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Costa ICTA, Ramírez-López CJ, de Sousa WV, da Silva YM, Villadiego FAC, Nogueira FCS, Guimarães SEF, Guimarães JD, Baracat-Pereira MC. Proteomic profile of seminal plasma from Pêga donkeys (Equus asinus) with high sperm motility and vigor: Implications for assisted reproduction. COMPARATIVE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY. PART D, GENOMICS & PROTEOMICS 2024; 52:101264. [PMID: 38991313 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbd.2024.101264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 06/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Donkeys of the Pêga breed (Equus asinus) have been used for two centuries to produce breeding stock and create hybrids for labor and transport in southeast Brazil, and for exporting meat and milk to other countries. Furthermore, they are used in competitions, as they are docile and easy to handle. However, assisted reproduction success rates for frozen donkey semen are remarkably low, with no standardized method for cryopreserving sperm after removal of seminal plasma. This work aims to reveal the biological involvement of seminal plasma proteins from Pêga donkeys in aiding the development of assisted reproduction. This study was carried out with 14 ejaculates collected every eight days, throughout the breeding season, from three healthy fertile Pêga donkeys, with an average age of four years. After confirming the high freezability of fresh semen by evaluating quality parameters, the seminal plasma was separated by centrifugation and an aliquot from each collection was microfiltered and frozen. A label-free technique followed by LC-MS/MS analysis applied to pools of seminal plasma samples from each animal revealed 522 proteins in the proteomic profile, of which 49.8 % (260 proteins) are related to cellular energy transformation, and many proteins involved in reproduction (76), spermatogenesis (38), fertilization (29), among other biological process. By comparison with literature, Pêga donkeys share many proteins with donkeys of Dezhou breed that present great potential as fertility biomarkers. Our results showed proteins positively related to fertilization for different breeds of donkeys around the world, helping to enhance the assisted reproduction of Pêga donkeys.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Camilo José Ramírez-López
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, Brazil; Department of Veterinary, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, Brazil.
| | - Wassali Valadares de Sousa
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, Brazil; Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Yara Martins da Silva
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | | | - Fábio César Sousa Nogueira
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
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Merridale-Punter MS, Elias B, Wodajo AL, El-Hage CM, Zewdu H, Tesfaye R, Hailegebreal G, Sori T, Wiethoelter AK, Hitchens PL. Putting the cart before the horse: mixed-methods participatory investigation of working equid harnessing practices in three selected towns of the Oromia national regional state in Ethiopia. BMC Vet Res 2024; 20:113. [PMID: 38519893 PMCID: PMC10958837 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-024-03967-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Millions of working equids provide socio-economic support for many low-income communities worldwide. With the prevalence of harness-related wounds reported as higher than 60%, this study aims to describe the equipment used by working equids in three locations of the Ethiopian national regional state of Oromia (Fiche, Bishoftu and Shashamene), and the attitudes and practices of equid owners, users and harness makers regarding work equipment. This mixed-methods study consists of cross-sectional surveying of working equids used for taxi or transport of goods or water, as well as cart-driver questionnaires and focus groups (FG) with working equid stakeholders. Activities conducted with FG included participatory ranking of equipment attributes and equipment drawing exercises. Indicators of equipment design and assembly, as well as cart-driver attitudes and practices were described quantitatively. Associations between equipment characteristics and species, work-type and cart-driver indicators were investigated through univariable logistic regression models, whereas focus group discussions were transcribed and analysed thematically. RESULTS In total, 368 working equid surveys and cart-driver questionnaires were completed and 87 participants took part in nine FG. Equipment composition and characteristics differed considerably from ideal animal draught and harnessing principles described in the literature, with none of the observed harnesses adhering to all principles and thus not considered fully adequate. Various harness compositions were used, with only saddles and breast collars present in all. Donkey equipment had fewer components than that of horses, such as swingle trees (OR 0.02; 95% CI 0.01-0.06; p < 0.001) or girths (OR 0.09; 95%CI 0.02-0.4; p = 0.002). Horse equipment was more likely to have functional elements such as breeching (OR 7.8; 95% CI 2.9-20.9; p < 0.001). Of all equipment attributes, FG participants ranked cost, design and impact on animal wellbeing as having the highest importance. Thematic analysis identified motivations and priorities regarding equipment; awareness and knowledge of design and function; barriers to using ideal equipment; and consequences of equipment design and practices as key themes. CONCLUSIONS Various weaknesses of design, assembly and use of equid work equipment were identified. Promoting behavioural change through awareness and training could lead to a sustainable improvement of work equipment quality, access, and prevention of equipment-related problems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Belay Elias
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Addis Ababa University, P.O. Box 34, Bishoftu, Ethiopia
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hawassa University, P.O. Box 05, Hawassa, Ethiopia
| | - Abel L Wodajo
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Addis Ababa University, P.O. Box 34, Bishoftu, Ethiopia
| | - Charles M El-Hage
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Hanna Zewdu
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Addis Ababa University, P.O. Box 34, Bishoftu, Ethiopia
| | - Reta Tesfaye
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Addis Ababa University, P.O. Box 34, Bishoftu, Ethiopia
| | | | - Teshale Sori
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Addis Ababa University, P.O. Box 34, Bishoftu, Ethiopia
| | - Anke K Wiethoelter
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Peta L Hitchens
- Equine Centre, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, 250 Princes Hwy, Werribee, VIC, 3030, Australia
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Bukhari SSUH, Parkes RSV. Assessing the impact of draught load pulling on welfare in equids. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1214015. [PMID: 37662986 PMCID: PMC10469728 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1214015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
About 112 million working equids are the source of income for 600 million people globally. Many equids are used for pulling loads (up to 15,000 kg per day) to transport goods. Most of them are associated with brick kilns, mining, and agriculture industries in developing countries. They may suffer from welfare issues such as overloading, being beaten, and being forced to work for long periods. These issues may occur due to a poor understanding of load-pulling equids. Understanding their capabilities and the elements that influence them is critical for efficient performance and welfare. The measurement of stride characteristics and gait kinematics can reveal loading adaptations and help identify loading limitations. It is known that both loading and fatigue change the locomotor patterns of load-pulling horses. Heart rate is a stress quantifying metric and an important representative of the speed of work and draught force. Heart rate variability is a regularly used statistic to quantify a physiological response to stresses, but it has never been used for load-pulling equids. Changes in blood lactate, nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide contents are reliable biochemical indicators of the effects of load pulling. Changes in plasma cortisol levels reflect the intensity of exercise and stress levels in horses while pulling a load. However, eye blink rate is a cheap, simple, and immediate indicator of acute equine stress, and we suggest it may be used to aid in load-pulling equine welfare assessment. However, further research is needed for a standardized and evidence-based draught load pulling capacity of working horses, mules, and donkeys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed S. U. H. Bukhari
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Centre for Animal Health and Welfare, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Rebecca S. V. Parkes
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Centre for Animal Health and Welfare, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Ravichandran T, Perumal RK, Vijayalakshmy K, Raw Z, Cooke F, Baltenweck I, Rahman H. Means of Livelihood, Clean Environment to Women Empowerment: The Multi-Faceted Role of Donkeys. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:1927. [PMID: 37370437 DOI: 10.3390/ani13121927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the substantial contribution donkeys make to the livelihood of the world's poorest populations, the existence of donkeys has received little notice worldwide. This article reviews the value of donkeys in a variety of sectors, including agriculture, construction industry, and mining, as well as their role in empowering women and achieving sustainable development goals. However, donkeys and mules are not given enough credit or attention in terms of developing strategies regarding their role in reducing poverty. There is a dearth of information and statistics on their impact across industries, the factors contributing to the donkey population dropping, the socioeconomic status of the dependent communities, and related animal and human welfare issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanammal Ravichandran
- International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), New Delhi 100012, India
- Kumaraguru College of Liberal Arts and Science, Coimbatore 641049, India
| | | | | | - Zoe Raw
- Research, Research and Operational Support, The Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth EX10 0NU, UK
| | - Fiona Cooke
- Research & Ecology, Research and Operational Support, The Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth EX10 0NU, UK
| | - Isabelle Baltenweck
- Policies, Institutions and Livelihoods, International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), Nairobi P.O. Box 40241-00100, Kenya
| | - Habibar Rahman
- Regional Representative for South Asia, International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), New Delhi 100012, India
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Seganfreddo S, Fornasiero D, De Santis M, Mutinelli F, Normando S, Contalbrigo L. A Pilot Study on Behavioural and Physiological Indicators of Emotions in Donkeys. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13091466. [PMID: 37174503 PMCID: PMC10177292 DOI: 10.3390/ani13091466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Recognizing animal emotions is critical to their welfare and can lead to a better relationship with humans and the environment, especially in a widespread species like the donkey, which is often prone to welfare issues. This study aims to assess the emotional response of donkeys through an operant conditioning task with two presumed different emotional contents. Specifically, a within-subject design including positive and negative conditions was conducted, collecting behavioural and physiological (heart rate variability and HRV) parameters. Facial expressions, postures, and movements were analysed by principal component analysis and behavioural diversity indexes (frequencies, activity budgets, richness, Shannon and Gini-Simpson). During the positive condition, both ears were held high and sideways (left: r = -0.793, p < 0.0001; right: r = -0.585, p = 0.011), while the ears were frontally erected (left: r = 0.924, p < 0.0001; right: r = 0.946, p < 0.0001) during the negative one. The latter was also associated with an increased tendency to walk (r = 0.709, p = 0.001), walk away (r = 0.578, p = 0.012), more frequent changes in the body position (VBody position = 0, p = 0.022), and greater behavioural complexity (VGini-Simpson Index = 4, p = 0.027). As for HRV analysis, the root mean square of successive beat-to-beat differences (rMSSD) was significantly lower after the negative condition. These non-invasive parameters could be considered as possible indicators of donkeys' emotional state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samanta Seganfreddo
- National Reference Centre for Animal Assisted Interventions, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell'Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Italy
| | - Diletta Fornasiero
- Epidemiology and Risk Analysis in Public Health, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell'Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Italy
| | - Marta De Santis
- National Reference Centre for Animal Assisted Interventions, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell'Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Italy
| | - Franco Mutinelli
- National Reference Centre for Animal Assisted Interventions, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell'Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Italy
| | - Simona Normando
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, Università degli Studi di Padova, Viale dell'Università 14, 35020 Legnaro, Italy
| | - Laura Contalbrigo
- National Reference Centre for Animal Assisted Interventions, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell'Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Italy
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Donkey Heart Rate and Heart Rate Variability: A Scoping Review. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13030408. [PMID: 36766295 PMCID: PMC9913831 DOI: 10.3390/ani13030408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV) are commonly used physiological measures in animals. While several studies exist on horse HRV, less information is available for donkeys. This scoping review aims to understand the extent and type of published evidence on donkey HR and HRV, their clinical and research applications, the devices used, and the analysis performed. Only quantitative primary studies published in English were considered. Four different databases were queried through the Web of Science platform, with additional evidence identified by citation chasing. After a two-stage screening phase, data were extracted considering study and population characteristics, information on HR/HRV analysis, and applications. The majority of the 87 included articles (about 80%) concerned a sample size of up to 20 individuals and were published since 2011 (about 65%). Forty-one articles employed an electronic device for signal acquisition (mainly electrocardiographs and heart rate monitors), yet only two articles reported HRV parameters. The literature on donkey HRV is lacking, and this gap can be filled by gaining knowledge on donkey characteristics and finding useful tools for welfare assessment. Comparison with what is known about the horse allows a discussion of the technical and interpretative difficulties that can be encountered with donkeys.
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Merridale-Punter MS, Wiethoelter AK, El-Hage CM, Hitchens PL. Prevalence and Factors Associated with Working Equid Lameness in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12223100. [PMID: 36428328 PMCID: PMC9686919 DOI: 10.3390/ani12223100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Lameness is an important concern in working equids of low- and middle-income communities (LMICs) with significant One Welfare implications. This study aims to determine the prevalence and influencing factors of lameness in working equids of LMICs. A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed to investigate pooled outcome prevalence using a random intercept regression model. Subgroup and sensitivity analysis were performed through meta-regression. A meta-analysis of study factors for lameness prevalence was performed. Sixty-four studies were included in the review. The pooled prevalence of lameness was 29.9% (n = 42, 95% CI 17-47%), while the pooled prevalence of gait abnormality was 62.9% (n = 12; 95% CI 31-87%). When considering both outcomes together, the pooled prevalence was 38.4% (n = 46; 95% CI 23-57%) with a significant (p = 0.02) difference between lameness (29.5%; 95% CI 16-48%) and gait abnormality (78.8%; 95% CI 40-95%). Species, country income level, gait assessed, and risk of bias did not significantly affect the pooled prevalence. Lower body condition scores, unresponsive attitudes, and old age were the most frequently reported factors positively associated with lameness-related outcomes. Working 7 days per week was positively associated with lameness. The standardization of outcome terminology, grading systems, and study factor categorization is recommended to enable more accurate interpretation and comparison between studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathilde S. Merridale-Punter
- Equine Lameness and Imaging Centre, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, 250 Princes Hwy, Werribee, VIC 3030, Australia
| | - Anke K. Wiethoelter
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Charles M. El-Hage
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Peta L. Hitchens
- Equine Lameness and Imaging Centre, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, 250 Princes Hwy, Werribee, VIC 3030, Australia
- Correspondence:
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Adam SY, Ahmed AA, Musa HH, Feail JS, Musa TH. A Comparison Between Working and Nonworking Donkeys Welfare Issues in Nyala City, South Darfur, Sudan. J Equine Vet Sci 2022; 118:104110. [PMID: 36031030 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2022.104110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
In impoverished nations, donkeys help people make a living. The welfare of donkeys in Sudan is neglected compared with developed countries. However, there is no information available about donkey welfare in Nyala. This study aimed to assess the welfare of donkeys in Nyala. Donkeys were divided into two groups (n=50), working and nonworking. The donkeys' physical, emotional, and clinial parameters and an owner's interview were assessed. There were significant differences in body condition scores: 37% and 47% of working and nonworking donkeys, respectively, had ideal body condition scores, while 13% of working donkeys were emaciated. Of the working and nonworking 33% and 19% had hoof problems, respectively. Fifteen percent of working donkeys had ocular discharge, and 25% had wounds. In working donkeys, 7% and 5% depressive and aggressive behavioral responses, respectively, were observed. Furthermore, there were significant differences in tools used for hitting donkeys, with 33% and 17% of owners using a stick and whip, respectively, for hitting working donkeys. 82% of owners feed their donkeys one to three times daily (50% working and 32% nonworking donkeys), and free access feeding was only observed in 18% of nonworking donkeys. There were no significant differences (P >0.06) in emotional parameters. We conclude that working donkeys suffer from multiple welfare problems more than nonworking donkeys in Nyala. More awareness, veterinary services, and research are needed to improve donkey care in Nyala.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saber Y Adam
- Department of One Health, Medical and Cancer Research Institute; Animal Welfare Center, Nyala, Sudan
| | - Abdelkareem A Ahmed
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Gaborone, Botswana; Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Nyala, Nyala, Sudan; Biomedical Research Institute, Darfur University College, Nyala, Sudan.
| | - Hassan H Musa
- Biomedical Research Institute, Darfur University College, Nyala, Sudan
| | - Jafaar S Feail
- Biomedical Research Institute, Darfur University College, Nyala, Sudan
| | - Taha H Musa
- Biomedical Research Institute, Darfur University College, Nyala, Sudan
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De Santis M, Seganfreddo S, Galardi M, Mutinelli F, Normando S, Contalbrigo L. Donkey behaviour and cognition: A literature review. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2021.105485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Orth EK, Navas González FJ, Iglesias Pastrana C, Berger JM, le Jeune SS, Davis EW, McLean AK. Development of a Donkey Grimace Scale to Recognize Pain in Donkeys ( Equus asinus) Post Castration. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10081411. [PMID: 32823676 PMCID: PMC7459673 DOI: 10.3390/ani10081411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The objectives of this study were to establish a donkey ethogram, followed by a donkey grimace scale to be applied to donkeys pre- and post-castration and to test if there was a notable difference in scores based on observer knowledge, gender, and experience, which could reveal possible discomfort/pain. Nine healthy male adult donkeys were surgically castrated. Fifty-four photos were selected from frontal, lateral, and body views taken pre- and post-castration. Observers ranging from minimal to extensive knowledge and levels of experience based on education and hours/month spent with donkeys scored six photos/donkey on a scale of 0-2 (0 = not present, 1 = moderately present, 2 = obviously present). Scores were based on body language and facial parameters: Ears down, ears back, eye white showing, glazed look, orbital tightening, eyes round shape, nostril tension, eyes narrow shape, muzzle tension, and abnormal stance and overall perception of the animal being in pain. Level of experience and knowledge, as well as gender significantly (p < 0.001), affected observers' ability to accurately score images. The study suggests that the most significant indicators of pain in donkeys are overall appearance and abnormal body stance provided their sensitivity, specificity and accuracy values of 63.18%, 62.07%, and 62.60%, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma K. Orth
- Department of Animal Biology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95617, USA;
| | - Francisco J. Navas González
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain;
- The Worldwide Donkey Breeds Project, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain
- Correspondence: (F.J.N.G.); (A.K.M.)
| | - Carlos Iglesias Pastrana
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain;
- The Worldwide Donkey Breeds Project, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain
| | - Jeannine M. Berger
- San Francisco SPCA, Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA;
| | - Sarah S. le Jeune
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95617, USA;
| | - Eric W. Davis
- International Animal Welfare Training Institute, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95617, USA;
| | - Amy K. McLean
- The Worldwide Donkey Breeds Project, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain
- Department of Animal Science, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95617, USA
- Correspondence: (F.J.N.G.); (A.K.M.)
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Rayner E, Airikkala-Otter I, Susheelan A, Gibson A, Itaba R, Mayani T, Mellanby RJ, Gamble L. Prevalence of skin wounds in working donkeys in Bukombe, Tanzania. Vet Rec 2019; 186:284. [PMID: 31554710 DOI: 10.1136/vr.105399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Revised: 07/17/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preventable wounds are a common welfare issue in working donkeys in many countries. In the Bukombe District of Tanzania, there are estimated to be 3000 working donkeys, used primarily to transport loads for direct income generation. For historical reasons, oxen-yoke carts are used; their design is inappropriate for donkeys and results in serious neck wounds. The project aim was to assess the prevalence and nature of wounds in working donkeys. METHODS In November 2018, 148 donkeys owned by 48 owners were examined, and data were collected. RESULTS The study revealed that one or more wounds were present in 56.1% of the population and yoke-related, dorsal neck wounds comprised 79.5% of these. These wounds ranged in surface area from 1 cm2 to 300 cm2. Clinically, 96.6% of all wound types were superficial and the majority of these (51.1%) were granulating. CONCLUSION These data will enable the future evaluation of targeted interventions aimed at reducing the prevalence of these specific wounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Rayner
- Worldwide Veterinary Service (WVS), 4 Castle Street, Cranborne, BH21 5PZ, Dorset, UK
| | - Ilona Airikkala-Otter
- Worldwide Veterinary Service, International Training Centre, Gramya Bhavan, RDO Trust Building, Aruvankadu, The Nilgiris 643202, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Aswin Susheelan
- Worldwide Veterinary Service, International Training Centre, Gramya Bhavan, RDO Trust Building, Aruvankadu, The Nilgiris 643202, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Andrew Gibson
- Worldwide Veterinary Service (WVS), 4 Castle Street, Cranborne, BH21 5PZ, Dorset, UK
| | - Richard Itaba
- Tanzania Humane Charity, P.O. Box 80197, ILALA, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Thomas Mayani
- Tanzania Humane Charity, P.O. Box 80197, ILALA, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Richard J Mellanby
- Division of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and the Roslin Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Edinburgh, EH25 9RG, UK
| | - Luke Gamble
- Worldwide Veterinary Service (WVS), 4 Castle Street, Cranborne, BH21 5PZ, Dorset, UK
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Navas González FJ, Jordana Vidal J, Pizarro Inostroza G, Arando Arbulu A, Delgado Bermejo JV. Can Donkey Behavior and Cognition Be Used to Trace Back, Explain, or Forecast Moon Cycle and Weather Events? Animals (Basel) 2018; 8:ani8110215. [PMID: 30463193 PMCID: PMC6262452 DOI: 10.3390/ani8110215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2018] [Revised: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Donkeys have been traditionally attributed the ability to inform humans about the environment. Carefully observing the behavior and cognitive reactions of donkeys in their habitat may enable to quantify such reactions to develop informative mathematical models. These models can be used to explain present environmental situations, trace back past events or even predict future conditions. Our results suggest, environmental stressing situations may affect donkeys in a way that they register the cognitive adaptations or sequels derived from such situations. Furthermore, such environmental events may not only affect the present cognitive status of the animals, but they may drive this cognitive record affecting the behavioral patterns donkeys display through their lives. Our model is able to explain 75.9% of the variability in response type and intensity, mood, or learning capabilities. Conclusively, donkeys can be used as an environment informative sensitive tool and may therefore, predict and register slight human-unappreciable climatic variations to which they may behaviorally adapt beforehand. Abstract Donkeys have been reported to be highly sensitive to environmental changes. Their 8900–8400-year-old evolution process made them interact with diverse environmental situations that were very distant from their harsh origins. These changing situations not only affect donkeys’ short-term behavior but may also determine their long-term cognitive skills from birth. Thus, animal behavior becomes a useful tool to obtain past, present or predict information from the environmental situation of a particular area. We performed an operant conditioning test on 300 donkeys to assess their response type, mood, response intensity, and learning capabilities, while we simultaneously registered 14 categorical environmental factors. We quantified the effect power of such environmental factors on donkey behavior and cognition. We used principal component analysis (CATPCA) to reduce the number of factors affecting each behavioral variable and built categorical regression (CATREG) equations to model for the effects of potential factor combinations. Effect power ranged from 7.9% for the birth season on learning (p < 0.05) to 38.8% for birth moon phase on mood (p < 0.001). CATPCA suggests the percentage of variance explained by a four-dimension-model (comprising the dimensions of response type, mood, response intensity and learning capabilities), is 75.9%. CATREG suggests environmental predictors explain 28.8% of the variability of response type, 37.0% of mood, and 37.5% of response intensity, and learning capabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Javier Navas González
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain.
- The Worldwide Donkey Breeds Project, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain.
| | - Jordi Jordana Vidal
- The Worldwide Donkey Breeds Project, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain.
- Departament de Ciència Animal i dels Aliments, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain.
| | - Gabriela Pizarro Inostroza
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain.
- The Worldwide Donkey Breeds Project, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain.
| | - Ander Arando Arbulu
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain.
- The Worldwide Donkey Breeds Project, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain.
| | - Juan Vicente Delgado Bermejo
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain.
- The Worldwide Donkey Breeds Project, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain.
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Navas FJ, Jordana J, León JM, Arando A, Pizarro G, McLean AK, Delgado JV. Measuring and modeling for the assessment of the genetic background behind cognitive processes in donkeys. Res Vet Sci 2017; 113:105-114. [PMID: 28934612 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2017.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2017] [Revised: 07/31/2017] [Accepted: 09/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
New productive niches can offer new commercial perspectives linked to donkeys' products and human therapeutic or leisure applications. However, no assessment for selection criteria has been carried out yet. First, we assessed the animal inherent features and environmental factors that may potentially influence several cognitive processes in donkeys. Then, we aimed at describing a practical methodology to quantify such cognitive processes, seeking their inclusion in breeding and conservation programmes, through a multifactorial linear model. Sixteen cognitive process-related traits were scored on a problem-solving test in a sample of 300 Andalusian donkeys for three consecutive years from 2013 to 2015. The linear model assessed the influence and interactions of four environmental factors, sex as an animal-inherent factor, age as a covariable, and the interactions between these factors. Analyses of variance were performed with GLM procedure of SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 24.0 software to assess the relative importance of each factor. All traits were significantly (P<0.05) affected by all factors in the model except for sex that was not significant for some of the cognitive processes, and stimulus which was not significant (P<0.05) for all of them except for the coping style related ones. The interaction between all factors within the model was non-significant (P<0.05) for almost all cognitive processes. The development of complex multifactorial models to study cognitive processes may counteract the inherent variability in behavior genetics and the estimation and prediction of related breeding parameters, key for the implementation of successful conservation programmes in apparently functionally misplaced endangered breeds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Javier Navas
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain; The Worldwide Donkey Breeds Project, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain.
| | - Jordi Jordana
- Departament de Ciència Animal i dels Aliments, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - José Manuel León
- Centro Agropecuario Provincial de Córdoba, Diputación Provincial de Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain
| | - Ander Arando
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain; The Worldwide Donkey Breeds Project, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain
| | - Gabriela Pizarro
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain; The Worldwide Donkey Breeds Project, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain
| | - Amy Katherine McLean
- Department of Animal Science, University of California Davis, 95616 Davis, CA, USA; The Worldwide Donkey Breeds Project, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain
| | - Juan Vicente Delgado
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain; The Worldwide Donkey Breeds Project, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain
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The prevalence of lameness and associated risk factors in cart mules in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia. Trop Anim Health Prod 2016; 48:1483-9. [DOI: 10.1007/s11250-016-1121-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2015] [Accepted: 08/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Oliveira JVD, Oliveira PVDLF, Melo e Oña CM, Guasti PN, Monteiro GA, Sancler da Silva YFR, Papa PDM, Alvarenga MA, Dell’Aqua Junior JA, Papa FO. Strategies to improve the fertility of fresh and frozen donkey semen. Theriogenology 2016; 85:1267-73. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2014] [Revised: 12/14/2015] [Accepted: 12/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Geiger M, Hovorka AJ. Using physical and emotional parameters to assess donkey welfare in Botswana. Vet Rec Open 2015; 2:e000062. [PMID: 26392888 PMCID: PMC4567146 DOI: 10.1136/vetreco-2014-000062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2014] [Revised: 12/15/2014] [Accepted: 01/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Working donkeys in Maun, Botswana contribute to people's livelihoods substantially through the provision of transport, ploughing and income generating activities. However, working donkeys suffer from various welfare issues that were investigated in this study to provide preliminary insights on their health and well-being. MATERIALS AND METHODS An assessment protocol involving direct observations of the donkeys was developed and operationalised to assess physical and emotional welfare. Physical welfare parameters such as body condition score, abnormal limbs, impeded gait, eye abnormalities, sore and scar locations, hoof and coat condition were recorded. Emotional welfare parameters such as eyes, tail movement, ear position, neck position, posture and vocalisation were recorded. In addition, donkey-owner interactions were recorded and scored, as well as the donkey's response to environmental factors. A total cross-section of 100 donkeys sub-stratified by roles of riding, cart pulling and resting were randomly selected in eight villages and three urban wards and assessed during the period of May to August 2012. RESULTS The findings reveals that the 100 adult working donkeys assessed were physically afflicted by poor BCSs of two (66 per cent), long and cracked hooves (50 per cent), sores on at least two locations on their body (53 per cent), scars on at least two locations on their body (86 per cent), and poor coat conditions (58 per cent). Emotionally, donkeys displayed unresponsiveness (35 per cent), avoidance (31 per cent), disinterest in hand sniffing (59 per cent), dull facial expression (33 per cent), tail stillness (89 per cent), neck stiffness and/or raised head (13 per cent) or head hanging low (32 per cent visibly withdrawn), and tense ears pointing back or to the side (69 per cent). By contrast, the remaining donkeys (31 per cent) exhibited a happy demeanour of curiosity, interest, alert facial expression, tail swishing, relaxed ears pointed to the side or forward and neck relaxed and/or level. CONCLUSIONS This study offers preliminary findings from an investigation into the welfare of working donkeys in Greater Maun, Botswana, and provides baseline research to inform future research and strategies to enhance donkey well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martha Geiger
- University of Bristol, School of Veterinary Sciences, Langford, Bristol, BS40 5DU, UK
| | - Alice J. Hovorka
- Queen's University, Department of Geography & School of Environmental Studies, Kingston, ON, CanadaK7L 3N6
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Overall KL. What horses can teach dogs about welfare and ethics. J Vet Behav 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2012.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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