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In previous studies, livestock have been effectively trained to virtual fencing systems by learning an association between an audio cue and an electrical stimulus (collectively, ‘the virtual fence’), however, there was a large variation shown in ability to learn. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of temperament on learning this association, and to determine the importance of the audio warning cue in learning and behavioural responses to the virtual fence. Forty-six ewes underwent temperament testing, and 40 were assigned to one of two groups (n = 20/group), Group 1 (AS) with both an audio cue warning (Audio cue 2 s) and electrical stimulus (

This study examined the behavioural expression of cattle immediately prior to slaughter through the process of Qualitative Behavioural Assessment (QBA), and compared these results to measurements of physiology and temperament. Twenty-eight Angus steers were filmed while in a funnel chute as they were being moved towards an abattoir killing box. Footage of cattle was shown in random order to 15 observers. Observers assessed the cattle using a qualitative approach based on Free Choice Profiling (FCP) methodology, which gives observers complete freedom to choose their own descriptive terms. Data were analysed with Generalised Procrustes Analysis (GPA). There was significant consensus (P 5.7 (classified as a 'dark cutter') had a low value for GPA dimension 2 (scored as relatively more 'annoyed'/'frightened'). The findings from this study suggest that QBA could contribute to assessing pre-slaughter animal handling, highlighting potential issues to be followed up with additional measures. The significant correlations between GPA dimension 1 with slaughter order and plasma lactate warrant further investigation, comparing behavioural expression with aspects of meat quality.

We studied the milk production, milk composition and behaviour in the dairy of ewes classified as calm through temperament testing. We hypothesised that calm sheep would not be stressed by milking, and would therefore have complete milk ejections and increased milk yields compared to nervous sheep. The temperaments of 95 experienced dairy ewes were measured in a social challenge 3 weeks before parturition, and their behaviour was observed and milk was sampled during machine milking from approximately 2 to 10 weeks after lambing. Based on their temperament scores, two distinct groups of calm ewes (n = 16) and nervous ewes (n = 16) were generated. There was no difference between calm and nervous ewes in their frequency of kicks and unloading scores. During the first week of recording, calm ewes were less reluctant to enter the milking parlour and, from approximately week 3 onwards, it took less time to attach the milking cups to calm ewes. There was an interaction between time and temperament on milk production, which provides evidence that the evolution of milk yield differs between temperaments, with calm ewes producing an average of 462 ± 36 g/day while nervous ewes averaged 394 ± 33 g/day. However, there was no effect of temperament or time on the concentration of fat or protein in the milk. Our results suggest that selection for temperament may play a role in moderating milk production by ewes and also contribute to their behaviour on the platform.

This session will review procedures for temperament testing dogs, cats and other animals involved in the Delta Society Pet Partners Program. Pet Partners registers and insures people and their pets that visit people in nursing homes, schools, hospitals and residential treatment facilities. Animals involved in visiting programs must cope with loud and sudden noises, sudden hand and body movements, and unfamiliar touch. This session will examine acceptable and unacceptable responses to various stimuli and provide information regarding species differences. Veterinarians provide important information to the evaluation process by scoring the animal on its reaction to these stimuli. In addition, veterinarians will score the animal for its reaction to strangers and to offered food. Final approval of animals is provided by the Delta Society.