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Deeming LE, Beausoleil NJ, Stafford KJ, Webster JR, Cox N, Zobel G. Evaluating the immediate effects of hoof trimming on dairy goat hoof conformation and joint positions. Vet Res Commun 2024; 48:1073-1082. [PMID: 38103118 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-023-10273-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Hoof overgrowth in commercial housed dairy goats is a major health and welfare concern; thus, it is important to better understand hoof trimming, a priority practice which addresses hoof growth. We evaluated the immediate effects of trimming on external conformation, internal joint positions, and hoof wall overgrowth of front and hind hooves. Eighty female goats were enrolled. Pre and post hoof trimming data were collected at 13, 17, 21 and 25 months of age. Overall, before trimming, a high percentage of hooves were scored as overgrown (77.8%). Trimming decreased the percentage of overgrown hooves (17.6%: P < 0.001) and other moderate/severe conformational issues: dipped heels (49.3% vs. 26.7; P < 0.001), misshaped claws (37.0% vs. 17.6%; P < 0.001), splayed claws (73.7% vs. 56.7%; P < 0.001). More hind than front hooves had dipped heels pre-trimming and (91.3% vs. 7.3%; P < 0.001) and post-trimming (52.8% vs. 0.6%; P < 0.001); over half of the hind heels were not restored to an upright position. A greater proportion of toe length was removed from the hind hooves compared to the front (0.50 vs. 0.43, P < 0.001), with the greatest proportion of hoof wall overgrowth removed from the hind hoof medial claw at the 13-month assessment (P < 0.001). Following trimming, distal interphalangeal joint angle decreased more in hind compared to front hooves (11.0° vs. 6.9°; P < 0.001); distal interphalangeal joint height decreased (0.21 cm, P < 0.001), and proximal interphalangeal joint, and heel, angles increased (7.76° and 8.93°, respectively; P < 0.001). Trimming did not restore conformation of all hooves when trimmed every 4 months, suggesting a need to investigate reasons for underlying poor conformation, including trimming frequency.
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Affiliation(s)
- L E Deeming
- AgResearch Ltd. Ruakura Research Centre, Hamilton, 3214, New Zealand
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand
- EpiVets, 565 Mahoe Street, Te Awamutu, 3800, New Zealand
| | - N J Beausoleil
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand
| | - K J Stafford
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand
| | - J R Webster
- AgResearch Ltd. Ruakura Research Centre, Hamilton, 3214, New Zealand
| | - N Cox
- AgResearch Ltd. Ruakura Research Centre, Hamilton, 3214, New Zealand
| | - G Zobel
- AgResearch Ltd. Ruakura Research Centre, Hamilton, 3214, New Zealand.
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Deeming LE, Beausoleil NJ, Stafford KJ, Webster JR, Cox N, Zobel G. Evaluating the long-term conformation and hoof growth effects of starting hoof trimming at 5 months of age in New Zealand dairy goats. J Dairy Sci 2023; 106:1065-1077. [PMID: 36543638 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2022-22321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Hoof overgrowth is associated with poor conformation, an altered weight-bearing surface, and a reduction in the hoof's anatomic and functional integrity. As a result of housing systems that promote hoof overgrowth, hoof trimming is considered a priority in dairy goats. However, there are few data on the effects of the timing of first trimming on hoof conformation and growth rate. The aims of this study were (1) to evaluate the long-term effects of 2 different hoof trimming start times and (2) to investigate the pattern of hoof growth across the first 2 yr of life. Eighty 5-mo-old female Saanen-cross commercially housed dairy goats were allocated randomly to 1 of 2 treatments: (1) early trimmed (trimming beginning at 5 mo old; hooves were trimmed every 4 mo thereafter) and (2) late trimmed (trimming beginning at 13 mo old; hooves were trimmed every 4 mo thereafter). Using a combination of photographs and radiographs, hoof conformation, joint positions, and hoof wall length were assessed before the 13- and 25-mo trimming events. Hoof growth was assessed every 12 wk using caliper measurements. Overall, starting hoof trimming earlier had minor and inconsistent effects. However, detrimental changes in conformation and joint positions occurred between trimming events, particularly in the hind hooves, regardless of trimming treatment. At both assessments, there was a high percentage of overgrown toes and dipped heels, with the hind hooves being more affected compared with the front (overgrown toes at 13 mo, 97.1 vs. 79.1 ± 5.2%; overgrown toes at 25 mo, 91.7 vs. 56.3 ± 6.7%; dipped heels at 13 mo, 98.5 vs. 19.3 ± 5.0%; dipped heels at 25 mo, 88.3 vs. 4.9 ± 4.8%). In addition, at both assessments, the distal interphalangeal joint angle was greater in the hind hooves compared with the front (13 mo, 79.5 vs. 65.2 ± 1.7°; 25 mo, 79.0 vs. 66.7 ± 0.9°), whereas heel angles were less in the hind hooves compared with the front (13 mo, 41.8 vs. 57.1 ± 1.5°; 25 mo, 44.9 vs. 55.9 ± 1.1°). On average, the front hooves grew 4.39 mm/mo and the hind hooves grew 4.20 mm/mo. Early trimming did not have consistent effects on hoof growth rate. Importantly, our results suggest that trimming every 4 mo is not sufficient to prevent hoof overgrowth, the development of poor conformation, and detrimental changes in joint positions, particularly in the hind hooves. Furthermore, the detrimental changes may have masked any long-term treatment effects. Therefore, trimming frequency and age of first trimming should be considered when devising hoof care protocols for dairy goats housed in environments that do not offer opportunities for natural hoof wear.
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Affiliation(s)
- L E Deeming
- AgResearch Ltd., Ruakura Research Centre, Hamilton 3214, New Zealand; School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| | - N J Beausoleil
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| | - K J Stafford
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| | - J R Webster
- AgResearch Ltd., Ruakura Research Centre, Hamilton 3214, New Zealand
| | - N Cox
- AgResearch Ltd., Ruakura Research Centre, Hamilton 3214, New Zealand
| | - G Zobel
- AgResearch Ltd., Ruakura Research Centre, Hamilton 3214, New Zealand.
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Baker SE, Ayers M, Beausoleil NJ, Belmain SR, Berdoy M, Buckle AP, Cagienard C, Cowan D, Fearn-Daglish J, Goddard P, Golledge HDR, Mullineaux E, Sharp T, Simmons A, Schmolz E. An assessment of animal welfare impacts in wild Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus) management. Anim Welf 2022. [DOI: 10.7120/09627286.31.1.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus) are considered one of the most significant vertebrate pests globally, because of their impacts on human and animal health. There are legal and moral obligations to minimise the impacts of wildlife management on animal welfare, yet there are few
data on the relative welfare impacts of rat trapping and baiting methods used in the UK with which to inform management decisions. Two stakeholder workshops were facilitated to assess the relative welfare impacts of six lethal rat management methods using a welfare assessment model. Fifteen
stakeholders including experts in wildlife management, rodent management, rodent biology, animal welfare science, and veterinary science and medicine, participated. The greatest welfare impacts were associated with three baiting methods, anticoagulants, cholecalciferol and non-toxic cellulose
baits (severe to extreme impact for days), and with capture on a glue trap (extreme for hours) with concussive killing (mild to moderate for seconds to minutes); these methods should be considered last resorts from a welfare perspective. Lower impacts were associated with cage trapping (moderate
to severe for hours) with concussive killing (moderate for minutes). The impact of snap trapping was highly variable (no impact to extreme for seconds to minutes). Snap traps should be regulated and tested to identify those that cause rapid unconsciousness; such traps might represent the most
welfare-friendly option assessed for killing rats. Our results can be used to integrate consideration of rat welfare alongside other factors, including cost, efficacy, safety, non-target animal welfare and public acceptability when selecting management methods. We also highlight ways of reducing
welfare impacts and areas where more data are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- SE Baker
- University of Oxford, Department of Zoology, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - M Ayers
- Precision Pest Management Solutions Ltd, Iveson Drive, Leeds LS16 6BG, UK
| | - NJ Beausoleil
- Massey University, Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, School of Veterinary Science, Palmerston North, 4410, New Zealand
| | - SR Belmain
- Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich, Central Avenue, Chatham Maritime, Kent ME4 4TB, UK
| | - M Berdoy
- University of Oxford, Biomedical Services, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - AP Buckle
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Reading, Reading RG6 6AS, UK
| | - C Cagienard
- Pest Solutions, 10 Seaward Place, Glasgow G41 1HH, UK
| | - D Cowan
- Newcastle University, School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle, UK
| | | | | | - HDR Golledge
- Universities Federation for Animal Welfare, The Old School, Brewhouse Hill, Wheathampstead AL4 8AN, UK
| | | | - T Sharp
- Vertebrate Pest Research Unit, NSW Department of Primary Industries, Tocal Agricultural Centre, Paterson, NSW, Australia
| | | | - E Schmolz
- German Environment Agency, Section IV 1.4, Berlin, Germany
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Littlewood KE, Beausoleil NJ, Stafford KJ, Stephens C, Collins T, Quain A, Hazel S, Lloyd JF, Mallia C, Richards L, Wedler NK, Zito S. How decision-making about euthanasia for animals is taught to Australasian veterinary students. Aust Vet J 2021; 99:334-343. [PMID: 34002368 DOI: 10.1111/avj.13077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
This study set out to explore how euthanasia decision-making for animals was taught to students in eight Australasian veterinary schools. A questionnaire-style interview guide was used by a representative at each university to interview educators. Educators were interviewed about their teaching of euthanasia decision-making for four categories of animals: livestock, equine, companion and avian/wildlife. Using thematic analysis, the terms provided by participants to describe how (mode of teaching) and what (specific content) they taught to students were categorised. Information about content was categorised into human-centred factors that influence decision-making, and animal-based indicators used to directly inform decision-making. All eight representatives reported some teaching relevant to euthanasia decision-making at their university for livestock, companion animal and avian/wildlife. One representative reported no such teaching for equid animals at their university. Observation of a euthanasia case was rarely reported as a teaching method. Five universities reported multiple modes of teaching relevant information, while two universities made use of modalities that could be described as opportunistic teaching (e.g., 'Discussion of clinical cases'). Factors taught at most universities included financial considerations, and that it is the owner's decision to make, while animal-based indicators taught included QoL/animal welfare, prognosis and behaviour change. Overall, most universities used a variety of methods to cover relevant material, usually including lectures and several other approaches for all animal types. However, because two universities relied on presentation of clinical cases, not all students at these veterinary schools will be exposed to make, or assist in making, euthanasia decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- K E Littlewood
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Private Bag 11222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand
| | - N J Beausoleil
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Private Bag 11222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand
| | - K J Stafford
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Private Bag 11222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand
| | - C Stephens
- School of Psychology, Massey University, Private Bag 11222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand
| | - T Collins
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Murdoch University, South Street, Murdoch, Western Australia, 6150, Australia
| | - A Quain
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
| | - S Hazel
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, 5005, Australia
| | - Jk F Lloyd
- Discipline of Veterinary Sciences, College of Public Health, Medical & Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, 1 Solander Drive, Townsville, Queensland, 4811, Australia
| | - C Mallia
- School of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Charles Sturt University, PO Box 789, Albury, New South Wales, 2640, Australia
| | - L Richards
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Melbourne, 250 Princes Highway, Werribee, Victoria, 3030, Australia
| | - N K Wedler
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Murdoch University, South Street, Murdoch, Western Australia, 6150, Australia
| | - S Zito
- Animal Welfare Science and Education Department, Royal New Zealand SPCA National Office, 3047 Great North Road, Auckland, 0640, New Zealand
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Kells NJ, Beausoleil NJ, Johnson CB, Chambers JP, O'Connor C, Webster J, Laven R, Cogger N. Indicators of dehydration in healthy 4- to 5-day-old dairy calves deprived of feed and water for 24 hours. J Dairy Sci 2020; 103:11820-11832. [PMID: 33222862 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2020-18743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Our objective was to identify practical indicators of calf dehydration that could be used in an industry context. Eleven healthy 4-d-old commercial dairy calves were fed 2 L of mixed colostrum, then deprived of food and water for 24 h. Total body water was determined in the fed state using the deuterium dilution method. Body weight, along with a range of behavioral and physiological variables, was recorded 1 h after feeding, then at 90-min intervals through to 24 h. Blood samples were collected at every second sampling to assess changes in plasma hemoglobin, hematocrit, and osmolality. Linear mixed-effects models were used to explore associations between hydration status (% body water) and outcome variables. All calves remained bright and alert with good suckling reflexes throughout the 24-h period. After 24 h, total body water had decreased by an average of 8.4% (standard error 1.18), consistent with mild to moderate dehydration. Skin tent return time, capillary refill time, and detectable enophthalmos were associated with hydration status. Calves with skin tent return times of 3 s or longer were 4.4 percentage points less hydrated than those with return times of less than 3 s. Similarly, a capillary refill time of 3 s or longer was associated with a 4.3 percentage point reduction in hydration compared with refill times of less than 3 s. Calves with detectable enophthalmos (≥1 mm) were 3.5 percentage points less hydrated than those without enophthalmos. The skin tent, capillary refill, and enophthalmos tests are all relatively simple to perform and, although requiring the calf to be briefly restrained, can easily be performed by a single operator. The outcome of these tests was relatively consistent, in that calves above the threshold in any test were 3.5 to 4.5% less hydrated than calves below the threshold. As such, these tests may be of practical utility to identify calves with mild to moderate dehydration in an industry setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- N J Kells
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand.
| | - N J Beausoleil
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| | - C B Johnson
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| | - J P Chambers
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| | - C O'Connor
- AgResearch, Ruakura Research Centre, Private Bag 3123, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - J Webster
- AgResearch, Ruakura Research Centre, Private Bag 3123, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - R Laven
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| | - N Cogger
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
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Littlewood KE, Beausoleil NJ, Stafford KJ, Stephens C, Collins T, Fawcett A, Hazel S, Lloyd J, Mallia C, Richards L, Wedler NK, Zito S. How management of grief associated with ending the life of an animal is taught to Australasian veterinary students. Aust Vet J 2020; 98:356-363. [PMID: 32458445 DOI: 10.1111/avj.12960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Veterinarians have an important role in supporting and understanding their clients' grief. Veterinary schools have a duty to teach students how best to manage grief - both that of the students/future veterinarians and the clients. This study explores how grief management, associated with ending the life of an animal, was taught to students in eight Australasian veterinary schools. METHODS A questionnaire-style interview guide was used by a representative at each university to conduct structured interviews with educators in a snowball sampling approach. Educators were interviewed about the teaching of grief management for four categories of animals: livestock, equine, companion and avian/wildlife. The terms used by participants to describe what they taught were grouped into common themes. Teaching was defined by individual participants and included structured and unstructured approaches. The stage in the degree (preclinical or clinical years) that grief management was taught in the veterinary curriculum and by whom (e.g. clinicians or psychologists) is also described. RESULTS Grief management was taught more in preclinical than clinical years. However, due to how grief was characterised, much of this teaching was general 'nonspecific' teaching that included all categories of animals. Client grief was taught more generically, whereas, grief of veterinarians was taught using specific examples given by clinicians. CONCLUSION A more robust end-of-life (EoL) management curriculum that includes all aspects of grief management is likely to increase job satisfaction, client happiness and professional satisfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- K E Littlewood
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand
| | - N J Beausoleil
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand
| | - K J Stafford
- Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand
| | - C Stephens
- School of Psychology, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand
| | - T Collins
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Murdoch University, South Street, Murdoch, Western Australia, 6150, Australia
| | - A Fawcett
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
| | - S Hazel
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, 5005, Australia
| | - Jkf Lloyd
- Discipline of Veterinary Sciences, College of Public Health, Medical & Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, 1 Solander Drive, Townsville, Queensland, 4811, Australia
| | - C Mallia
- School of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Charles Sturt University, PO Box 789, Albury, New South Wales, 2640, Australia
| | - L Richards
- School of Veterinary Science, University of Melbourne, 250 Princes Highway, Werribee, Victoria, 3030, Australia
| | - N K Wedler
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Murdoch University, South Street, Murdoch, Western Australia, 6150, Australia
| | - S Zito
- Animal Welfare Science and Education Department, Royal New Zealand SPCA National Office, 3047 Great North Road, Auckland, 0640, New Zealand
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Kells NJ, Beausoleil NJ, Sutherland MA, Johnson CB. Post-natal development of EEG responses to noxious stimulation in pigs (Sus scrofa) aged 1–15 days. Anim Welf 2019. [DOI: 10.7120/09627286.28.3.317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
This study examined electroencephalographic (EEG) indices of acute nociception in pigs (Sus scrofa) aged 1, 5, 7, 10, 12 and 15 days, post-natal. Ten pigs per age were anaesthetised with halothane in oxygen and maintained at a light plane of anaesthesia. EEG was recorded bilaterally
using a five-electrode montage. Following a 10-min baseline period, tails were docked using side-cutter pliers and recording continued for a further 5 min. Changes in the median frequency (F50), 95% spectral edge frequency (F95) and total power (PTOT) of the EEG were used to assess
nociception. Tail-docking at one day of age induced no significant changes in the EEG spectrum. A typical nociceptive response, characterised by an increase in F50 and decrease in PTOT, was evident at ten days of age, with five and seven day old pigs exhibiting responses in either
F50 or PTOT only. Pooling of data into ≤ 7 days of age and > 7 days of age revealed F50 was higher overall in the older group. Whilst PTOT decreased after docking in both groups, this response was larger and more prolonged in the older group. F95 increased after
docking in the older pigs only. Overall, these data provide evidence of an increase in cortical responsiveness to noxious stimulation with increasing post-natal age, suggesting there may be qualitative differences in pain perception between age groups. Further, the data provide some support
for current recommendations that tail-docking and other painful husbandry procedures be performed within seven days of birth in order to minimise their impact on animal welfare.
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Kells NJ, Beausoleil NJ, Sutherland MA, Morrison RM, Johnson CB. Electroencephalographic assessment of oral meloxicam, topical anaesthetic cream and cautery iron for mitigating acute pain in pigs (Sus scrofa) undergoing tail docking. Vet Anaesth Analg 2017; 44:1166-1174. [PMID: 29037798 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaa.2017.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2016] [Revised: 12/26/2016] [Accepted: 02/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficacy of oral meloxicam, topical anaesthetic cream and cautery iron in mitigating acute nociceptive responses of pigs to tail docking. STUDY DESIGN A prospective, randomized, controlled experimental study. ANIMALS A total of 40 healthy Large WhitexLandrace pigs aged 21±1 days, weighing 6.1±0.9 kg. METHODS Pigs were randomly assigned to one of four treatments (n=10 per treatment): CONTROL: docked using clippers without analgesia; MEL: docked using clippers after administration of oral meloxicam; EMLA: docked using clippers after application of topical anaesthetic cream; and CAUT: docked using a cautery iron without analgesia. Anaesthesia was induced and maintained with halothane in oxygen. Following induction, end-tidal halothane was stabilized at 0.95-1.05% and electroencephalograph (EEG) recording commenced. After 5 minutes of baseline data collection, tail docking was performed and recording continued for a further 10 minutes. The EEG summary variables median frequency (F50), 95% spectral edge frequency (F95) and total power (PTOT) were calculated for the baseline period and for consecutive 30-second intervals following docking. RESULTS Following docking, F50 increased and PTOT decreased significantly in CONTROL and MEL pigs. EMLA pigs exhibited no change in any variable, whilst CAUT pigs exhibited a reduction in PTOT but no change in F50. F50 was higher in control pigs than in EMLA pigs 30-60 seconds after docking (p≤0.01). PTOT was lower in CONTROL than in EMLA pigs 30-90 seconds after docking (p<0.03) and in CAUT pigs 60 seconds after docking (p=0.01). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Prior application of EMLA cream abolished EEG indicators of nociception in pigs docked using clippers. Docking using a cautery iron without analgesia ameliorated EEG indicators of nociception, relative to using clippers without analgesia. Prior administration of EMLA cream or the use of cautery instead of clippers may reduce the acute pain experienced by pigs undergoing tail docking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikki J Kells
- Institute of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.
| | - N J Beausoleil
- Institute of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - M A Sutherland
- AgResearch Ltd, Ruakura Research Centre, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - R M Morrison
- Rivalea Australia, Corowa, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Craig B Johnson
- Institute of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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Guesgen MJ, Beausoleil NJ, Leach M, Minot EO, Stewart M, Stafford KJ. Coding and quantification of a facial expression for pain in lambs. Behav Processes 2016; 132:49-56. [PMID: 27693533 DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2016.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2016] [Revised: 07/05/2016] [Accepted: 09/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Facial expressions are routinely used to assess pain in humans, particularly those who are non-verbal. Recently, there has been an interest in developing coding systems for facial grimacing in non-human animals, such as rodents, rabbits, horses and sheep. The aims of this preliminary study were to: 1. Qualitatively identify facial feature changes in lambs experiencing pain as a result of tail-docking and compile these changes to create a Lamb Grimace Scale (LGS); 2. Determine whether human observers can use the LGS to differentiate tail-docked lambs from control lambs and differentiate lambs before and after docking; 3. Determine whether changes in facial action units of the LGS can be objectively quantified in lambs before and after docking; 4. Evaluate effects of restraint of lambs on observers' perceptions of pain using the LGS and on quantitative measures of facial action units. By comparing images of lambs before (no pain) and after (pain) tail-docking, the LGS was devised in consultation with scientists experienced in assessing facial expression in other species. The LGS consists of five facial action units: Orbital Tightening, Mouth Features, Nose Features, Cheek Flattening and Ear Posture. The aims of the study were addressed in two experiments. In Experiment I, still images of the faces of restrained lambs were taken from video footage before and after tail-docking (n=4) or sham tail-docking (n=3). These images were scored by a group of five naïve human observers using the LGS. Because lambs were restrained for the duration of the experiment, Ear Posture was not scored. The scores for the images were averaged to provide one value per feature per period and then scores for the four LGS action units were averaged to give one LGS score per lamb per period. In Experiment II, still images of the faces nine lambs were taken before and after tail-docking. Stills were taken when lambs were restrained and unrestrained in each period. A different group of five human observers scored the images from Experiment II. Changes in facial action units were also quantified objectively by a researcher using image measurement software. In both experiments LGS scores were analyzed using a linear MIXED model to evaluate the effects of tail docking on observers' perception of facial expression changes. Kendall's Index of Concordance was used to measure reliability among observers. In Experiment I, human observers were able to use the LGS to differentiate docked lambs from control lambs. LGS scores significantly increased from before to after treatment in docked lambs but not control lambs. In Experiment II there was a significant increase in LGS scores after docking. This was coupled with changes in other validated indicators of pain after docking in the form of pain-related behaviour. Only two components, Mouth Features and Orbital Tightening, showed significant quantitative changes after docking. The direction of these changes agree with the description of these facial action units in the LGS. Restraint affected people's perceptions of pain as well as quantitative measures of LGS components. Freely moving lambs were scored lower using the LGS over both periods and had a significantly smaller eye aperture and smaller nose and ear angles than when they were held. Agreement among observers for LGS scores were fair overall (Experiment I: W=0.60; Experiment II: W=0.66). This preliminary study demonstrates changes in lamb facial expression associated with pain. The results of these experiments should be interpreted with caution due to low lamb numbers.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Guesgen
- Institute of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.
| | - N J Beausoleil
- Institute of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - M Leach
- School of Agriculture, Food & Rural Development, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - E O Minot
- Institute of Agriculture and Environment, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - M Stewart
- InterAg, Ruakura Research Centre, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - K J Stafford
- Institute of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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Abstract
Breathlessness is a negative affective experience relating to respiration, the animal welfare significance of which has largely been underestimated in the veterinary and animal welfare sciences. In this review, we draw attention to the negative impact that breathlessness can have on the welfare of individual animals and to the wide range of situations in which mammals may experience breathlessness. At least three qualitatively distinct sensations of breathlessness are recognised in human medicine--respiratory effort, air hunger and chest tightness--and each of these reflects comparison by cerebral cortical processing of some combination of heightened ventilatory drive and/or impaired respiratory function. Each one occurs in a variety of pathological conditions and other situations, and more than one may be experienced simultaneously or in succession. However, the three qualities vary in terms of their unpleasantness, with air hunger reported to be the most unpleasant. We emphasise the important interplay among various primary stimuli to breathlessness and other physiological and pathophysiological conditions, as well as animal management practices. For example, asphyxia/drowning of healthy mammals or killing those with respiratory disease using gases containing high carbon dioxide tensions is likely to lead to severe air hunger, while brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome in modern dog and cat breeds increases respiratory effort at rest and likely leads to air hunger during exertion. Using this information as a guide, we encourage animal welfare scientists, veterinarians, laboratory scientists, regulatory bodies and others involved in evaluations of animal welfare to consider whether or not breathlessness contributes to any compromise they may observe or wish to avoid or mitigate.
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Affiliation(s)
- N J Beausoleil
- a Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, Institute of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences , Massey University , Private Bag 11222, Palmerston North , 4442 , New Zealand
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Abstract
Many pest control activities have the potential to impact negatively on the welfare of animals, and animal welfare is an important consideration in the development, implementation and evaluation of ethically defensible vertebrate pest control. Thus, reliable and accurate methods for assessing welfare impacts are required. The Five Domains model provides a systematic method for identifying potential or actual welfare impacts associated with an event or situation in four physical or functional domains (nutrition, environment, health or functional status, behaviour) and one mental domain (overall mental or affective state). Here we evaluate the advantages and limitations of the Five Domains model for this purpose and illustrate them using specific examples from a recent assessment of the welfare impacts of poisons used to lethally control possums in New Zealand. The model has a number of advantages which include the following: the systematic identification of a wide range of impacts associated with a variety of control tools; the production of relative rankings of tools in terms of their welfare impacts; the easy incorporation of new information into assessments; and the highlighting of additional information needed. For example, a recent analysis of sodium fluoroacetate (1080) poisoning in possums revealed the need for more information on the period from the onset of clinical signs to the point at which consciousness is lost, as well as on the level of consciousness during or after the occurrence of muscle spasms and seizures. The model is also valuable because it clearly separates physical or functional and affective impacts, encourages more comprehensive consideration of negative affective experiences than has occurred in the past, and allows development and evaluation of targeted mitigation strategies. Caution must be used in interpreting and applying the outputs of the model, most importantly because relative rankings or grades are fundamentally qualitative in nature. Certain domains are more useful for evaluating impacts associated with slower/longer-acting tools than for faster-acting methods, and it may be easier to identify impacts in some domains than others. Overall, we conclude that the Five Domains model advances evaluation of the animal welfare impacts of vertebrate pest control methods, provided users are cognisant of its limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- N J Beausoleil
- a Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre , IVABS, Massey University , Private Bag 11222, Palmerston North 4442 , New Zealand
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Littin K, Fisher P, Beausoleil NJ, Sharp T. Welfare aspects of vertebrate pest control and culling: ranking control techniques for humaneness. REV SCI TECH OIE 2014; 33:281-9. [PMID: 25000801 DOI: 10.20506/rst.33.1.2281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The management of vertebrate pests depends on the use of traps, pesticides, repellents and other methods, each of which can cause varying levels of pain and other negative experiences to animals. Vertebrate pest control is essential for managing the impacts of unwanted or over-abundant animals on human and animal health, ecological balance and economic interests. As the need for this management is unlikely to diminish over time, a framework has been developed for assessing the humaneness of each technique by considering their negative impacts on animal welfare so that these can be included in decision-making about the selection of techniques for a specific control operation. This information can also support evidence-based regulations directed at managing such animal welfare impacts. In this paper, the authors discuss this assessment framework, briefly review two assessments conducted using the framework and discuss ways in which Competent Authorities and others can use it and other means to improve animal welfare in vertebrate pest management.
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Farnworth MJ, Adams NJ, Seksel K, Waran NK, Beausoleil NJ, Stafford KJ. Veterinary attitudes towards pre-pubertal gonadectomy of cats: a comparison of samples from New Zealand, Australia and the United Kingdom. N Z Vet J 2012; 61:226-33. [PMID: 23227915 DOI: 10.1080/00480169.2012.738591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
AIM To compare the attitudes and practices of a sample of veterinarians in New Zealand, Australia and the United Kingdom (UK) towards pre-pubertal gonadectomy of cats. METHODS Respondents' demographics were gathered using an electronic questionnaire distributed via professional veterinary associations in the target countries, as were minimum age at gonadectomy and typical age of puberty. Desirability of prepubertal gonadectomy was gauged using three response categories ('yes', 'no' or 'sometimes'), respondents were then able to justify the response given. Two-way Analyses of Variance (ANOVA) followed by post hoc Tukey HSD tests were used to test whether there were differences in minimum ages for gonadectomy within and between countries and between providers and non-providers of services to pounds (or animal welfare centres). Views on the desirability of prepubertal gonadectomy relative to demographics were explored using a Likelihood Ratio Test. RESULTS The survey received 717 responses. Most respondents believed pre-pubertal gonadectomy was either entirely or 'sometimes' desirable (556/621), few thought it was undesirable (65/621). Minimum age at gonadectomy was significantly affected by country surveyed and provision or non-provision of services for pounds. Post hoc Tukey HSD analysis indicated the mean age of both spaying and castration (4.3 months) in the UK was significantly different from both Australia (spaying: 3.4 months, castration: 3.2 months) and New Zealand (spaying: 3.4 months, castration: 3.2 months) (all p<0.001). Mean ages at spaying and castration were also significantly different (p= 0.008; p= 0.019, respectively) for non-providers (spaying: 3.9 months, castration: 3.8 months) of services to pounds when compared to providers (spaying and castration: both 3.6 months). Likelihood Ratio Tests indicated significant effects amongst countries and between genders relative to the desirability of pre- pubertal gonadectomy. Respondents from the UK were more likely to answer 'no' (p = 0.004) or 'sometimes' (p = 0.050) as compared to those from New Zealand or Australia. Females were more likely to respond with 'sometimes' as opposed to 'yes' than males. Reasons for considering pre-pubertal gonadectomy desirable or sometimes desirable focussed on reducing unwanted pregnancies and improving population control, as well as improving rates of adoption, owner compliance and cat behaviour and health. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE In general, pre-pubertal gonadectomy is considered a desirable procedure by those practitioners that responded to the survey. However age at which any such procedure occurs differs depending upon a number of factors. Differences among countries may relate to the specific veterinary association's guidelines or possibly differences in social discourse which affect perception of cats. There is substantial overlap between the reported minimum age of gonadectomy and the age at which cats can enter early puberty, allowing a window for unintentional pregnancy when pre-pubertal gonadectomy does not occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Farnworth
- Department of Natural Sciences, Unitec Institute of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand.
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Beausoleil N, Monetta L, Leblanc B, Joanette Y. Unconstrained oral naming abilities of right-hemisphere damaged individuals: A qualitative and time-course analysis. Clin Linguist Phon 2001; 15:73-77. [PMID: 21269102 DOI: 10.3109/02699200109167634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- N Beausoleil
- Centre de recherche, Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal
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Abstract
One of the major unanswered questions regarding the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in foods is how many cells must be ingested in order to cause illness. To answer this question, studies were undertaken by using Macaca fascicularis (cynomolgus monkey) as an animal model. Healthy nonhuman primates were dosed with various concentrations of L. monocytogenes suspended in sterile whole milk. Final concentrations of 10(5), 10(7), and 10(9) total cells of the organism were used; a control was also included. Blood samples, as well as fecal and nasal specimens, were taken at various time intervals. Only animals that received 10(9) cells of L. monocytogenes became noticeably ill, with symptoms of septicemia, irritability, loss of appetite, and occasional diarrhea. Monkeys that received 10(7) and 10(9) cells shed L. monocytogenes in the feces for approximately 21 days. In monkeys that received the dose of 10(9) cells, severe lymphopenia and neutrophilia occurred within 48 h. In a separate trial, monkeys received Maalox to reduce the gastric acidity of the stomach. However, no substantial differences were observed between Maalox-treated and control monkeys.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Farber
- Health Protection Branch, Health and Welfare Canada, Ottawa, Ontario
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