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Ripplinger EN, Crespo R, Pullin AN, Carnaccini S, Nelson NC, Trindade PHE, Reichelt S, Pairis-Garcia M. Efficacy of a novel cervical dislocation tool for humane euthanasia of broilers and broiler breeders. Poult Sci 2024; 103:103449. [PMID: 38277886 PMCID: PMC10832470 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2024.103449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Euthanasia is an essential task performed daily on commercial poultry farms around the world to safeguard animal welfare. Manual cervical dislocation (MCD) is the most common euthanasia method but can be challenging to perform given the physical strength required to implement this technique. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a novel cervical dislocation tool (NCDT) compared to MCD. A total of 60 Ross 308 chickens (6-wk old) and 60 Ross 706 parent stock breeders (21-wk old) were enrolled in the study. Birds were sexed, blocked by body weight, and allocated to 1 of 2 treatments: 1) MCD and 2) NCDT. Immediately following euthanasia application, insensibility, and death were monitored. Once death was confirmed, gross evaluation, radiograph, and macroscopic/microscopic scoring were performed. Both euthanasia methods were 100% effective in achieving insensibility followed by cardiac and respiratory arrest in both age groups. In 6-wk-old broilers, there were no differences in insensibility measures or location and severity of the dislocation site by treatment. The NCDT treatment group showed an increased frequency of fractures located at the tooth-like process that projects from the cranial aspect of the centrum of the axis (dens) but had no impact on bird insensibility. For parent stock, differences in nictitating membrane reflex (NMR) and laceration scores for birds euthanized with NCDT were found and likely associated with additional force exerted with the tool. The NCDT is a promising replacement for MCD and future work should address the development of free and accessible training materials for on-farm use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliza N Ripplinger
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Rocio Crespo
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Allison N Pullin
- Prestage Department of Poultry Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | | | - Nathan C Nelson
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Pedro Henrique Esteves Trindade
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | | | - Monique Pairis-Garcia
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.
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Simancas-Racines A, Cadena-Ullauri S, Guevara-Ramírez P, Zambrano AK, Simancas-Racines D. Avian Influenza: Strategies to Manage an Outbreak. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12040610. [PMID: 37111496 PMCID: PMC10145843 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12040610] [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: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Avian influenza (AI) is a contagious disease among the poultry population with high avian mortality, which generates significant economic losses and elevated costs for disease control and outbreak eradication. AI is caused by an RNA virus part of the Orthomyxoviridae family; however, only Influenzavirus A is capable of infecting birds. AI pathogenicity is based on the lethality, signs, and molecular characteristics of the virus. Low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) virus has a low mortality rate and ability to infect, whereas the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus can cross respiratory and intestinal barriers, diffuse to the blood, damage all tissues of the bird, and has a high mortality rate. Nowadays, avian influenza is a global public health concern due to its zoonotic potential. Wild waterfowl is the natural reservoir of AI viruses, and the oral-fecal path is the main transmission route between birds. Similarly, transmission to other species generally occurs after virus circulation in densely populated infected avian species, indicating that AI viruses can adapt to promote the spread. Moreover, HPAI is a notifiable animal disease; therefore, all countries must report infections to the health authorities. Regarding laboratory diagnoses, the presence of influenza virus type A can be identified by agar gel immunodiffusion (AGID), enzyme immunoassay (EIA), immunofluorescence assays, and enzyme-linked immunoadsorption assay (ELISAs). Furthermore, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction is used for viral RNA detection and is considered the gold standard for the management of suspect and confirmed cases of AI. If there is suspicion of a case, epidemiological surveillance protocols must be initiated until a definitive diagnosis is obtained. Moreover, if there is a confirmed case, containment actions should be prompt and strict precautions must be taken when handling infected poultry cases or infected materials. The containment measures for confirmed cases include the sanitary slaughter of infected poultry using methods such as environment saturation with CO2, carbon dioxide foam, and cervical dislocation. For disposal, burial, and incineration, protocols should be followed. Lastly, disinfection of affected poultry farms must be carried out. The present review aims to provide an overview of the avian influenza virus, strategies for its management, the challenges an outbreak can generate, and recommendations for informed decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Simancas-Racines
- Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias y Recursos Naturales, Carrera de Medicina Veterinaria Universidad Técnica de Cotopaxi, Latacunga 050108, Ecuador
- Centro de Investigación Genética y Genómica, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud Eugenio Espejo, Universidad UTE, Quito 170129, Ecuador
- Centro de Investigación de Salud Pública y Epidemiología Clínica (CISPEC), Universidad UTE, Quito 170129, Ecuador
| | - Santiago Cadena-Ullauri
- Centro de Investigación Genética y Genómica, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud Eugenio Espejo, Universidad UTE, Quito 170129, Ecuador
| | - Patricia Guevara-Ramírez
- Centro de Investigación Genética y Genómica, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud Eugenio Espejo, Universidad UTE, Quito 170129, Ecuador
| | - Ana Karina Zambrano
- Centro de Investigación Genética y Genómica, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud Eugenio Espejo, Universidad UTE, Quito 170129, Ecuador
| | - Daniel Simancas-Racines
- Centro de Investigación de Salud Pública y Epidemiología Clínica (CISPEC), Universidad UTE, Quito 170129, Ecuador
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Clarkson JM, Paraskevopoulou A, Martin JE. A decade on: where is the UK poultry industry for emergency on-farm killing? Poult Sci 2023; 102:102604. [PMID: 36958061 PMCID: PMC10041559 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.102604] [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: 12/03/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Millions of poultry are farmed intensively every year across the United Kingdom (UK) to produce both meat and eggs. There are inevitable situations that require birds to be emergency killed on farm to alleviate pain and suffering. In Europe and the UK, emergency methods are regulated by the European Council Regulation (EC) No. 1099/2009 and The Welfare of Animals at the Time of Killing Regulations (England 2015; Scotland 2012; Wales and Northern Ireland 2014). Cervical dislocation has been reported to be the most widely used method prior to these legislative changes which took place from 1 January 2013. Based on limited scientific evidence and concern for bird welfare, these legislative changes incorporated restrictions based on bird weight for both manual (≤3 kg) and mechanical (≤5 kg) cervical dislocation, and introduced an upper limit in the number of applications for manual cervical dislocation (up to 70 birds per person per day). Furthermore, it removed methods which showed evidence of crushing injury to the neck. However, since legal reform new scientific evidence surrounding the welfare consequences of cervical dislocation and the development of novel methods for killing poultry in small numbers on farm have become available. Whether the UK poultry industry have adopted these novel methods, and whether legislative reform resulted in a change in the use of cervical dislocation in the UK remains unknown. Responses from 215 respondents working across the UK poultry industry were obtained. Despite legal reform, manual cervical dislocation remains the most prevalent method used across the UK for killing poultry on farm (used by 100% of farms) and remains the preferred method amongst respondents (81.9%). The use of alternative methods such as Livetec Nex® and captive bolt guns were available to less than half of individuals and were not frequently employed for broilers and laying hens. Our data suggests there is a lack of a clear alternative to manual cervical dislocation for individuals working with larger species and a lack of gold standard methodology. This risks bird welfare at killing and contributes to inconsistency across the industry. We suggest providing stakeholders with practical alternatives prior to imposing legislative changes and effective knowledge transfer between the scientific community and stakeholders to promote positive change and protect bird welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmine M Clarkson
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom; School for Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Alexandra Paraskevopoulou
- School for Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Jessica E Martin
- School for Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom; The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and The Roslin Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
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4
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Bandara R, Torrey S, Turner P, zur Linden A, Schwean-Lardner K, Widowski T. Efficacy of three different cervical dislocation methods for on-farm killing of layer chicks. Poult Sci 2023; 102:102538. [PMID: 36805394 PMCID: PMC9969316 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.102538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Unfit chicks with low viability are often euthanized in the layer industry. An effective euthanasia protocol is characterized by rapid, irreversible insensibility, followed by prompt death. This study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of three cervical dislocation methods for killing layer chicks (2-3-day-old, avg BW ± SD; 44 ± 3 g, n = 40): manual cervical dislocation (CD), assisted manual cervical dislocation (ACD; the bird's ventral neck is placed on a blunt table edge and the back of the neck pressed firmly), and mechanical cervical dislocation by Koechner Euthanizing Device (KED-model-S). All three killing methods were assessed on anesthetized chicks (intramuscular injections of medetomidine [0.3 mg/kg BW] and ketamine [30 mg/kg BW] were used to induce clinical anesthesia). CD and ACD were also evaluated using conscious chicks to compare the killing methods and to determine the effect of anesthesia on response variables. There were no differences in time to loss of pupillary light reflex, cessation of heartbeat, or duration of gasping between conscious chicks killed with CD and ACD, but these values were all longer for conscious compared to anesthetized chicks. KED resulted in longer latencies to loss of pupillary light reflex, cessation of heartbeat, and duration of gasping. Radiographs revealed that both CD and ACD resulted in cervical luxation, mainly below the C4 vertebra, whereas KED did not cause luxation in any of the 8 chicks tested. Chicks killed by CD and ACD presented more subdural hemorrhage (SDH) at the site of cervical dislocation than those killed by KED. None of the killing methods resulted in brain trauma. Compared to CD and ACD, KED resulted in longer latency to brain death and less anatomical pathology indicating a lower efficacy of KED as an on-farm killing method.
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Affiliation(s)
- R.M.A.S. Bandara
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada,Department of Livestock Production, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, Blihuloya, Sri Lanka
| | - S. Torrey
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - P.V. Turner
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - A. zur Linden
- Department of Clinical Studies, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - K. Schwean-Lardner
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, College of Agriculture and Bioresources, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A8, Canada
| | - T.M. Widowski
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada,Corresponding author:
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Watteyn A, Garmyn A, Ampe B, Jacobs L, Moons CPH, Tuyttens FAM. Comparison of Methods for Individual Killing of Broiler Chickens: A Matter of Animal Welfare and On-Farm Feasibility. FRONTIERS IN ANIMAL SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fanim.2022.892186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The humane killing of individual broiler chickens on-farm requires a minimum of suffering. In this regard, rapid and irreversible loss of consciousness are important determinants. This can be verified by cerebral and spinal reflexes. Also, on-farm feasibility determines whether producers will apply the method. The aim of the study was to compare the effectiveness and animal welfare impact of two different methods for killing individual broilers of varying ages (2, 4, and 6 weeks): manual cervical dislocation (CD) and captive bolt (CB). The evaluation of CD and CB was based on effectiveness and on time to onset (convulsions) or cessation (pain response, pupillary light reflex, convulsions, heartbeat) of non-invasive indicators. In addition, a pilot study was conducted on-farm to assess the feasibility of two alternative methods, CB and nitrogen gasification (N2), and to survey farmers’ opinions on them. The onset of convulsions was almost immediate for both methods in the first study. No differences between CD and CB were observed for the cessation of pain response for chickens at age of 2 weeks (5.0 and 7.5 s, respectively) and 6 weeks (14.0 and 14.1 s, respectively). However, at 4 weeks a longer pain response was measured after CD (11.3 s) than after CB (4.7 s). For the three age categories, the pupillary light reflex disappeared later after CD (54.9 - 80.7 s) compared to CB (8.3 - 13.7 s). The same was observed for cessation of convulsions in 2- and 6-week-old chickens (185.3 and 172.0 s for CD and 79.0 and 82.9 s for CB). This suggests that brain death occurred faster after CB compared to CD. No difference between the methods was found for the cessation of the heartbeat. After the pilot study, the producers preferred N2 over CB in terms of animal-friendliness, time-efficiency, ease of use, and effectiveness. However, both methods were found rather expensive and required some experience. CB and N2 are good killing alternatives to CD due to rapid and irreversible insensibility. However, more information and support for chicken producers will be needed for these to become routine killing methods.
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Clarkson JM, Martin JE, McKeegan DEF. A review of methods used to kill laboratory rodents: issues and opportunities. Lab Anim 2022; 56:419-436. [PMID: 35611553 DOI: 10.1177/00236772221097472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Rodents are the most widely used species for scientific purposes. A critical pre-requisite of their use, based on utilitarian ethical reasoning, is the provision of a humane death when necessary for scientific or welfare grounds. Focussing on the welfare challenges presented by current methods, we critically evaluate the literature, consider emerging methodologies that may have potential for refinement and highlight knowledge gaps for future research. The evidence supports the conclusion that scientists and laboratory personnel should seek to avoid killing laboratory rodents by exposing them to carbon dioxide (CO2), unless exploiting its high-throughput advantage. We suggest that stakeholders and policymakers should advocate for the removal of CO2 from existing guidelines, instead making its use conditionally acceptable with justification for additional rationale for its application. With regards to physical methods such as cervical dislocation, decapitation and concussion, major welfare concerns are based on potential inaccuracy in application and their susceptibility to high failure rates. There is a need for independent quality-controlled training programmes to facilitate optimal success rates and the development of specialist tools to improve outcomes and reliability. Furthermore, we highlight questions surrounding the inconsistent inclusion criteria and acceptability of physical methods in international regulation and/or guidance, demonstrating a lack of cohesion across countries and lack of a comprehensive 'gold standard' methodology. We encourage better review of new data and championing of open access scientific resources to advocate for best practice and enable significant changes to policy and legislation to improve the welfare of laboratory rodents at killing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmine M Clarkson
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, UK
| | - Jessica E Martin
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and The Roslin Institute, The University of Edinburgh, UK
| | - Dorothy E F McKeegan
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, UK
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7
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Baker-Cook B, Torrey S, Widowski TM, Turner PV, Knezacek T, Nicholds J, Schwean-Lardner K. The efficacy of three on-farm euthanasia methods for broiler chickens throughout the production cycle. Br Poult Sci 2021; 62:638-649. [PMID: 33908287 DOI: 10.1080/00071668.2021.1921109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
1. There is a need to humanely kill moribund or injured broiler birds on-farm with no reasonable chance of recovery. Two experiments evaluated the efficacy of three commercially applicable killing methods; manual cervical dislocation (CD), mechanical cervical dislocation with the Koechner Euthanising Device (KED) and a non-penetrative captive bolt device (Zephyr-EXL; ZEXL), at 7, 21 or 35 d of age, on their ability to induce insensibility (unconsciousness and loss of brain stem reflexes) and death.2. Experiment one assessed the damage to the cranial-cervical region resulting from the methods applied to cadavers of cull birds (n = 180) by radiography and gross pathology observation.3. Experiment two evaluated the latency to insensibility and death when cull broiler birds (n = 240) were killed by CD, KED or ZEXL, using behavioural and reflexive indicators. Insensibility and death were measured by the absence of pupillary light, palpebral blink and nictitating membrane reflexes and cessation of rhythmic breathing, cloacal winking and convulsions. Analysis of variance for the main effect of the method was performed to determine the differences.4. In experiment one, only the Zephyr resulted in skull fractures. A higher number of vertebral fractures occurred with KED application compared to CD, at 21 and 35 d.5. In experiment two, indicators of sensibility were absent earliest with the ZEXL (μ < 2 s); then,CD (μ = 28 s) and were longest with KED (μ = 47 s), at 21 and 35 d. Cloacal winking and convulsions ceased earlier after CD (88 s), compared to either KED (124 s) or Zephyr (118 s). Death after a single application occurred 100%, 100% and 98% of time for CD, KED and ZEXL, respectively.6. Overall, all methods were efficacious at inducing insensibility and death. Insensibility occurred earliest with ZEXL, whilst death occurred earliest with CD. KED resulted in the longest time to insensibility and death.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Baker-Cook
- Animal and Poultry Science, University of Saskatchewan College of Agriculture and Bioresources, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - S Torrey
- Campbell Centre for Study of Animal Welfare, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - T M Widowski
- Campbell Centre for Study of Animal Welfare, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - P V Turner
- Dept of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - T Knezacek
- Animal and Poultry Science, University of Saskatchewan College of Agriculture and Bioresources, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - J Nicholds
- Poultry Diagnostics and Research Center, Department of Population Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - K Schwean-Lardner
- Animal and Poultry Science, University of Saskatchewan College of Agriculture and Bioresources, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
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8
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Stiewert A, Archer G. Comparing two captive bolt devices on market age Pekin ducks. J APPL POULTRY RES 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.japr.2021.100162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
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Stiewert AM, Wooming B, Archer GS. Comparing various euthanasia devices and methods on 8 and 12-week-old turkey hens. Poult Sci 2021; 100:101053. [PMID: 33774372 PMCID: PMC8025049 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2021.101053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
On-farm euthanasia of poultry is a necessity for minimizing disease spread and removing sick or injured birds to maintain optimum animal welfare. There are numerous methods that are approved for euthanasia of poultry by organizations like the American Veterinary Medical Association; however, all approved methods are not easily carried out on-farm or as effective as one another. Therefore, the objective of this study was to compare several captive bolt devices (Turkey Euthanasia Device, Zephyr-EXL, Jarvis Stunner, Experimental Crossbow), mechanical cervical dislocation (Broomstick method [BRM] and Koechner Euthanasia Device [KED]), and manual cervical dislocation (MAN) methods on 8 and 12-week-old turkey hens. Each method was assessed for impact on loss of brain stem reflexes, euthanasia success, and torn skin. The cervical dislocation techniques were also analyzed via radiograph for proper dislocation. Furthermore, each device was assessed for physical parameters. Turkeys (n = 1,400) were euthanized on 20 sampling days, 10 sampling days for each age period. All methods resulted in euthanasia of all turkeys in this study. The captive bolt devices all resulted in immediate loss of nictitating membrane and pupillary reflex at both the ages tested. The cervical dislocation methods differed in both nictitating membrane and pupillary reflex cessation at both ages (P < 0.05). The pattern was the same at both ages with the KED device have longer latencies to cessation of both reflexes when compared to the BRM and MAN methods (P < 0.05). Cessation of movement was also generally longer in dislocation methods compared to captive bolt at both ages. However, captive bolt devices resulted in more lacerations of the skin in general. MAN was also found to result in less damage to the vertebrae and proper location of separation than the mechanical methods of dislocation. All methods resulted in effective euthanasia; however, captive bolt methods resulted in immediate loss of brain stem reflexes indicating that they maybe more humane than cervical dislocation methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin M Stiewert
- Department of Poultry Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, USA 77843
| | | | - Gregory S Archer
- Department of Poultry Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, USA 77843.
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10
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Jongman EC, Fisher AD. Euthanasia of laying hens: an overview. ANIMAL PRODUCTION SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1071/an20224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Euthanasia of an animal requires that its death occurs in as humane a manner as possible. There are three key scenarios for euthanasia in the egg industry: the humane destruction of day-old male chicks, euthanasia of individual birds, and the depopulation of flocks for disease control or because conventional transport and slaughter is uneconomic. For day-old chicks, instant mechanical maceration, although conditionally humane, presents a public perception problem. Submerging in CO2 gas is less confronting but is thought to be aversive to animals unless more expensive and harder to manage inert gases are incorporated. Future technologies involving pre-hatching sex determination or sex selection may largely solve the problem when fully developed. For the euthanasia of individual birds within the flock, manual cervical dislocation has been shown to be humane when performed by trained personnel who are willing to perform the procedure. Penetrating and non-penetrating mechanical devices that cause irreversible brain trauma are becoming more available and represent a humane alternative to cervical dislocation when properly placed and maintained. These devices may be less confronting for some staff to use than is cervical dislocation. For whole-flock euthanasia, the overwhelming requirements of disease control and public safety may override considerations of euthanasia. Whole-shed CO2 (or other gas combinations) and foam-based alternatives can be used, but have challenges in commercial settings. Modified atmosphere killing units or low atmospheric stunning systems are alternatives that overcome some of these practical problems, but do require birds to be handled.
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11
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Watteyn A, Jacobs L, Ampe B, Moons CPH, Garmyn A, Tuyttens FAM. Killing individual poultry on-farm-a survey among veterinarians and farmers. Poult Sci 2020; 99:4132-4140. [PMID: 32867956 PMCID: PMC7598116 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2020.05.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
To date, information about reasons to select and kill poultry on-farm and which method veterinarians and poultry producers preferably use is scarce. Little is also known about their knowledge of the legislation regarding on-farm killing methods and of methods alternative to the one(s) they use, as well as their perception of those alternatives. In this study, Flemish poultry veterinarians (n = 13), broiler chicken producers (n = 27), and turkey producers (n = 4) were surveyed on killing methods they currently use in practice and alternative methods, on their opinion about what constitutes an appropriate method for on-farm killing of poultry, and on their reasons for killing. All poultry veterinarians and chicken producers who filled out the survey kill poultry by manual cervical dislocation (CD), whereas some turkey farmers also indicated killing by percussive blow to the head (n = 1) or exsanguination (n = 1). Turkey producers seem to be more inclined not to kill animals with injuries or symptoms of disease as compared to veterinarians or chicken producers, such that moribund turkeys are more likely to remain in the flock. Veterinarians considered the following properties of a killing method important: animal friendliness, applicability inside the stable, a high success rate, and time efficiency. Producers ranked the properties similarly, but for them, ease of performance and cost-efficiency were more important than applicability inside the stable. Producers scored those killing properties rather positively for manual as well as mechanical CD. Veterinarians and chicken producers considered the captive bolt method to be easy to perform, to have a high success rate, to be feasible to perform in the stable, and to be animal-friendly. Turkey producers, however, had doubts about the latter 2 properties. Gas, injection, and electrocution were inferior methods to kill poultry according to producers. In conclusion, manual CD is the most common method for killing broiler chickens and turkeys, and knowledge of, and experience with, alternative methods is very limited, both among veterinarians and producers. Informing them about legislation and training for the use of alternative killing techniques are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anneleen Watteyn
- Animal Sciences, Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Melle, Belgium.
| | - Leonie Jacobs
- Department of Animal & Poultry Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Bart Ampe
- Animal Sciences, Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Melle, Belgium
| | | | - An Garmyn
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Frank A M Tuyttens
- Animal Sciences, Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Melle, Belgium; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
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12
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Nielsen SS, Alvarez J, Bicout DJ, Calistri P, Depner K, Drewe JA, Garin-Bastuji B, Gonzales Rojas JL, Gortázar Schmidt C, Miranda Chueca MÁ, Roberts HC, Sihvonen LH, Spoolder H, Stahl K, Velarde Calvo A, Viltrop A, Winckler C, Candiani D, Fabris C, Van der Stede Y, Michel V. Killing for purposes other than slaughter: poultry. EFSA J 2019; 17:e05850. [PMID: 32626157 PMCID: PMC7008794 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2019.5850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Poultry of different ages may have to be killed on‐farm for purposes other than slaughter (in which slaughtering is defined as being for human consumption) either individually or on a large scale (e.g. because unproductive, for disease control, etc.). The processes of on‐farm killing that were assessed are handling and stunning and/or killing methods (including restraint). The latter were grouped into four categories: electrical methods, modified atmosphere, mechanical methods and lethal injection. In total, 29 hazards were identified and characterised, most of these regard stunning and/or killing. Staff were identified as origin for 26 hazards and 24 hazards were attributed to lack of appropriate skill sets needed to perform tasks or due to fatigue. Specific hazards were identified for day‐old chicks killed via maceration. Corrective and preventive measures were assessed: measures to correct hazards were identified for 13 hazards, and management showed to have a crucial role in prevention. Eight welfare consequences, the birds can be exposed to during on‐farm killing, were identified: not dead, consciousness, heat stress, cold stress, pain, fear, distress and respiratory distress. Welfare consequences and relevant animal‐based measures were described. Outcome tables linking hazards, welfare consequences, animal‐based measures, origins, preventive and corrective measures were developed for each process. Mitigation measures to minimise welfare consequences were also proposed.
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Hernandez E, James F, Torrey S, Widowski T, Schwean-Lardner K, Monteith G, Turner PV. Evaluation of Brain Death in Laying Hens During On-Farm Killing by Cervical Dislocation Methods or Pentobarbital Sodium Injection. Front Vet Sci 2019; 6:297. [PMID: 31552284 PMCID: PMC6733910 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2019.00297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated changes in the electroencephalograph (EEG) power spectrum as well as physiological and behavioral responses to on-farm killing via mechanical cervical dislocation (MCD), manual cervical dislocation (CD) or intravenous pentobarbital sodium administration in lightly anesthetized laying hens, to evaluate the welfare impact of each method. A mixed group of 44 white Leghorn and Smoky Joe laying hens (60 weeks-old) were anesthetized with isoflurane in oxygen and maintained at 1.5–2% isoflurane/O2 until the killing method was applied. Birds were randomly assigned to one of three experimental groups on each trial day. The EEG was recorded bilaterally in a four-electrode montage. After recording a 5-min baseline, the killing method was applied and EEGs and other behavioral and physiological responses, including convulsions, gasping, cessation of body movements and feather erection were recorded for 5 min. Changes in EEG frequency bands (alpha, beta, delta, theta), median frequency (F50), 95% spectral edge frequency (F95), and total power (Ptot) were used to assess the quality of the on-farm killing event. Within 15 s after administration of pentobarbital sodium, there were significant decreases in mean frequency bands, increases in mean F50 and F95, and decreases in Ptot, suggesting brain death. In addition, birds presented a shorter latency to cessation of movement after pentobarbital sodium injection compared to MCD and CD (22 vs. 115 s and 136 s, respectively). There were significant increases in F95 and decreases in Ptot at 120 s after application of CD; and a concomitant decrease in the frequency bands at 135 s and isoelectric EEG at 171 ± 15 s. Changes consistent with brain death after MCD included isoelectric EEG at 207 ± 23 s and a significant decreases in some frequency bands at 300 s post-application. No other significant spectrum frequency changes were observed in the MCD group, suggesting brain death likely occurred near the 5-min endpoint. There was no clear association between behavioral, physiological, and EEG responses within CD and MCD treatments. The data demonstrate that pentobarbital sodium induced a rapid death with minimal behavioral and physiological responses regardless of strain of hens. In comparison, use of CD and MCD resulted in a slow onset of brain death in hens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elein Hernandez
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Fiona James
- Department of Clinical Studies, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Stephanie Torrey
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Tina Widowski
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Karen Schwean-Lardner
- College of Agricultural and Bioresources, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Gabrielle Monteith
- Department of Clinical Studies, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Patricia V Turner
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
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Bandara RMAS, Torrey S, Turner PV, Linden AZ, Bolinder A, Schwean-Lardner K, Widowski TM. Efficacy of a Novel Mechanical Cervical Dislocation Device in Comparison to Manual Cervical Dislocation in Layer Chickens. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:E407. [PMID: 31266199 PMCID: PMC6680881 DOI: 10.3390/ani9070407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The main objective of this study was to assess the efficacy of mechanical cervical dislocation using the Koechner Euthanasia Device Model C (KED) in comparison to manual cervical dislocation in layer chickens. Laying hens and/or roosters in three different age groups (12, 27-29, and 65-70 weeks old) were randomly assigned to one of three experimental groups: manual cervical dislocation in conscious birds (CD), manual cervical dislocation in anesthetized birds (aCD), or mechanical cervical dislocation by KED in anesthetized birds (aMCD). Anesthetized birds received an intramuscular dose of 0.3 mg/kg medetomidine and 30 mg/kg of ketamine to achieve clinical anesthesia. A comparison of CD vs. aCD responses confirmed that the anesthetic plane abolished or reduced clonic convulsions, nictitating membrane reflex, tonic convulsions, and cloacal relaxation. Time to loss of the pupillary light reflex (~123 s), and time to cardiac arrest (~172 s) were longer (p < 0.001) in the birds in the aMCD group than aCD (~71 and ~137 s, respectively). Radiographs revealed that the majority of the birds killed by manual cervical dislocation (CD + aCD) had dislocations between the skull and atlas (C1) or between cervical vertebrae C1-C2. The KED resulted in a majority of dislocations at C2-C3. Birds killed by manual cervical dislocation presented more subdural and parenchymal hemorrhage in the brain stem compared to birds killed by KED. Radiographs indicated the presence of fractures in a few birds killed by either method (CD + aCD versus aMCD). Compared to manual CD, KED resulted in less brain trauma and a longer latency to brain death, indicating a lower efficacy of KED as an on-farm killing method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rathnayaka M A S Bandara
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
- Department of Livestock Production, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, Belihuloya 70140, Sri Lanka
| | - Stephanie Torrey
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Patricia V Turner
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Alex Zur Linden
- Department of Clinical Studies, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Anna Bolinder
- Department of Animal Care Services, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Karen Schwean-Lardner
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, College of Agriculture and Bioresources, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A8, Canada
| | - Tina M Widowski
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada.
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15
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Bandara RMAS, Torrey S, Turner PV, Schwean-Lardner K, Widowski TM. Anatomical Pathology, Behavioral, and Physiological Responses Induced by Application of Non-penetrating Captive Bolt Devices in Layer Chickens. Front Vet Sci 2019; 6:89. [PMID: 30984770 PMCID: PMC6447681 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2019.00089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2018] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
We evaluated three models of non-penetrating captive bolt devices, Zephyr-E, Zephyr- EXL, and Turkey euthanasia device (TED) for time to loss of sensibility and degree of brain damage during euthanasia in four age groups of male and female layer chickens (10–11, 20–21, 30–35, 60–70 weeks respectively). Latencies to onset of insensibility and cardiac arrest were assessed to detect whether killing birds via these devices was humane and effective. Both gross and microscopic pathology evaluations were conducted to score skull and brain trauma post mortem. All three NPCB devices induced loss of breathing, pupillary reflex and nictitating membrane reflex within 5 s after application in most chickens. Latencies to loss of jaw tone and neck muscle tone were longer in 60–70 weeks old roosters (p < 0.05). Younger birds (10–21 week-old) demonstrated the longest time (p < 0.0001) to onset of tonic convulsions, time at last movement, cloacal relaxation and cessation of heart beat. A positive correlation (p < 0.0001) was found for all three devices between time of cardiac arrest and times to onset of tonic convulsions, last movement, and cloacal relaxation. More than 80% of birds had skin lacerations with external bleeding following application of all 3 devices. Device type did not affect the incidence of skull fractures but higher skull fracture scores were noted in 10–11 week-old birds compared to other ages. Regardless of device type and age, microscopic SDH was most apparent in the brain and proximal spinal cord of all birds. In summary, all three devices caused significant trauma to the midbrain and spinal cord. Results demonstrated that all three devices induce rapid insensibility after application and can be used as a single-step method that results in a humane death in all age groups of layer chickens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rathnayaka Mudiyanselage Amila Subhashinie Bandara
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada.,The Campbell Center for the Study of Animal Welfare, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada.,Department of Livestock Production, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, Blihuloya, Sri Lanka
| | - Stephanie Torrey
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada.,The Campbell Center for the Study of Animal Welfare, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Patricia V Turner
- The Campbell Center for the Study of Animal Welfare, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada.,Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Karen Schwean-Lardner
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, College of Agriculture and Bio Resources, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Tina M Widowski
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada.,The Campbell Center for the Study of Animal Welfare, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
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16
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Martin JE, Sandercock DA, Sandilands V, Sparrey J, Baker L, Sparks NHC, McKeegan DEF. Erratum: Martin, J.E., et al. Welfare Risks of Repeated Application of On-Farm Killing Methods for Poultry. Animals 2018, 8, 39. Animals (Basel) 2018; 8:ani8060094. [PMID: 29891799 PMCID: PMC6025026 DOI: 10.3390/ani8060094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The authors wish to make the following correction to their paper[...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica E Martin
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and The Roslin Institute, Easter Bush Campus, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH25 9RG, UK.
| | - Dale A Sandercock
- Animal and Veterinary Science Research Group, Scotland's Rural College (SRUC), West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH16 4SA, UK.
| | - Victoria Sandilands
- Animal and Veterinary Science Research Group, Scotland's Rural College (SRUC), West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH16 4SA, UK.
| | - Julian Sparrey
- Livetec Systems Ltd., Building 52, Wrest Park, Silsoe, Bedford MK45 4HS, UK.
| | - Laurence Baker
- Animal and Veterinary Science Research Group, Scotland's Rural College (SRUC), West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH16 4SA, UK.
| | - Nick H C Sparks
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and The Roslin Institute, Easter Bush Campus, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH25 9RG, UK.
- Animal and Veterinary Science Research Group, Scotland's Rural College (SRUC), West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH16 4SA, UK.
| | - Dorothy E F McKeegan
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary & Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK.
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