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Giugliano R, Crescio MI, Cosma V, Ciccotelli V, Vivaldi B, Razzuoli E. Mortality and heavy metals environmental exposure: a study in dogs. Front Vet Sci 2024; 10:1297311. [PMID: 38249551 PMCID: PMC10796622 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1297311] [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: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Dogs are human companions and share environmental conditions with their owners. Epidemiological studies have shown that dogs seem to be good sentinel animals for the association of diseases and/or mortality provoked by chronic exposure to heavy metals (Cd, Pb). Methods In the present work, we analyze the registered death cases and population from the National Canine Registry from 2020 to 2022, involving a dog population of 582,564 and 17,507 deaths. The mortality rate in male and not-purebred dogs is higher than in female and purebred dogs, respectively. The mortality cases were cross-referenced with the environmental pollution data relating to the concentration of Cd and Pb detected, between 2012 and 2022, in the various municipalities of the Liguria region. We then calculated SMR (Standardized Mortality Rate) throughout the region and found that mortality increases from the eastern to the western Ligurian coast. Results and discussion We observed that the most polluted areas present the highest SMRs (IRR = 1.36, 95%CI: from 1.31 to 1.41). Considering dog ages, we found that mortality in young dogs is not affected by pollution, while mortality in old dogs (10-20 years old) is heavily affected by it (IRR = 8.97, 95%CI from 8.09 to 9.93). In conclusion, the data suggest the importance of canine health and biomonitor studies and provide a basis for future research involving both animal and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Giugliano
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, National Reference Center of Veterinary and Comparative Oncology (CEROVEC), Genova, Italy
| | - Maria Ines Crescio
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, National Reference Center of Veterinary and Comparative Oncology (CEROVEC), Genova, Italy
| | | | - Valentina Ciccotelli
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, National Reference Center of Veterinary and Comparative Oncology (CEROVEC), Genova, Italy
| | - Barbara Vivaldi
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, National Reference Center of Veterinary and Comparative Oncology (CEROVEC), Genova, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Razzuoli
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, National Reference Center of Veterinary and Comparative Oncology (CEROVEC), Genova, Italy
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2
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Pain DJ, Green RE, Bates N, Guiu M, Taggart MA. Lead concentrations in commercial dogfood containing pheasant in the UK. AMBIO 2023; 52:1339-1349. [PMID: 37131044 PMCID: PMC10272007 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-023-01856-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
UK and EU regulators are evaluating the potential health benefits of restricting the use of lead ammunition. Little information is available on exposure of pets to ammunition-derived dietary lead from petfood containing meat from wild-shot game animals. We found dogfood including wild-shot pheasant meat to be widely available in the UK. 77% of samples from three raw pheasant dogfood products exceeded the EU maximum residue level (MRL) for lead in animal feed, with mean concentrations approximately 245, 135 and 49 times above the MRL. Concentrations > MRL were also found in a dried food containing pheasant, but not in a processed food, nor in chicken-based products. Lead concentrations in raw pheasant dogfood considerably exceeded those in pheasant meat sold for human consumption, possibly because the dogfood mincing process further fragmented lead particles from shot. Dogs frequently consuming such high-lead food risk adverse health effects; this should be considered within decision-making processes about regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah J. Pain
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EJ UK
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, NR4 7TJ UK
| | - Rhys E. Green
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EJ UK
- Centre for Conservation Science, RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy, SG19 2DL Bedfordshire UK
| | - Nicola Bates
- Veterinary Poisons Information Service, 2nd Floor, Godfree Court, 29–35 Long Lane, London, SE1 4PL UK
| | - Maider Guiu
- Environmental Research Institute, University of the Highlands and Islands, Castle Street, Thurso, KW14 7AP UK
| | - Mark A. Taggart
- Environmental Research Institute, University of the Highlands and Islands, Castle Street, Thurso, KW14 7AP UK
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Hampton JO, Cobb ML, Toop SD, Flesch JS, Hyndman TH. Elevated lead exposure in Australian hunting dogs during a deer hunting season. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 323:121317. [PMID: 36828357 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
There is growing recognition of the threat posed by toxic lead-based ammunition. One group of domestic animals known to be susceptible to harmful lead exposure via this route is hunting dogs. Scent-trailing dogs ('hounds') are used to hunt introduced sambar deer (Cervus unicolor) during a prescribed eight-month (April-November) annual hunting season, during which they are fed fresh venison, in Victoria, south-eastern Australia. We used this annual season as a natural experiment to undertake longitudinal sampling of dogs for lead exposure. Blood was collected from 27 dogs owned by four different deer hunters and comprising three different breeds just prior to the start of the hound hunting season (March 2022) and in the middle of the season (August 2022), and blood lead levels (BLLs) (μg/dL) were determined via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Using Tobit regression, the expected BLLs across all dogs were significantly lower before the season (0.50 μg/dL, standard error [SE] = 0.32 μg/dL) than during the season (1.39 μg/dL, SE = 0.35 μg/dL) (p = 0.01). However, when the breed of dog was included in the analyses, this effect was only significant in beagles (P < 0.001), not bloodhounds (p = 0.73) or harriers (p = 0.43). For 32% of the dogs before the season, and 56% during the season, BLLs exceeded the established threshold concentration for developmental neurotoxicity in humans (1.2 μg/dL). Time since most recent venison feeding, sex of dog and owner were not associated with BLLs. The finding that BLLs more than doubled during the hunting season indicates that lead exposure is a risk in this context. These results expand the sphere of impact from environmental lead in Australia from wild animals and humans, to include some groups of domestic animals, a textbook example of a One Health issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan O Hampton
- Animal Welfare Science Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia; Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Western Australia, 6150, Australia.
| | - Mia L Cobb
- Animal Welfare Science Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia
| | - Simon D Toop
- Game Management Authority, Level 2, 535 Bourke Street, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000, Australia
| | - Jason S Flesch
- Game Management Authority, Level 2, 535 Bourke Street, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000, Australia
| | - Timothy H Hyndman
- Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Western Australia, 6150, Australia; School of Veterinary Medicine, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Western Australia, 6150, Australia
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4
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Hampton JO, Pain DJ, Buenz E, Firestone SM, Arnemo JM. Lead contamination in Australian game meat. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:50713-50722. [PMID: 36797390 PMCID: PMC10104915 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-25949-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
Lead-based ammunition (gunshot and bullets) frequently leaves small lead fragments embedded in the meat of wild-shot game animals. Australia produces several commercial game meat products from wild animals harvested with lead-based ammunition and has a growing population of recreational hunters. However, no studies have previously investigated the frequency of lead fragments or lead concentrations in Australian game meat. We examined 133 Australian minced game meat items of four types for evidence of lead contamination. Samples were meat from kangaroos (Macropus and Osphranter spp.; n=36) and Bennett's wallabies (Notamacropus rufogriseus; n=28) sold for human consumption, and deer ('venison'; multiple spp.; n=32) and stubble quail (Coturnix pectoralis; n=37) harvested for private consumption by recreational hunters. All packages were studied by digital radiography to detect the presence of radio-dense fragments, assumed to be lead fragments from ammunition. Visible fragments were absent in commercially available kangaroo products, but were present in 4%, 28% and 35% of wallaby, venison and quail, respectively. Mean meat lead concentrations (mg/kg wet weight) were 0.01 ± 0.01 for kangaroo, 0.02 ± 0.01 for wallaby, 0.12 ± 0.07 for venison, and 1.76 ± 3.76 for quail. The Australian food standards threshold for livestock meat (0.1 mg/kg w.w.) was not exceeded by any kangaroo or wallaby products but was exceeded by 53% and 86% of venison and quail, respectively. Radiography only detected 35% of samples that were above the food safety threshold. While average lead concentrations in commercially available macropod (kangaroo and wallaby) meat were low, those in recreationally harvested game meat may pose health risks for hunters and associated consumers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan O Hampton
- Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia.
- Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, 6150, Australia.
| | - Deborah J Pain
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3QZ, UK
| | - Eric Buenz
- Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology, Nelson, 7010, New Zealand
| | - Simon M Firestone
- Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia
| | - Jon M Arnemo
- Department of Forestry and Wildlife Management, Faculty of Applied Ecology and Agricultural Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Koppang, Norway
- Department of Wildlife, Fish and Environmental Studies, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Umeå, Sweden
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Chen X, Cao S, Wen D, Geng Y, Duan X. Sentinel animals for monitoring the environmental lead exposure: combination of traditional review and visualization analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND HEALTH 2023; 45:561-584. [PMID: 35348990 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-022-01241-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
In nature, certain animals share a common living environment with humans, thus these animals have become biomonitors of health effects related to various environmental exposures. As one of the most toxic environmental chemicals, lead (Pb) can cause detriment health effects to animals, plants, and even humans through different exposure pathways such as atmosphere, soil, food, water, and dust, etc. Sentinel animals played an "indicative" role in the researches of environmental pollution monitoring and human health. In order to comprehend the usage of sentinel animals in the indication of environmental Pb pollution and human Pb exposure completely, a combination of traditional review and visualization analysis based on CiteSpace literature was used to review earlier researches in this study. In the first instance, present researches on exposure sources and exposure pathways of Pb were summarized briefly, and then the studies using sentinel animals to monitor environmental heavy metal pollution and human health were combed. Finally, visualization software CiteSpace 5.8.R3 was used to explore and analyze the hotspots and frontiers of lead exposure and sentinel animals researches at home and abroad. The results showed that certain mammals were good indicators for human lead exposure. Sentinel animals had been widely used to monitor the ecological environment and human lead exposure. Among them, the blood lead levels of small mammals, particularly for domestic dogs and cats, had a significant correlation with the blood lead levels of human living in the same environment. It indicated that certain biological indicators in animals can be used as surrogates to monitor human body exposure to heavy metals. This study also explored the challenges and perspectives that may be faced in sentinel animal research, in order to provide a certain theoretical basis and train of thought guidance for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Chen
- School of Energy and Environmental Engineering, Beijing Key Laboratory of Resource-Oriented Treatment of Industrial Pollutants, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Xueyuan Road 30, Haidian District, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - SuZhen Cao
- School of Energy and Environmental Engineering, Beijing Key Laboratory of Resource-Oriented Treatment of Industrial Pollutants, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Xueyuan Road 30, Haidian District, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Dongsen Wen
- School of Energy and Environmental Engineering, Beijing Key Laboratory of Resource-Oriented Treatment of Industrial Pollutants, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Xueyuan Road 30, Haidian District, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Yishuo Geng
- School of Energy and Environmental Engineering, Beijing Key Laboratory of Resource-Oriented Treatment of Industrial Pollutants, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Xueyuan Road 30, Haidian District, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Xiaoli Duan
- School of Energy and Environmental Engineering, Beijing Key Laboratory of Resource-Oriented Treatment of Industrial Pollutants, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Xueyuan Road 30, Haidian District, Beijing, 100083, China.
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Rosendahl S, Anturaniemi J, Vuori KA, Moore R, Hemida M, Hielm-Björkman A. Diet and dog characteristics affect major and trace elements in hair and blood of healthy dogs. Vet Res Commun 2021; 46:261-275. [PMID: 34741715 PMCID: PMC8791866 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-021-09854-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Obtaining correct amounts of essential elements, and avoiding toxic metals are key factors in dog health. Through analyzing major and trace elements in hair and blood of 50 healthy companion dogs using ICP-MS, we study their associations with dog characteristics and diet, hypothesizing that eating the same diet long-term results in strong correlations between hair and blood element concentrations, and that dog characteristics and diet affect element status. The correlation between hair and blood was significant for Hg (R = 0.601, p = 0.000) and Pb (R = 0.384, p = 0.010). The following associations were significant (p < 0.05): Dark hair had higher Ca and Mg compared to light hair. Females had higher hair Zn, blood Mn, and blood As compared to males. Blood Mn and Se increased, while blood Pb decreased with age. Raw diet fed dogs had higher hair Zn and Se compared to dry or mixed diet fed dogs, and lower blood Mn compared to dry diet fed dogs. Dry and mixed diet fed dogs had higher blood Cd compared to raw diet fed dogs. Mixed diet fed dogs had higher hair Ca and Mg compared to raw or dry diet fed dogs, and higher hair Pb compared to dry diet fed dogs. Wild game consumption was associated with higher blood Pb, and rice consumption with higher blood As. In conclusion, hair provides an alternative for assessing Hg and Pb exposure, and major and trace elements status is affected by hair color, sex, age, and diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Rosendahl
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Johanna Anturaniemi
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kristiina A Vuori
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Robin Moore
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Manal Hemida
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anna Hielm-Björkman
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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8
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Toxic element levels in ingredients and commercial pet foods. Sci Rep 2021; 11:21007. [PMID: 34697366 PMCID: PMC8546090 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-00467-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Nowadays, there is a growing concern about contamination of toxic metals (TM) in pet food due to the great potential for health risks of these elements. TM concentrations in commercial pet foods (n = 100) as well as in ingredients used in their composition (n = 100) were analyzed and compared to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) maximum tolerable level (MTL), and the TM concentrations found in the different sources of carbohydrate, protein, and fat were compared. The TM concentrations were determined by inductively coupled plasma with optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). Concentrations above the MTL for aluminum, mercury, lead, uranium, and vanadium were observed in both dog and cat foods, and the percentage of dog foods that exceeded the MTL of these TM were: 31.9%; 100%; 80.55%; 95.83%; and 75%, respectively, and in cat foods: 10.71%; 100%; 32.14%; 85.71%; 28.57%, respectively. The MTL values of these TMs and the mean values in dog foods (mg/kg dry matter basis) (MTL [mean ± standard deviation]) were: aluminum: 200 (269.17 ± 393.74); mercury: 0.27 (2.51 ± 1.31); lead: 10 (12.55 ± 4.30); uranium: 10 (76.82 ± 28.09); vanadium: 1 (1.35 ± 0.69), while in cat foods were: aluminum: 200 (135.51 ± 143.95); mercury: 0.27 (3.47 ± 4.31); lead: 10 (9.13 ± 5.42); uranium: 10 (49.83 ± 29.18); vanadium: 1 (0.81 ± 0.77). Dry foods presented higher concentrations of most TM (P < 0.05) than wet foods (P < 0.05). Among the carbohydrate sources, there were the highest levels of all TM except cobalt, mercury, and nickel in wheat bran (P < 0.05), while among the protein sources, in general, animal by-products had higher TM concentrations than plant-based ingredients. Pork fat had higher concentrations of arsenic, mercury, and antimony than fish oil and poultry fat. It was concluded that the pet foods evaluated in this study presented high concentrations of the following TM: aluminum, mercury, lead, uranium, and vanadium.
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Fernández V, Caselli A, Tammone A, Condorí WE, Vanstreels RET, Delaloye A, Sosa C, Uhart MM. Lead exposure in dogs fed game meat and offal from culled invasive species in El Palmar National Park, Argentina. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:45486-45495. [PMID: 33864223 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-13880-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This is the first field study to evaluate lead exposure in dogs fed game meat and offal and, to our knowledge, the first study exploring associations between game consumption and dog health status. We quantified lead concentrations in blood and hair and haematological parameters of 31 dogs fed game meat and offal from wild boar (Sus scrofa) and axis deer (Axis axis) culled with lead ammunition in El Palmar National Park, Argentina. Despite variable weekly frequency in game consumption, dogs had detectable blood and hair lead levels, demonstrating recent and chronic exposure. Lead geometric mean and SD were 18.91 ± 346.85 μg/dL w.w. in blood (range = 0.53-216.58), and 0.721 ± 6.444 μg/gr d.w. in hair (range = 0.007-34.800). Hair lead levels were relatively low in most samples, except for the oldest dog which had an atypically high value concurrent with anaemia, a common outcome of chronic lead exposure. Dog's owner was significantly predictive of both blood and hair lead levels, which reflects the same feeding patterns for all dogs owned by the same person. Body condition was associated with hair lead, with dogs in good condition presenting higher lead levels. This could be related to greater game consumption by those dogs, resulting in higher lead ingestion. Dogs fed game meat and offal at very low or low frequency (≤4 times per week) showed higher blood lead levels, suggesting there might not be a risk-free frequency for game provision to dogs. Considering the risks of dietary lead exposure, avoiding feeding dogs lead-killed game and replacing lead ammunition with non-toxic alternatives are recommended. This would allow using hunted game as a valuable food resource without unnecessary risk for the health of consumers and the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Fernández
- Programa de Conservación Comunitaria del Territorio, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Centro de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, Tandil, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Andrea Caselli
- Programa de Conservación Comunitaria del Territorio, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Centro de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, Tandil, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Agostina Tammone
- Programa de Conservación Comunitaria del Territorio, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Centro de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, Tandil, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones Veterinarias (CONICET-CIVETAN), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Centro de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, Tandil, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Walter Ezequiel Condorí
- Programa de Conservación Comunitaria del Territorio, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Centro de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, Tandil, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ralph Eric Thijl Vanstreels
- One Health Institute, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
- Institute of Research and Rehabilitation of Marine Animals (IPRAM), Cariacica, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - Aldo Delaloye
- Parque Nacional El Palmar, Administración de Parques Nacionales, Ubajay, Entre Ríos, Argentina
| | - Cristian Sosa
- Parque Nacional El Palmar, Administración de Parques Nacionales, Ubajay, Entre Ríos, Argentina
| | - Marcela María Uhart
- One Health Institute, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
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Ridgway M. Hunting Dogs. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 2021; 51:877-890. [PMID: 34059261 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2021.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Herding and hunting dogs are intense, high-drive dogs that work, and often live, outdoors and in constant or repeated close contact with domestic and wild animals. These dogs are at increased risk for injury and exposure to infectious diseases, toxic substances, and environmental threats. The common practice of feeding or allowing access to raw meat from farm or game animals enhances disease transmission risk. These dogs can be affected by infectious diseases and injurious agents that are rarely encountered in other groups of dogs. In addition, their extreme work ethic may lead to delays in diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcella Ridgway
- University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, 1008 West Hazelwood Drive, Urbana, IL 61802, USA.
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11
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Meucci V, Battaglia F, Marchetti V, Gori E, Intorre L. Rapid and simultaneous electrochemical method to measure copper and lead in canine liver biopsy. MethodsX 2020; 7:101154. [PMID: 33299808 PMCID: PMC7701836 DOI: 10.1016/j.mex.2020.101154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The conventional analytical techniques used for the quantitative analysis of heavy metals in animal tissues are the atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) and the inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). These methods involve high cost, skilled personnel and long analysis times. Several studies have shown the applicability of electrochemical transducer coupled to disposable screen-printed electrodes (SPE) for measuring metals. The aim of the present study was to applicate and validate a simple and fast protocol for the simultaneous measurement of Cu and Pb concentrations in canine liver biopsy, coupling a simple digestion procedure with electrochemical stripping analysis. Square wave anodic stripping voltammetry (SWASV) coupled to disposable SPE was employed as fast and sensitive method for metals detection. Samples were digested with hydrogen peroxide/hydrochloric acid mixture for 1 h coupled to solid phase purification with carbon columns. Instrumental precision, digestion procedure accuracy and limits of detections were evaluated. To validate the proposed method the metal concentrations have also been determined by AAS. Instrumental precision and digestion method accuracy were less than 15.3% and 16.8% for Cu and Pb, respectively. The limits of detection were 10 and 6 mg/kg dry weight in liver samples for Cu and Pb, respectively. The results obtained by the electrochemical method are in agreement with those of the reference method. The obtained results showed a reliable approach for Cu and Pb detection simultaneously with good sensitivity, accuracy and precision. The simple sample pre-treatment together with the low cost makes this approach particularly appealing for Cu and Pb quantification for diagnostic purposes.Simultaneous determination of Cu and Pb concentrations in canine liver biopsy. Square wave anodic stripping voltammetry (SWASV) with screen-printed electrodes (SPE) coupled to an acid digestion protocol. Cu and Pb were measured with a very good sensitivity and accuracy. Good agreement with AAS reference method. Low cost, fast and sensitive method for diagnostic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Meucci
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Pisa, 56122 Via Livornese, San Piero a Grado, Pisa, Italy
| | - Federica Battaglia
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Pisa, 56122 Via Livornese, San Piero a Grado, Pisa, Italy
| | - Veronica Marchetti
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Pisa, 56122 Via Livornese, San Piero a Grado, Pisa, Italy
| | - Eleonora Gori
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Pisa, 56122 Via Livornese, San Piero a Grado, Pisa, Italy
| | - Luigi Intorre
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Pisa, 56122 Via Livornese, San Piero a Grado, Pisa, Italy
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Jubril AJ, Obasa AA, Mohammed SA, Olopade JO, Taiwo VO. Neuropathological lesions in the brains of goats in North-Western Nigeria: possible impact of artisanal mining. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 26:36589-36597. [PMID: 31732952 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-019-06611-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Indiscriminate small-scale artisanal gold mining activities were reported to have caused anthropogenic heavy metal environmental pollution in Zamfara State, north-western Nigeria. There is little or no information on the neurotoxic effects and related neuropathological lesions due to environmental pollution in the animal population. Therefore, this work investigated the concentration of heavy metal and associated lesions in the brain of goats around an artisanal mining site in Zamfara. Brain samples were collected from 40 goats at slaughter slabs in Bagega (Zamfara State) while 15 goats with the same demography but without a history of environmental exposure at the time of this study served as controls. The concentration of lead and cadmium in brain tissue and histopathologic changes were assessed using atomic absorption spectrophotometry, histology and immunohistochemistry. The metal concentrations were significantly higher in exposed goats than in the unexposed animals. Cresyl violet staining and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) immunohistochemistry indicated chromatolysis and increased astrocytic activity respectively in the exposed goats. This study is of epidemiological importance as it shows a generalised increase of the metal concentrations in the brain of goats exposed to artisanal mining in Zamfara, north-western Nigeria. This could have health effects on the animals associated with nervous co-ordination, growth and development and as a good sentinel for pathogenesis of the heavy metal exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afusat J Jubril
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | | | - Shehu A Mohammed
- Department of Environment, State Ministry of Environment, Gusau, Nigeria
| | - James O Olopade
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.
| | - Victor O Taiwo
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
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Andreani G, Cannavacciuolo A, Menotta S, Spallucci V, Fedrizzi G, Carpenè E, Isani G. Environmental exposure to non-essential trace elements in two bat species from urbanised (Tadarida teniotis) and open land (Miniopterus schreibersii) areas in Italy. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2019; 254:113034. [PMID: 31465904 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.113034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Revised: 08/05/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Bats are particularly suited as bioindicators of trace element pollution due to their longevity and their position in the trophic chain. In this study, the concentrations of ten non-essential trace elements (Al, As, Ba, Cd, Hg, Pb, Sb, Sr, Th, Tl) were determined in the tissues (whole body, skin-fur, skinned body, liver, kidney and bone) of lactant Tadarida teniotis from a nursery colony in Rome. A large number of bats from this nursery died before fledging and had bone deformities and fractures. The concentrations of non-essential trace elements in bone and whole body were also analysed in adult specimens of Miniopterus schreibersii from a colony located in a natural park in Northern Italy. In lactant T. teniotis, the Pb concentration decreased in the following order: bone>liver>skinned body>whole body>skin-fur>kidney, and exceeded the toxic threshold associated with negative effects reported for different mammalian species. The levels of the other non-essential trace elements were within a range indicative of low environmental contamination in both species. Significant interspecies differences (P < 0.05) were observed for concentrations of Pb and Ba, higher in the bones of T. teniotis, and of Cd, Hg and Sr, higher in the bones of M. schreibersii. In lactant T. teniotis, the different sources of Pb exposure, through inhalation and/or food, may represent a potential threat to the colony of this synanthropic European bat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Andreani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, via Tolara di sopra 50, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Annunziata Cannavacciuolo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana "M. Aleandri", via Appia Nuova 1411 Roma, Italy; Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell'Emilia Romagna, Chemical Department, via P. Fiorini 5, Bologna, Italy
| | - Simonetta Menotta
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell'Emilia Romagna, Chemical Department, via P. Fiorini 5, Bologna, Italy
| | - Valentina Spallucci
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana "M. Aleandri", via Appia Nuova 1411 Roma, Italy
| | - Giorgio Fedrizzi
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell'Emilia Romagna, Chemical Department, via P. Fiorini 5, Bologna, Italy
| | - Emilio Carpenè
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, via Tolara di sopra 50, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
| | - Gloria Isani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, via Tolara di sopra 50, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna, Italy
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14
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Cromie R, Newth J, Strong E. Transitioning to non-toxic ammunition: Making change happen. AMBIO 2019; 48:1079-1096. [PMID: 31257560 PMCID: PMC6675834 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-019-01204-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
If the multiple negative health impacts associated with lead ammunition are to be mitigated, a transition to the non-toxic alternatives is needed. This paper aims to map out the pathways to such a transition via a modification of Kotter's eight step theory of change, identifying key stakeholders, exploring options for those of us advocating change and the relationships between policy and persuasion. The focus is primarily on the UK, but it is of direct relevance to the rest of Europe and beyond. The theory of change model involves (1) creating urgency, (2) building coalitions, (3) creating a vision for change, (4) communicating that vision, (5) removing barriers to enable action, (6) creating short-term or geospatial wins, (7) building on the change and (8) embedding change in culture and regulation. The paper reflects on good progress to date in initial steps, but throughout subsequent steps creative engagement and other disciplines which appreciate the human dimensions such as mediation and psychology of behaviour change have been lacking. Although significant barriers remain for Step 5, the paper identifies the central vision of sustainability of hunting as a shared value around which most stakeholders can engage. The paper concludes that, given the growing momentum surrounding this issue in recent years, the phasing out of lead ammunition is at a tipping point.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Cromie
- Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT, UK.
| | - Julia Newth
- Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT, UK
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Cornwall Campus, Penryn, TR10 9EZ, UK
- Environment and Sustainability Institute, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Cornwall Campus, Penryn, TR10 9EZ, UK
| | - Emily Strong
- Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT, UK
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15
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Pain DJ, Dickie I, Green RE, Kanstrup N, Cromie R. Wildlife, human and environmental costs of using lead ammunition: An economic review and analysis. AMBIO 2019; 48:969-988. [PMID: 30879269 PMCID: PMC6675822 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-019-01157-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2018] [Revised: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
A proposed European Union (EU)-wide restriction on the use of lead gunshot for shooting in and over wetlands estimated that the societal benefits of a restriction outweighed costs, despite few identified benefits being quantified economically. A subsequent Annex XV Investigation Report on the evidence of impacts of lead ammunition in terrestrial environments concluded that additional measures to control its use are warranted, although to date this has not been further evaluated. To help inform this process, we review the literature and undertake new analyses to estimate the costs of continued use of lead ammunition associated with impacts on wildlife, people and the environment. We estimate minimum annual direct costs across the EU and Europe of c. €383 million-€960 million and €444 million-€1.3 thousand million respectively. The value that society places on being able to avoid these losses, estimated using a 'willingness to pay' approach, was c. €2.2 thousand million for wildfowl alone. Our estimated costs of the continued use of lead ammunition across the EU appear to be considerably greater than the likely costs of switching to non-toxic alternative ammunition types, although these have not been formally estimated in full.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah J. Pain
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, David Attenborough Building, Pembroke Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QZ UK
- Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT UK
| | - Ian Dickie
- eftec - economics for the environment, 4 City Road, London, EC1Y 2AA UK
| | - Rhys E. Green
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, David Attenborough Building, Pembroke Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QZ UK
| | - Niels Kanstrup
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Grenåvej 14, 8410 Rønde, Denmark
| | - Ruth Cromie
- Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT UK
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16
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Liatis T, Monti P, Latre AR, Mantis P, Cherubini GB. Lead intoxication mimicking idiopathic epilepsy in a young dog. VETERINARY RECORD CASE REPORTS 2019. [DOI: 10.1136/vetreccr-2018-000703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Theophanes Liatis
- Neurology & Neurosurgery ServiceDick White ReferralsSix Mile BottomUK
| | - Paola Monti
- Diagnostic Pathology LaboratoryDick White ReferralsSix Mile BottomUnited Kingdom
| | | | - Panagiotis Mantis
- Diagnostic Imaging ServiceDick White ReferralsSix Mile BottomUnited Kingdom
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17
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Hivert LG, Clarke JR, Peck SJ, Lawrence C, Brown WE, Huxtable SJ, Schaap D, Pemberton D, Grueber CE. High blood lead concentrations in captive Tasmanian devils (
Sarcophilus harrisii
): a threat to the conservation of the species? Aust Vet J 2018; 96:442-449. [DOI: 10.1111/avj.12753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Revised: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- LG Hivert
- Save the Tasmanian Devil Program, Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment Hobart Tasmania Australia
- Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire de Toulouse Toulouse Cedex 3 France
| | - JR Clarke
- Save the Tasmanian Devil Program, Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment Hobart Tasmania Australia
| | - SJ Peck
- Save the Tasmanian Devil Program, Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment Hobart Tasmania Australia
| | - C Lawrence
- Save the Tasmanian Devil Program, Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment Hobart Tasmania Australia
| | - WE Brown
- Save the Tasmanian Devil Program, Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment Hobart Tasmania Australia
| | - SJ Huxtable
- Save the Tasmanian Devil Program, Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment Hobart Tasmania Australia
| | - D Schaap
- Save the Tasmanian Devil Program, Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment Hobart Tasmania Australia
| | - D Pemberton
- Save the Tasmanian Devil Program, Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment Hobart Tasmania Australia
| | - CE Grueber
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science The University of Sydney New South Wales 2006 Australia
- San Diego Zoo Global San Diego CA USA
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Kim HT, Loftus JP, Mann S, Wakshlag JJ. Evaluation of Arsenic, Cadmium, Lead and Mercury Contamination in Over-the-Counter Available Dry Dog Foods With Different Animal Ingredients (Red Meat, Poultry, and Fish). Front Vet Sci 2018; 5:264. [PMID: 30410919 PMCID: PMC6209665 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2018.00264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Accepted: 10/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: To examine the relative levels of heavy metals and arsenic content in commercial dog foods (arsenic, cadmium, lead and mercury) of 51 over-the-counter maintenance or all-life-stage dry dog foods. All products were chosen and segregated based on meat sources (fish, poultry, red-meat—17 products from each category) as animal protein sources being the primary contaminated ingredient due to bioaccumulation. Methods: Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was performed on products that were classified as fish, red meat (beef, pork, venison, bison) or poultry (chicken, turkey, duck) based. A non-Gaussian data distribution for each heavy metal within category distribution led to non-parametric statistical testing and median (range) descriptive statistics. Comparison to average human consumption based on mg/megacalorie (Mcal)was also examined. Results: Based on caloric consumption, total arsenic and heavy metal consumption is higher in dogs than in humans; however chronic toxic exposure levels are highly unlikely. Fish-based diets had significantly higher arsenic, cadmium and mercury content than the poultry or red meat-based diets (p < 0.01). Red meat-based diets (beef, venison and bison) had higher lead concentrations than poultry and fish-based diets (p < 0.03). Clinical Significance: Based on the findings, commercial dog foods appear to be safe for chronic consumption and concentrations of the heavy metals were dependent on primary protein sources. Overall, poultry-based diets had relatively lower heavy metal and arsenic content than red meat and fish-based diets. Despite the safety of most pet foods occasional outliers for lead render some concern for chronic exposure based on other species toxicity data and a lack of data in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun-Tae Kim
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | - John P Loftus
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | - Sabine Mann
- Department of Population Medicine, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY, United states
| | - Joseph J Wakshlag
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY, United States
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19
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Pereira AM, Pinto E, Matos E, Castanheira F, Almeida AA, Baptista CS, Segundo MA, Fonseca AJM, Cabrita ARJ. Mineral Composition of Dry Dog Foods: Impact on Nutrition and Potential Toxicity. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2018; 66:7822-7830. [PMID: 29953228 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.8b02552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Detailed mineral profile of a selection of commercially available complete dry dog foods was determined using ICP-MS (Se, Cu, Mn, Zn, and nonessential trace elements), flame photometry (Na and K) and atomic and molecular spectrophotometry (Ca, P, Mg, and Fe). The contribution of ingredients to the mineral composition was correlated to the food market segment. Results showed an oversupply of essential elements due to the energy density effect on feed intake. Additives contributed from 40.8 to 55.1% to the total trace elements contents. With the exception of Se, all trace elements were supplied above the nutritional requirements of adult dogs. Legal limits of Cu, Se, and Zn were surpassed. The content of nonessential trace elements included values in the range of nanograms to micrograms per kg, without surpassing safe upper limits. This work brings awareness to the need to find supplementation strategies that ensure nutritional adequacy and avoid waste.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Margarida Pereira
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas de Abel Salazar (ICBAS) , Universidade do Porto , Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira no. 228 , 4050-313 Porto , Portugal
| | - Edgar Pinto
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Departamento de Ciências Químicas, Faculdade de Farmácia , Universidade do Porto , Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira no. 228 , 4050-313 Porto , Portugal
| | - Elisabete Matos
- SORGAL, Sociedade de Óleos e Rações S.A. , Estrada Nacional 109 Lugar da Pardala , 3880-728 S. João Ovar , Portugal
| | - Francisco Castanheira
- Alltechaditivos - Alimentação Animal Lda. , Parque de Monserrate - Av. Dr. Luis Sá n° 9 - Arm. A , 2710-089 Abrunheira , Portugal
| | - Agostinho A Almeida
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Departamento de Ciências Químicas, Faculdade de Farmácia , Universidade do Porto , Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira no. 228 , 4050-313 Porto , Portugal
| | - Cláudia S Baptista
- CECA-ICETA, Departamento de Clínicas Veterinárias, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas de Abel Salazar (ICBAS) , Universidade do Porto , Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira no. 228 , 4050-313 Porto , Portugal
| | - Marcela A Segundo
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Departamento de Ciências Químicas, Faculdade de Farmácia , Universidade do Porto , Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira no. 228 , 4050-313 Porto , Portugal
| | - António J M Fonseca
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas de Abel Salazar (ICBAS) , Universidade do Porto , Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira no. 228 , 4050-313 Porto , Portugal
| | - Ana R J Cabrita
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas de Abel Salazar (ICBAS) , Universidade do Porto , Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira no. 228 , 4050-313 Porto , Portugal
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20
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Hampton JO, Laidlaw M, Buenz E, Arnemo JM. Heads in the sand: public health and ecological risks of lead-based bullets for wildlife shooting in Australia. WILDLIFE RESEARCH 2018. [DOI: 10.1071/wr17180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Lead (Pb) is a toxic element banned from fuel, paint and many other products in most developed countries. Nonetheless, it is still widely used in ammunition, including rifle bullets, and Pb-based bullets are almost universally used in Australia. For decades, poisoning from Pb shot (shotguns) has been recognised as a cause of disease in waterfowl and Pb shot has been subsequently banned for waterfowl hunting in many jurisdictions. However, the risks posed by Pb-based bullets (rifles) have not been similarly recognised in Australia. Pb-based rifle bullets frequently fragment, contaminating the tissue of shot animals. Consuming this Pb-contaminated tissue risks harmful Pb exposure and, thus, the health of wildlife scavengers (carrion eaters) and humans and their companion animals who consume harvested meat (game eaters). In Europe, North America and elsewhere, the environmental and human health risks of Pb-based bullets are widely recognised, and non-toxic alternatives (e.g. copper-based bullets) are increasingly being used. However, Australia has no comparable research despite widespread use of shooting, common scavenging by potentially susceptible wildlife species, and people regularly consuming shot meat. We conclude that Australia has its collective ‘head in the sand’ on this pressing worldwide One Health issue. We present the need for urgent research into this field in Australia.
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