 a.m. (B0) and 12:00 a.m. (B4), and the day of slaughter just after unloading animals at the slaughterhouse at approximately 8:00 a.m. (S0) and after 4 h of lairage at approximately 12:00 a.m. (S4). Group B showed significantly higher cortisol, total esterase activity, oxytocin, adenosine deaminase and haptoglobin levels than the Group A at both S0 and S4 sampling times, and higher levels of calprotectin and creatine kinase at S4 sampling time. This report indicates that differences in the way in which the pigs are handled at the slaughterhouse can lead to changes in salivary biomarkers and opens the possibility of the use of biomarker at slaughter to monitor handling conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the late 1950s, Katahdin hair sheep were developed as a composite breed of medium size and moderate prolificacy, with potential to express resistance to gastrointestinal nematodes. With increasing popularity and the recent adoption of genomic prediction in their genetic evaluation, there is a risk of decreasing variation with selection based on genomically enhanced estimated breeding values. While Katahdin pedigrees are readily available for monitoring diversity, they may not capture the entirety of genetic relationships. We aimed to characterise the genomic population structure and diversity present in the breed, and how these impact the size of a reference population necessary to achieve accurate genomic predictions. Genotypes of Katahdin sheep from 81 member flocks in the National Sheep Improvement Program (NSIP) were used. After quality control, there were 9704 animals and 31,984 autosomal single nucleotide polymorphisms analysed. Population structure was minimal as a single ancestral population explained 99.9% of the genetic variation among animals. The current N e was estimated to be 150, and despite differences in trait heritabilities, the effect of N e on the accuracy of genomic predictions suggested the breed should aim for a reference population size of 15,000 individuals. The average degree of inbreeding estimated from runs of homozygosity (ROH) was 16.6% ± 4.7. Four genomic regions of interest, previously associated with production traits, contained ROH shared among > 50% of the breed. Based on four additional methods, average genomic inbreeding coefficients ranged from 0.011 to 0.012. The current population structure and diversity of the breed reflects genetic connectedness across flocks due to the sharing of animals. Shared regions of ROH should be further explored for incorporation of functional effects into genomic predictions to increase selection gains. Negative impacts on genetic diversity due to genomic selection are not of immediate concern for Katahdin sheep engaged in NSIP., (© 2024 The Author(s). Journal of Animal Breeding and Genetics published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Simple Summary: This study explores the impact of pre-slaughter stress on pigs, focusing on non-ambulatory, non-injured (NANI) pigs, and pigs showing no apparent anomalies (non-NANI). Pre-slaughter stress is known to affect animal welfare and meat quality. NANI pigs, often disabled or injured, exhibit higher body temperatures and significant blood count changes, indicating elevated stress levels. The study correlates these physiological markers with meat quality parameters, revealing that NANI pigs experience abnormalities in meat characteristics. The findings emphasize the potential use of blood biomarkers as predictive tools for evaluating pig welfare during handling, leading to improved practices and, consequently, better meat quality. This research aims to contribute to enhanced animal welfare and more efficient pork production practices. The study aimed to investigate the physiological and meat quality differences between Non-Ambulatory, Non-Injured (NANI), and without apparent abnormalities (non-NANI) pigs in a commercial slaughterhouse setting, focusing on the impact of stress and health conditions on the overall well-being and meat quality of the animals. A total of 241 surgically castrated crossbred male pigs from Southern Brazil were analyzed, with 131 non-NANI pigs and 110 NANI pigs. Infrared orbital temperature, rectal temperature, hematological parameters, and meat quality measurements were collected. Statistical analysis included ANOVA tests and principal component analysis (PCA). NANI pigs exhibited significantly higher infrared orbital temperatures and rectal temperature (p < 0.01). Hematological analysis revealed higher levels of hemoglobin, hematocrit, and red blood cells in NANI pigs (p < 0.05). White blood cell count and lactate dehydrogenase were significantly elevated in NANI pigs (p < 0.01), indicating potential infections or inflammatory responses. Meat quality parameters showed that NANI pigs had lower pH values, higher luminosity, and increased drip loss (p < 0.01), reflecting poorer water retention and potential muscle glycogen depletion. The study highlights the physiological and meat quality differences between NANI and non-NANI pigs, emphasizing the impact of stress, health conditions, and handling procedures on the animals. Blood biomarkers proved valuable in assessing physiological stress, immune response, and potential health issues in pigs, correlating with meat quality abnormalities. Utilizing these biomarkers as predictive tools can enhance animal welfare practices and contribute to improving meat quality in the swine industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The aim of this study was to evaluate the circulating serotonin concentration and the pattern of serotonin-related receptors (5-HT1B and 5-HT2A) expressed by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), and the adrenocortical and hematochemical responses of horses exposed to transportation and slaughter stress. We found that the 5-HT1B and 5-HT2A expression levels were significantly increased by transportation and slaughter stress, as well as several stress parameters, while serotonin's concentration was markedly reduced. Based on this evidence, the evaluation of serotoninergic system alterations may be useful to better explain the impact of transportation and slaughter on horse welfare, with a potential application for improving the protocols and guidelines for transported horses. Horse transport is considered a cause of stress in animals and is known to affect the 5-HT concentrations in both the brain and other tissues. The aim of this research was to investigate the effect of horse transportation and slaughter stress on plasma serotonin's concentration and the expression levels of the related 5-HT1B and 5-HT2A receptors in PBMCs. Furthermore, the IL-12 levels and a variety of blood parameters, including triglycerides, total cholesterol, glucose, aspartate aminotransferase, creatine phosphokinase, lactate dehydrogenase, were also considered. This research was carried out on 32 horses submitted to short road transport of 40 km to slaughter. Blood samples were collected in baseline conditions (T0) and 24 h later, after they were slaughtered (T1). The results showed a significantly increased expression of 5-HT1B and 5-HT2A receptors and a significantly decreased expression of IL-12 in PBMCs at T1 vs. T0. Furthermore, a significant increase in cortisol and glucose concentrations, and LDH activity was observed at T1. In contrast, a significantly lower circulating 5-HT concentration was observed at T1 vs. T0. These results indicate that the stress induced by transport and slaughter stimuli led to the serotoninergic system's activation, suggesting that the expression of serotonin receptors could be used as a pivotal marker of stress, with potential applications for the improvement of elective protocols to observe the guidelines relating to transported horses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Early life interactions with the sow or humans can have lifelong consequences on welfare and performance in pigs. It was hypothesised that piglets that received increased maternal contact and positive human contact would display improved responses to stressful events and improved performance. Methods: Ninety-eight litters were allocated to a 2 x 2 factorial design for maternal contact (MC+)/restricted maternal contact (MC-); and positive human contact (HC+)/no additional human contact (HC-). Modified farrowing crates were used to restrict maternal contact (MC-) and litters in the HC+ treatment received five minutes of daily positive human interaction (stroking). Behavioural and physiological responses were assessed during processing at three days of age and during a behaviour test in which piglets were introduced to an empty arena, novel object, human hand and human standing in the arena at 18 days of age. Observations of behaviour in the home pen and growth and survival of piglets to weaning were also assessed. Results: At processing, MC- piglets had more squeals (P = 0.015), tended to have more grunts (P = 0.063) and struggle attempts (P = 0.079), and had increased plasma cortisol concentrations (P = 0.009) after processing than MC+ piglets. During the behaviour test, HC+ piglets were more active (P = 0.014) and had more vocalisations (P < 0.05) in the empty arena than HC piglets. Furthermore, HC+ piglets were more likely to approach a human standing in the arena (P = 0.006) than HC- piglets. MC- piglets were less active (P = 0.008) and were less likely to approach the novel object (P = 0.049) than MC+ piglets. MC+ piglets tended to have higher weaning weights (P = 0.055) and more MC+ piglets were successfully weaned (P = 0.022) than MC- piglets. There was no significant effect of HC on piglet performance. Discussion: While positive handling did not affect behavioural and physiological stress response to processing, HC+ reduced fear of novelty and humans. These findings highlight the importance of early life experiences has on stress resilience early in life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In the current market, most retailers in EU countries pay pig breeders primarily for the lean meat percentage of the carcass, which does not agree entirely with the quality of pork meat (such as colour). It is well known that pigs are more susceptible than other livestock species to high environmental temperatures. High temperatures in finishing pigs are associated with reduced performance parameters. This study evaluated the seasonal effect (summer vs. autumn) on performance (live weight, average daily gain) and slaughter traits of finishing pigs (warm and cold carcass weights, trunk length, fat thickness), as well as meat quality parameters of the pork (pH at 45 min and 24 h postmortem, colour, drip loss, thawing loss, cooking loss, shear force, and meat composition). Seasonal differences in performance between summer and autumn were more pronounced when measuring the length of the phase of the average daily weight gain during the trial. There was also a significant difference in trunk length and fat thickness parameters (withers, loin, and mean back fat thickness), L* value, total drip loss, and cooking loss between the two groups. In addition, the seasonal differences affected the meat composition parameters. Most retailers in EU countries pay pig breeders for their animals' lean meat percentage, which does not align fully with measures of pork quality (such as colour). In this study, we investigated the effects of season (summer vs. autumn) on finishing pigs' performance, carcass characteristics, and meat quality parameters in 24 slaughter pigs. Growing performance traits (live weights, average daily weight gain), slaughter values (warm and cold carcass weights, trunk length, fat thickness) and meat quality parameters (pH at 45 min and 24 h postmortem, colour, drip loss, thawing loss, cooking loss, shear force, and meat composition) were recorded. Seasonal differences were more pronounced for the initial age, the number of days in the growing-finishing phase, and the average daily gain. There was also a significant difference in the trunk length between groups, the fat thickness on withers and loin, and also in mean fat thickness. A significant difference was found in the case of pH, total drip loss, and meat colour (L*). The intramuscular fat and collagen content of meat was significantly higher in summer; in contrast, the protein content of meat samples was considerably lower in summer. In conclusion, seasonal effects on finishers' performance, lean meat values, and several meat quality parameters highlight the importance of more profound seasonal settings of climate control to fulfil the progressively changing quantitative and qualitative requests of pork sector participants from farm to fork. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: During transportation, slaughter pigs are subjected to a number of different stressors that could compromise their welfare, health and performance, as well as industry's profitability. Thus, it is of paramount importance to verify the slaughter pigs' condition throughout the pork supply chain to ensure their well-being and health and to obtain high-quality carcasses and meat. To date, there is no information on the response of slaughter pigs with different health status and RYR-1 genotype to transport procedures. Based on this, the aim of this study was to assess the influence of transport conditions on welfare of slaughter pigs with different health status and RYR-1 genotype. The most compromised welfare was recorded in subclinically diseased stress-carrier pigs exposed to short transportation (<30 min) and high loading density (~235 kg/m2), while under the same conditions the welfare of healthy stress-resistant pigs was not compromised. Accordingly, it can be concluded that stress-carrier pigs with subclinical pathological lesions should not be considered fit for transportation, indicating that the health status and genotype are the key factors for optimising pig welfare. This study assessed the influence of transport conditions on welfare indicators of slaughter pigs with different health status and RYR-1 genotype. The group of pigs, predominantly consisting of Nn (56.67%) and subclinically diseased (60.00%) individuals, that were exposed to short transportation (<30 min) at high loading density (~235 kg/m2) had the highest slipping (p < 0.0001), falling (p = 0.0009), turning back (p < 0.0001), reluctance to move (p < 0.0001), panting (p < 0.0001) and shivering (p < 0.0001) frequencies at unloading. Subclinically diseased Nn pigs subjected to short transportation (<30 min) and high loading density (~235 kg/m2) had the highest lactate (p < 0.0001 and p < 0.0001), glucose (p = 0.0450 and p = 0.0002), CK (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.0010), LDH (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.0484), AST (p = 0.0208 and p = 0.0170), ALT (p = 0.0500 and p = 0.00081), ceruloplasmin (p = 0.0334 and p < 0.0001) and MDA (p = 0.0048 and p < 0.0001) concentrations, but the lowest sodium (p < 0.0001 and p < 0.0001), chloride (p = 0.0001 and p = 0.0432), albumin (p < 0.0090 and p < 0.0001), PON-1 (p = 0.0122 and p = 0.0500) and GSH (p = 0.0042 and p = 0.0340) levels, respectively. In the group consisting of of stress-resistant (100%) and predominantly healthy (60.00%) pigs subjected to short transportation (<30 min) at high loading density (~235 kg/m2), none of the individuals showed irregular behavioural reactions during unloading. Healthy NN pigs that underwent short transportation (<30 min) at high loading density (~235 kg/m2) had the lowest lactate (p < 0.0001 and p < 0.0001), glucose (p = 0.0450 and p = 0.0002), CK (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.0010), LDH (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.0484) and ceruloplasmin (p = 0.0334 and p < 0.0001) levels, but the highest sodium (p < 0.0001 and p < 0.0001) and chloride (p = 0.0001 and p = 0.0432) concentrations, respectively. In conclusion, the most compromised welfare was recorded in subclinically diseased Nn pigs exposed to short transportation (<30 min) and high loading density (~235 kg/m2), while under the same conditions, the welfare of healthy NN pigs was not compromised. Therefore, stress-carrier pigs with subclinical pathological lesions should not be considered fit for transportation, indicating that the health status and genotype are the key factors for optimising pig welfare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the effect of light intensity on the growth performance, hematological profile, and biochemical composition of muscle tissue of paddlefish juveniles, reared in a recirculating aquaculture system (RAS). Two experimental variants were created: V1- where the rearing units have green color, and the average of the light intensity was 105 lx (mean fish weight was 21.65 ± 0.6 g), and V2- where the rearing units have white color, and the average of the light intensity was 30 lx (mean fish weight was 22.15 ± 0.8 g). Fish were fed at an intensity of 2.5% BW for 48 days. Growth of juvenile paddlefish under 30 lx was significantly better than that of paddlefish under 105 lx (p < 0.05), as indicated by final weight (1158.20 ± 21.90 g), specific growth rate (2.18% ± 0.07%/day) and feed conversion coefficient (0.80 ± 0.28 g/g). In conclusion, the paddlefish juveniles can adapt to various light intensities and grow favorably under low light conditions in a recirculating aquaculture system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: When Turkeys’ legscome in contact with their dropping during the growing stage results in footpad dermatitis condition which affects the poult’s welfare and productivity. Aim: Our experiment aimed to detect the impact of various bedding substrates on the wellbeing, and performance of growing Turkey under Egyptian conditions. Methods: 180-day-old Turkey poults were allocated into three treatments. In treatment I, the poults [60 each with three replicates (n = 20 birds)] were kept on wood shavings (WS); in the second treatment, the poults were housed on chopped wheat straw (CWS). However, in the third treatment, they kept on a plastic slatted floor (PSF). Results: The greater feed intake and body weight were recorded in poults reared in PSF compared with those kept in other treatments (WS and CWS). Feed conversion ratio did not show any significant difference. The mortality percentage was higher in the PSF group than in the WS one. The frequency of feeding and drinking behavior was higher in poults reared on WS treatment compared with other treatments CWS and PSF. On the other hand, resting behavior showed the highest frequency in poults kept in PSF. Contrary, the lowest frequency of walking behavior was recorded in poults reared in PSF treatment. In addition, the poults kept in WS had a longer tonic immobility reaction period followed by those kept in PSF and CWS. Concerning foot-pad dermatitis, the highest score of 0 was observed in the CWS group, while the highest score of 1 was recorded among poults kept in the WS group. On the other side, the highest score 2, 3, and 4 was observed in the poults reared in the PSF group. Heterophil/Lymphocyte ratio of Turkey poults was higher in PSF. While T3 and T4 concentrations in blood were not affected by using different bedding materials. Conclusion: It is concluded that the slatted floor was good for Turkey producers from the point of performance but, it is the worst from the point of welfare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low space availability, high temperatures and a barren environment may contribute to the occurrence of abnormal behaviours and lesions in intensive pig farming. The present study evaluated the housing conditions (HCs), that influence behavioural measures (BMs), and lesion and health measures (LHMs) in growing pigs reared in an Italian farming system. Data collection was carried out on two groups of pigs in each farm (Farm A and Farm B), tail docked (DT) and tail undocked (UT). The HCs measured were dry and wet bulb temperature, light, humidity, air quality, average body weight, pen level of cleanliness, space, and feeder front allowance. Light intensity was negatively associated with positive behaviour (coefficient: −0.01; p < 0.001), while the length of the feeder front was positively associated with the proportion of pigs exploring the pen (coefficient: 65.18; p = 0.04). Tail lesion score index (LSI) increased with an increased frequency of negative behaviour (coefficient: 8.05; p < 0.01), increased light intensity (coefficient: 0.29; p < 0.001) and increased proportion of CO2 (coefficient: 498.31; p < 0.001), while it decreased with the average body weight of the pen (coefficient: −4.04; p < 0.001) and the space allowance (coefficient: −198.93; p < 0.001). Finally, UT pigs showed a greater (p < 0.001) tail LSI than DT pigs (126.8 ± 5.71 and 78.5 ± 9.11, respectively for UT and DT pigs). The present study improved the understanding of the effects of HCs, including tail docking, on welfare parameters of growing pigs. Housing and management conditions might play a prominent role on pig health and welfare parameters during growing period. Social and exploring attitude behaviours affects both ears and tail lesions. Regardless of tail docking, tail injuries were positively associated with negative behaviour, light intensity, and CO2, while they were negatively associated with the average body weight of the pen and the space allowance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article studied the productivity indicators, the effectiveness of the use of feed and medical and preventive means, as well as the economic indicators for the rearing of piglets using dry feeding (from self-breeders), wet feeding (from automatic feeders), liquid feeding (prepared in containers for a building for rearing) and portioned liquid feeding (prepared at each individual automatic feeder). Better indicators of piglet productivity were found with liquid feeding and portioned feeding of piglets by hydration during feeding in the automatic feeder. In liquid feeding, piglets had 4.34-20.62% better average daily and absolute growth, 3.42-15.24% higher weight at the end of the period, but were 0.03-0.53% worse in terms of preservation than analogues using dry and wet feed. When using a liquid feeding system with feed mixture in containers designed for one room, the productivity indicators proved to be lower compared to feeding with portion feeding systems, but they outperformed the animals with dry feeding by 15,6% in terms of average daily and absolute gains and by 11.43% in terms of weight at the end of rearing, and they outperformed analogues consuming moistened feed in the feeder by 10.77% in terms of average daily and absolute gains and by 7.81% in terms of weight of piglets at the end of rearing. Piglets consuming wet feed during rearing were inferior to their liquid-fed counterparts in terms of key productivity indicators, but showed better productivity levels than their dry-fed peers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a result of the domestication process and systematic breeding, livestock species have been shaped as donors of animal goods for humans. The animals' role so defined, which has remained unchanged for millennia, now faces criticism from intellectuals (posthumanism), pro-animal activists, and increasingly often, postmodern societies. The core aspect of this growing conflict can be described at the level relationship between the personality/individuality of farm animals, animals as persons/nonpersons, and animals as moral subjects/agents. This review aims to discuss these relationships in the context of the current state of ethical reflection and knowledge, and in relation to the future of livestock production. It presents problems of definition and research methodology in the field of animal personality, with particular reference to farm animals, characterises the dilemmas of the moral status of animals in the personality/individuality of farm animals – animals as persons/nonpersons – animals as moral subjects/agents, and discusses the relationship between farm animal personality and animal individuality; moreover, it undertakes to analyse the possibilities of individualised treatment of farm animals at the level of future livestock production. It concludes, among other things, that the concept of "animal personality" in relation to farm animals remains undefined in both research and social spaces. While livestock animals remain moral subjects, some ethical concepts attribute to them a wider range of rights intended for personal moral agents. At the same time, it was noted that an individualised approach to animals appears to be one of the most important aspects in the sourcing food of animal origin in the future, in line with a systematically increasing level of animal welfare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]