Animals

Editorial

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2 pages, 154 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

New Year Special Issue, Animals in 2023

by Clive J. C. Phillips

Animals 2023, 13(1), 179; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13010179 - 3 Jan 2023

Viewed by 2037

Abstract

The management of animals on our planet is being scrutinised as never before [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animals in 2023)

Research

Jump to: Editorial, Review, Other

20 pages, 1299 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Intestinal Microbiome in Dogs with Chronic Hepatobiliary Disease: Can We Talk about the Gut–Liver Axis?

by Verena Habermaass, Daniela Olivero, Eleonora Gori, Chiara Mariti, Erika Longhi and Veronica Marchetti

Animals 2023, 13(20), 3174; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13203174 - 11 Oct 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1848

Abstract

The gut–liver axis represents a current topic in human medicine. Extensive research investigates the gut microbiome (GM) modifications in relation to various kinds of chronic hepatobiliary diseases (CHD), with many mechanisms and therapeutical implications recognized. Those aspects in veterinary medicine are still quite [...] Read more.

The gut–liver axis represents a current topic in human medicine. Extensive research investigates the gut microbiome (GM) modifications in relation to various kinds of chronic hepatobiliary diseases (CHD), with many mechanisms and therapeutical implications recognized. Those aspects in veterinary medicine are still quite unexplored. The aim of the present study was to evaluate GM in dogs diagnosed with CD. Comparison among CHD dogs were made considering some clinical and biochemical variables (lipemia and alanine–aminotransferase activities), presence of cholestasis or endocrine disorders, diet). Sixty-five dogs were prospectively enrolled with clinical and hematobiochemical evaluation and 16S-RNA GM sequencing assessed. Dogs that received antibiotics and/or pre/pro/symbiotics administration were excluded. Deeper GM alteration was observed between dogs with or without ultrasonographic and biochemical cholestatic CHD. Cholestasis was associated with a decrease in several bacterial taxa, including Clostridium hiranonis, Fusobacterium, Megamonas, Ruminococcus faecis, Turicibacter, and higher levels of Escherichia/Shigella and Serratia. Thus, the alteration in bile flow and composition, typical of cholestasis, may directly affect the local intestinal microbial environment. For the management of dogs with CHD and especially cholestatic CHD, clinicians should be aware that gut–liver interaction may lead to dysbiosis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animals in 2023)

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18 pages, 1492 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genomic Prediction and Genome-Wide Association Study for Boar Taint Compounds

by Sara Faggion, Elena Boschi, Renata Veroneze, Paolo Carnier and Valentina Bonfatti

Animals 2023, 13(15), 2450; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13152450 - 28 Jul 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1561

Abstract

With a perspective future ban on surgical castration in Europe, selecting pigs with reduced ability to accumulate boar taint (BT) compounds (androstenone, indole, skatole) in their tissues seems a promising strategy. BT compound concentrations were quantified in the adipose tissue of 1075 boars [...] Read more.

With a perspective future ban on surgical castration in Europe, selecting pigs with reduced ability to accumulate boar taint (BT) compounds (androstenone, indole, skatole) in their tissues seems a promising strategy. BT compound concentrations were quantified in the adipose tissue of 1075 boars genotyped at 29,844 SNPs. Traditional and SNP-based breeding values were estimated using pedigree-based BLUP (PBLUP) and genomic BLUP (GBLUP), respectively. Heritabilities for BT compounds were moderate (0.30–0.52). The accuracies of GBLUP and PBLUP were significantly different for androstenone (0.58 and 0.36, respectively), but comparable for indole and skatole (~0.43 and ~0.47, respectively). Several SNP windows, each explaining a small percentage of the variance of BT compound concentrations, were identified in a genome-wide association study (GWAS). A total of 18 candidate genes previously associated with BT (MX1), reproduction traits (TCF21, NME5, PTGFR, KCNQ1, UMODL1), and fat metabolism (CTSD, SYT8, TNNI2, CD81, EGR1, GIPC2, MIGA1, NEGR1, CCSER1, MTMR2, LPL, ERFE) were identified in the post-GWAS analysis. The large number of genes related to fat metabolism might be explained by the relationship between sexual steroid levels and fat deposition and be partially ascribed to the pig line investigated, which is selected for ham quality and not for lean growth. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animals in 2023)

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12 pages, 286 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genetic Correlations between Boar Taint Compound Concentrations in Fat of Purebred Boars and Production and Ham Quality Traits in Crossbred Heavy Pigs

by Sara Faggion, Paolo Carnier and Valentina Bonfatti

Animals 2023, 13(15), 2445; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13152445 - 28 Jul 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 979

Abstract

Selecting pigs with reduced ability to accumulate boar taint (BT) compounds in their tissues is an alternative to male surgical castration. As the majority of slaughter pigs are crossbred, before selecting against BT in purebreds, it is essential to consider possible impacts on [...] Read more.

Selecting pigs with reduced ability to accumulate boar taint (BT) compounds in their tissues is an alternative to male surgical castration. As the majority of slaughter pigs are crossbred, before selecting against BT in purebreds, it is essential to consider possible impacts on commercial traits in crossbreds. This study estimated the genetic correlations between BT compound levels measured in 1115 purebred pigs and carcass and ham quality traits collected in 26,577 crossbred Italian heavy pigs. Genetic correlations were estimated in bivariate Bayesian analyses including one BT trait and one production or ham quality trait at a time. Heritability of androstenone, skatole, and indole was 0.41, 0.49, and 0.37, respectively. A moderate negative correlation between skatole and carcass yield (−0.40), and between all BT compounds and backfat (from −0.26 to −0.55) was observed. Conversely, positive correlations (from 0.11 to 0.54) were found between skatole and ham fat thickness traits. Correlations between BT compounds and iodine number ranged from −0.07 (for androstenone) to −0.64 (for skatole), whereas those with PUFA ranged from −0.13 (for indole) to −0.33 (for skatole). Hence, reducing BT could decrease ham fat thickness and increase unsaturated fatty acids, with potential negative impacts on product quality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animals in 2023)

13 pages, 464 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Animal Welfare Science: Why and for Whom?

by Alessandra Akemi Hashimoto Fragoso, Karynn Capilé, Cesar Augusto Taconeli, Gabrielle Cristine de Almeida, Paula Pimpão de Freitas and Carla Forte Maiolino Molento

Animals 2023, 13(11), 1833; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13111833 - 1 Jun 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3245

Abstract

There are, in the literature, distinct ways to approach animal welfare. The objective of this work was to study the value attributed to farm animals in the scientific papers published in animal welfare and animal production journals at three different points in time, [...] Read more.

There are, in the literature, distinct ways to approach animal welfare. The objective of this work was to study the value attributed to farm animals in the scientific papers published in animal welfare and animal production journals at three different points in time, separated by a decade each. The first ten papers mentioning “animal welfare” or “animal well-being” in their objectives or hypotheses from each journal and each focus year were selected. The 180 papers were blindly scored by five assessors between 1 and 10, according to the degree of intrinsic value attributed to animals. The overall mean score and standard deviation were 5.60 ± 2.49, with 6.46 ± 2.29 and 4.74 ± 2.40 for AW and AP journals, respectively, and 5.37 ± 2.44, 5.68 ± 2.52 and 5.75 ± 2.41 for the focus years of 2000, 2010 and 2020, respectively. There was an interaction between focus year and publication area: papers from AW journals scored better over time, in contrast with papers from AP journals, for which scores remained similar over decades. The inter-assessor agreement is moderate, which may reflect the subject complexity, as the language used in the papers studied was ambiguous in relation to why and for whom it is performed. The low overall mean score evidenced that the animal welfare scientific publications are, on average, not prioritizing the interests of the animals. Thus, our results evidenced the presence of animal welfarism in animal welfare science, a problem that seems not to be intrinsic to animal welfare science itself, but rather to the way research is frequently conceived, conducted, interpreted, summarized and applied. Therefore, it seems urgent to further study the motivation for animal welfare research. The statement of the main justification for animal welfare papers, with an explicit declaration of the motivational priorities that constitute each scientific animal welfare study, may be an interesting recommendation for the improvement of animal welfare science. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animals in 2023)

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11 pages, 308 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Serological Prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum, and Sarcoptes scabiei var. suis in Wild Boars (Sus scrofa) Hunted in a Highly Anthropized Area in Italy

by Luca Villa, Carolina Allievi, Alessia Libera Gazzonis, Giordano Ventura, Matteo Gradassi, Sergio Aurelio Zanzani and Maria Teresa Manfredi

Animals 2023, 13(11), 1730; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13111730 - 23 May 2023

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1632

Abstract

Due to the increasing expansion into urban and rural areas, wild boars represent a potential source of infection with zoonotic and animal-specific parasites for both humans and animals. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the serological prevalence to Toxoplasma gondii [...] Read more.

Due to the increasing expansion into urban and rural areas, wild boars represent a potential source of infection with zoonotic and animal-specific parasites for both humans and animals. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the serological prevalence to Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum, and Sarcoptes scabiei var. suis in blood samples from wild boars (Sus scrofa) hunted in an anthropized area in Italy. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) tests were used to detect antibodies anti-T. gondii and anti-S. scabiei and an immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT) for antibodies anti-N. caninum. 81 out of 128 wild boars (P = 63.3%) resulted positive for at least one of the three parasites. 68 of them were seropositive to T. gondii (P = 53.1%) and 14 to N. caninum (P = 10.9%). 9 wild boars resulted seropositive to S. scabiei var. suis (P = 7.0%). Sampling season was the only significant risk factor related to S. scabiei var. suis seroprevalence (OR = 7.8). The high occurrence of T. gondii supports the role of this species as a source of infection for other animals and humans. Furthermore, the serological prevalence of N. caninum and S. scabiei var. suis in wild boars from the study area characterized by the presence of numerous dairy cattle and pig farms is relevant to demonstrate its suitability for the circulation of these parasites both in domestic and wild species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animals in 2023)

15 pages, 278 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Experiences of Volunteer Assistance Dog Puppy Raisers from the Same Program at Two Australian University Campuses

by Sam Morwood, Dac Mai, Pauleen C. Bennett, Pree Benton and Tiffani J. Howell

Animals 2023, 13(9), 1482; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13091482 - 27 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1631

Abstract

Assistance dogs are beneficial; however, accessing one can be challenging due to the time, cost, and high failure rates associated with training. A major factor contributing to a high failure rate appears to be the competency of volunteer puppy raisers (PRs), with returning [...] Read more.

Assistance dogs are beneficial; however, accessing one can be challenging due to the time, cost, and high failure rates associated with training. A major factor contributing to a high failure rate appears to be the competency of volunteer puppy raisers (PRs), with returning PRs typically more effective than first-time PRs. However, there remains a gap in the literature dedicated to examining PRs’ experiences and how they are affected by the raising programs. This study analysed two groups of PRs (N = 16) from the same university-based program in different Australian regions (i.e., one regional and one suburban). Semi-structured interviews were conducted and analysed both inductively and deductively. The inductive approach identified four major themes that helped to understand the PRs experiences throughout the program: expectations as a PR, organisational and environmental support and suitability, the intensity of PR workload, and practical support. The deductive analysis identified four functions of volunteerism relevant to PRs’ motivations: altruism (values), egoism (enhancement), interacting with others (social), and learning new skills (understanding). Overall, the results obtained from the two groups were consistent with past findings suggesting the benefits of organisational and practical support. These findings further develop our understanding of how to enhance puppy-raising experiences. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animals in 2023)

16 pages, 4772 KiB

Open AccessArticle

GLAD Scale for Ranking Welfare of Horses on Arrival after Transport to Slaughterhouses

by Barbara Padalino, Beatrice Benedetti, Martina Felici and Dominique Joseph Bicout

Animals 2023, 13(9), 1465; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13091465 - 25 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1716

Abstract

To date, there is no official method for measuring horse welfare after transport. This study aimed to develop a scale to classify horses into four categories: good shape; light affected; affected; down (GLAD) based on their welfare impairment measured at unloading. To this [...] Read more.

To date, there is no official method for measuring horse welfare after transport. This study aimed to develop a scale to classify horses into four categories: good shape; light affected; affected; down (GLAD) based on their welfare impairment measured at unloading. To this end, 15 animal-based measures (ABMs), previously recorded from 1019 horses, were scored. Weight and severity scores provided by welfare experts, alongside the number of welfare principles highlighted by the ABM, were assigned to each ABM. The welfare impairment (S) of each horse was then calculated as the weighted sum of the severity scores of the 15 ABMs. Three thresholds were also set to define the four GLAD categories; the ABM “down” (i.e., horses unable to stand and walk on arrival, also considered by the law as the indicator of the worst welfare) was used as the higher threshold, S_down, (category D); the intermediate threshold, S₂, was defined by the ABM “injuries”, assumed to represent highly impaired welfare (category A); the threshold, S₁, was defined assuming that significant welfare impairment starts from 20% of S₂ (L category). Horses with an S value below S₁ were considered physically and mentally fit (G category). Out of 1019, 43% of horses fell into category G, 48% into L, 9% into A, and 0.3% into D. Our scale could be useful for veterinarians to decide whether a horse can be slaughtered immediately (G), needs rest (L), needs attention (A), or euthanasia (D), but further validation is needed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animals in 2023)

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14 pages, 837 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Pendular Is Human Brachiation? When Form Does Not Follow Function

by Melody W. Young, James Q. Virga, Stratos J. Kantounis, Samantha K. Lynch, Noah D. Chernik, Jon A. Gustafson, Matthew J. Cannata, Nicholas D. Flaim and Michael C. Granatosky

Animals 2023, 13(9), 1438; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13091438 - 22 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3560

Abstract

Brachiation is a form of suspensory locomotion observed only in Primates. The non-human hominoids (e.g., gibbons, orangutans, chimpanzees, and gorillas) are considered specialized brachiators, yet peculiar among the living apes are anatomically modern humans (Homo sapiens), who have forgone this locomotor [...] Read more.

Brachiation is a form of suspensory locomotion observed only in Primates. The non-human hominoids (e.g., gibbons, orangutans, chimpanzees, and gorillas) are considered specialized brachiators, yet peculiar among the living apes are anatomically modern humans (Homo sapiens), who have forgone this locomotor mode in favor of bipedal striding. Humans can, however, brachiate and seem to have retained the locomotor capabilities of their arboreal ancestors. However, the mechanics of human brachiation have not been quantified. In this study, we evaluate how closely human brachiation conforms to the expectations of simple pendular motion using triaxial accelerometry and high-speed videography. These data are compared to specialized brachiating non-human primates. We found that humans have lower energy recovery than siamangs (Symphalangus syndactylus) during brachiation and have shorter observed pendular periods than expected compared to other primates. We demonstrate that relatively long forelimb length and high grip forces, a proxy for global forelimb force-generating potential, act as the main driving factors to reduce energetic costs through effective pendular recovery. These data are the first to assess the strategies humans adopt to perform a behavior they are not anatomically specialized to execute and places them within a comparative framework amongst other brachiating primates. We show that although humans demonstrate behavioral flexibility during brachiation (e.g., differing mediolateral and vertical center of mass positional movement patterns), anatomical features are the primary driver of variation in brachiation performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animals in 2023)

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17 pages, 1840 KiB

Open AccessArticle

National Dog Survey: Describing UK Dog and Ownership Demographics

by Katharine L. Anderson, Rachel A. Casey, Ben Cooper, Melissa M. Upjohn and Robert M. Christley

Animals 2023, 13(6), 1072; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13061072 - 16 Mar 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 7904

Abstract

With dogs being the most commonly owned companion animal in the United Kingdom, knowledge about dog demographics is important in understanding the impact of dogs on society. Furthermore, understanding the demography of dog owners is also important to better target support to dogs [...] Read more.

With dogs being the most commonly owned companion animal in the United Kingdom, knowledge about dog demographics is important in understanding the impact of dogs on society. Furthermore, understanding the demography of dog owners is also important to better target support to dogs and their owners to achieve optimal welfare in the canine population. Combining natural fluctuations in the population and unprecedented events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for an up-to-date large-scale dataset is even more paramount. In order to address this, Dogs Trust launched the ‘National Dog Survey’ to provide a large population-level dataset that will help identify key areas of concern and needs of owners and their dogs. The online survey was completed by a total of 354,046 respondents owning dogs in the UK, providing data for 440,423 dogs. The results of this study highlight dog demographics, including acquisition and veterinary factors, as well as owner demographic and household information. Finally, general trends in ownership, and more specifically those following the COVID-19 pandemic, are described. This paper’s findings provide valuable insight into the current population of dogs and their owners in the UK, allowing for the most appropriate products, services, interventions and regulations to be developed, reducing the likelihood of negative welfare outcomes such as health and behaviour issues, relinquishment or euthanasia. Furthermore, with significant changes to the dog population following the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted, this dataset serves as an up-to-date baseline for future study comparisons to continue to monitor trends and patterns of the dog population and dog owners going forwards. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animals in 2023)

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16 pages, 1167 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Shrews Under-Represented in Fruit Farms and Homesteads

by Linas Balčiauskas, Vitalijus Stirkė, Andrius Garbaras and Laima Balčiauskienė

Animals 2023, 13(6), 1028; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13061028 - 11 Mar 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1840

Abstract

Shrews are a less studied group of small mammals than rodents. Between 2018 and 2022, we surveyed 23 sites in Lithuania, including natural and anthropogenic habitats, with the aim to assess the proportion of Soricidae in small mammal communities and their diet based [...] Read more.

Shrews are a less studied group of small mammals than rodents. Between 2018 and 2022, we surveyed 23 sites in Lithuania, including natural and anthropogenic habitats, with the aim to assess the proportion of Soricidae in small mammal communities and their diet based on stable isotope analysis. The average representation of Soricidae was 3.1%, about half the long-term average in other habitats in the country. The highest proportions were in meadows and farmsteads, at 4.9% and 5.0% respectively. Shrews were not trapped on farms or in young orchards, and their relative abundance was very low in intensively managed orchards (0.006 individuals per 100 trap days). Neomys fodiens and N. anomalus were unexpectedly found in homesteads, including in outbuildings. Sorex araneus and S. minutus had similar diets. The trophic carbon/nitrogen discrimination factor between invertebrates and shrew hair was 2.74‰/3.98‰ for S. araneus, 1.90‰/3.78‰ for S. minutus in the orchards. The diet of N. fodiens and N. anomalus at the homesteads requires further investigation. We propose that the under-abundance of shrews may be due to contamination by plant protection products and a lack of invertebrates under intensive agricultural practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animals in 2023)

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15 pages, 1907 KiB

Open AccessArticle

On-Barn Forecasting Beef Cattle Production Based on Automated Non-Contact Body Measurement System

by Svetlana Gritsenko, Alexey Ruchay, Vladimir Kolpakov, Svyatoslav Lebedev, Hao Guo and Andrea Pezzuolo

Animals 2023, 13(4), 611; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13040611 - 9 Feb 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2576

Abstract

The main task of selective breeding is to determine the early productivity of offspring. The sooner the economic value of an animal is determined, the more profitable the result will be, due to the proper estimation of high and low productive calves and [...] Read more.

The main task of selective breeding is to determine the early productivity of offspring. The sooner the economic value of an animal is determined, the more profitable the result will be, due to the proper estimation of high and low productive calves and distribution of the resources among them, accordingly. To predict productivity, we offer to use a systematic assessment of animals by using the main genetic parameters (correlation coefficients, heritability, and regression) based on data such as the measurement of morphological characteristics of animals, obtained using the automated non-contact body measurement system based on RGB-D image capture. The usefulness of the image capture system lies in significant time reduction that is spent on data collection and improvement in data collection accuracy due to the absence of subjective measurement errors. We used the RGB-D image capture system to measure the live weight of mother cows, as well as the live weight and body size of their calves (height at the withers, height in the sacrum, oblique length of the trunk, chest depth, chest girth, pastern girth). Cows and cattle of black-and-white and Holstein breeds (n = 561) were selected as the object of the study. Correlation analysis revealed the main indices for the forecast of meat productivity—live weight and measurements of animals at birth. Calculation of the selection effect is necessary for planning breeding work, since it can determine the value of economically beneficial traits in subsequent generations, which is very important for increasing the profitability of livestock production. This approach can be used in livestock farms for predicting the meat productivity of black-and-white cattle. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animals in 2023)

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14 pages, 571 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Herd Level Yield Gap Analysis in a Local Scale Dairy Farming System: A Practical Approach to Discriminate between Nutritional and Other Constraining Factors

by Igino Andrighetto, Lorenzo Serva, Davide Fossaluzza and Giorgio Marchesini

Animals 2023, 13(3), 523; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030523 - 2 Feb 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1999

Abstract

This study performed a yield gap analysis to help farmers understand whether their constraints were mainly due to nutritional factors or management and health issues. Twenty-nine farms were periodically evaluated. Milk yield (MY), dry matter intake (DMI), total mixed ration (TMR) composition and [...] Read more.

This study performed a yield gap analysis to help farmers understand whether their constraints were mainly due to nutritional factors or management and health issues. Twenty-nine farms were periodically evaluated. Milk yield (MY), dry matter intake (DMI), total mixed ration (TMR) composition and homogeneity index (HI), TMR digestibility, income over feed cost (IOFC), and MY summer–winter ratio (SWR) were collected. Farms were divided and compared according to the average annual MY: Low (L), Medium (M) and High (H), characterised by <31.1, 31.1–36.7 and >36.7 kg/head/day. An ANOVA mixed model and a stepwise regression to assess the relationship between nutritional variables and MY were run. H farms showed higher IOFC (p < 0.001), DMI (p = 0.006), DDM (p < 0.001), digestible crude protein (DCP, p = 0.019), HI (p = 0.09), SWR (p = 0.041) and lower HI coefficient of variation (p = 0.04). The conversion of DDM into milk was higher in H and M farms. Stepwise regression for MY selected DDM and CP (R² = 0.716, p < 0.05). M farms were mainly constrained by nutritional factors, whereas L farms were also affected by other factors such as those related to management and health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animals in 2023)

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12 pages, 1266 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fattening Iberian Pigs Indoors vs. Outdoors: Production Performance and Market Value

by Andrés Horrillo, Paula Gaspar, Ángel Muñoz, Miguel Escribano and Elena González

Animals 2023, 13(3), 506; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030506 - 31 Jan 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2509

Abstract

The current Quality Standard regulating the Iberian pig provides for various differentiated farming systems subject to the type of management implemented and the breed of the pigs. This study attempts to analyse the differences between two of these production systems, i.e., the outdoor [...] Read more.

The current Quality Standard regulating the Iberian pig provides for various differentiated farming systems subject to the type of management implemented and the breed of the pigs. This study attempts to analyse the differences between two of these production systems, i.e., the outdoor and the indoor rearing systems by comparing the main technical and economic factors of six farms, three operating under each system, in order to ascertain the most profitable production system. This analysis is based on the information provided by the farm owners. It also evaluates the impact that the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak had on profitability. The results show that both systems spend the same resources on animal feed, which represents nearly 60% of the expense, with the price of purchase of piglets representing 30–32% of the total; however, there are differences in the cost of labour, which is higher in the outdoor variant. In economic terms, outdoor farms obtained a higher gross margin than indoor farms did. Although their production costs are higher, these are offset with larger incomes due to the higher market price of the pigs at the time of slaughter. Lastly, all the farms under study reveal large financial losses on account of COVID-19, given that there was a general decrease in the revenues due to the decrease in the selling price of the pigs, which seems to be the most determinant factor for the economic profits made by these kinds of farms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animals in 2023)

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34 pages, 10056 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Is the Lesser Khingan Suitable for the Amur Tiger Restoration? Perspectives with the Current State of the Habitat and Prey Base

by Anna Yachmennikova, Shibing Zhu, Ivan Kotlov, Robert Sandlersky, Qu Yi and Viatcheslav Rozhnov

Animals 2023, 13(1), 155; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13010155 - 30 Dec 2022

Viewed by 3135

Abstract

The Amur tiger (Panthera tigris) has a status of being endangered on the world’s IUCN red list. The northwestern part of its range is situated in Russia and China, where tigers were exterminated by humans in the 1950–1970s. To restore tiger [...] Read more.

The Amur tiger (Panthera tigris) has a status of being endangered on the world’s IUCN red list. The northwestern part of its range is situated in Russia and China, where tigers were exterminated by humans in the 1950–1970s. To restore tiger population within a historical range, an estimation of the habitat suitability is firstly needed. The Lesser Khingan mountains (Heilongjiang) was analyzed. Habitat types were mapped by satellite images analysis and field proven. The potential habitats of the main tiger’s prey species (wild boar (Sus scrofa), roe deer (Capreolus pygargus), and red deer (Cervus elaphus xanthopygus) were also assessed. Maximum entropy and linear discriminant analysis methods were applied and compared for species distribution modeling (SDM). Species distribution maps were used to design an ecological network. The fragmentation of habitat patches was evaluated by spatial ecological metrics. The habitat patches with the best metrics were assigned as cores for the ecological network, which were connected by calculated corridors. The least cost distance method (based on distance to roads and settlements) was used. The recovery of the Amur tiger in habitats of China’s Lesser Khingan is shown to be possible. Types of habitats were calculated as natural corridors for moving tigers. They are mainly located at the forests’ edges and characterized with various canopy structures and high variability in the tree species composition. Three potential transboundary corridors are described: (a) foothills and low mountains of the northern Lesser Khingan; (b) connection between the southeast Lesser Khingan and the western part of the Wandashan mountain system; and (c) corridor within foothills and low mountains of the eastern part of Lesser Khingan. It is recommended to establish protected areas for the important tiger core habitats, and the main optimal ways for their migrations are described during the current investigation. Moreover, it is necessary to implement habitat recovery activities for key areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animals in 2023)

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Review

Jump to: Editorial, Research, Other

14 pages, 667 KiB

Open AccessReview

Application of Exogenous GnRH in Food Animal Production

by A. H. M. Musleh Uddin, Kiro R. Petrovski, Yunmei Song, Sanjay Garg and Roy N. Kirkwood

Animals 2023, 13(12), 1891; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13121891 - 6 Jun 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3063

Abstract

Over several decades, exogenous GnRH and agonists have been employed for controlling reproductive cascades in animals, and treating some reproductive morbidities. The administration of GnRH is used in animals to counter ovarian dysfunction, induce ovulation, and to increase conception and pregnancy rates. GnRH [...] Read more.

Over several decades, exogenous GnRH and agonists have been employed for controlling reproductive cascades in animals, and treating some reproductive morbidities. The administration of GnRH is used in animals to counter ovarian dysfunction, induce ovulation, and to increase conception and pregnancy rates. GnRH and its agonists are used in the treatment of cystic ovarian degeneration and repeat breeder syndrome. The development of protocols for GnRH administration by intramuscular injection, intramuscular or subcutaneous implants, and intravaginal deposition has empowered their clinical use worldwide. Currently, exogenous GnRH products are a central part of several pre- and post-breeding programs for the enhancement of fertility, including the control of estrous cycles and timing of ovulation, development of fixed-time artificial insemination protocols, improved embryo survival, and the treatment of reproductive morbidity. The aim of the present review is to summarize the application of exogenous GnRH agonists in food animal production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animals in 2023)

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26 pages, 434 KiB

Open AccessReview

Calcium Nutrition of Broilers: Current Perspectives and Challenges

by Laura Shiromi David, M. Naveed Anwar, M. Reza Abdollahi, Michael R. Bedford and Velmurugu Ravindran

Animals 2023, 13(10), 1590; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13101590 - 9 May 2023

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 5784

Abstract

Calcium (Ca) plays an essential role in poultry nutrition as 99% of Ca is located in birds’ skeletal system. However, oversupply of Ca rather than deficiency of Ca is the current concern in commercial broiler diets. Calcium is an inexpensive dietary nutrient due [...] Read more.

Calcium (Ca) plays an essential role in poultry nutrition as 99% of Ca is located in birds’ skeletal system. However, oversupply of Ca rather than deficiency of Ca is the current concern in commercial broiler diets. Calcium is an inexpensive dietary nutrient due to the cheap and abundant availability of limestone, the major Ca source; therefore, little attention was given to the oversupply of Ca in the past. The recent shift in the use of digestible P in broiler feed formulations has necessitated a closer look at digestible Ca, as Ca and P are interrelated in their absorption and postabsorptive utilisation. In this context, data on ileal digestibility of Ca and P in ingredients has been determined. Preliminary data on the digestible Ca and digestible P requirements for the different growth stages of broilers have also recently become available. The present review focusses on these recent advances in Ca nutrition. In addition, aspects of homeostatic control mechanisms, different Ca sources and factors influencing Ca digestibility in poultry are covered. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animals in 2023)

28 pages, 6149 KiB

Open AccessReview

Mental Experiences in Wild Animals: Scientifically Validating Measurable Welfare Indicators in Free-Roaming Horses

by Andrea M. Harvey, Ngaio J. Beausoleil, Daniel Ramp and David J. Mellor

Animals 2023, 13(9), 1507; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13091507 - 28 Apr 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 5558

Abstract

The mental experiences of animals are what characterises their welfare status. The Five Domains Model for assessing welfare aligns with the understanding that physical and mental states are linked. Following measurement of indicators within each of the four physical/functional Domains (1. Nutrition; 2. [...] Read more.

The mental experiences of animals are what characterises their welfare status. The Five Domains Model for assessing welfare aligns with the understanding that physical and mental states are linked. Following measurement of indicators within each of the four physical/functional Domains (1. Nutrition; 2. Physical environment; 3. Health; and 4. Behavioural interactions), the anticipated negative or positive affective consequences (mental experiences) are cautiously inferred and assigned to Domain 5. Those inferences derive credibility from validated knowledge of the underlying systems of physiology, neurophysiology, neuroethology and affective neuroscience. Any indicators used for assessing welfare need to be scientifically validated. This requires, firstly, evidence of the links between a measurable/observable indicator and the physical/functional impact (in Domains 1 to 4), and secondly, a demonstrable relationship between the physical/functional impact and the mental experience it is inferred the indicators reflect (in Domain five). This review refers to indicators of physical/functional states in Domains 1 to 4, which have been shown to be measurable in free-roaming wild horses, and then evaluates the scientific evidence linking them to inferred mental experiences in Domain 5. This is the first time that the scientific evidence validating a comprehensive range of welfare indicators has been synthesised in this way. Inserting these indicators into the Five Domains Model enables transparently justifiable assessment and grading of welfare status in free-roaming horses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animals in 2023)

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13 pages, 903 KiB

Open AccessReview

Vitamin B12 in Cats: Nutrition, Metabolism, and Disease

by Gerardo Siani, Beatrice Mercaldo, Maria Chiara Alterisio and Antonio Di Loria

Animals 2023, 13(9), 1474; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13091474 - 26 Apr 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 7697

Abstract

Cobalamin is a water-soluble molecule that has an important role in cellular metabolism, especially in DNA synthesis, methylation, and mitochondrial metabolism. Cobalamin is bound by intrinsic factor (IF) and absorbed in the ileal tract. The IF in cats is synthesized exclusively by pancreatic [...] Read more.

Cobalamin is a water-soluble molecule that has an important role in cellular metabolism, especially in DNA synthesis, methylation, and mitochondrial metabolism. Cobalamin is bound by intrinsic factor (IF) and absorbed in the ileal tract. The IF in cats is synthesized exclusively by pancreatic tissue. About 75% of the total plasma cobalamin in cats is associated with transcobalamin II, while in this species, transcobalamin I is not present. In cats, the half-life of cobalamin is 11–14 days. Diagnostic biomarkers for B12 status in cats include decreased levels of circulating total cobalamin and increased levels of methylmalonic acid. The reference interval for serum cobalamin concentrations in cats is 290–1500 ng/L, and for the serum methylmalonic acid concentration, it is 139–897 nmol/L. Therapy for hypocobalaminemia mainly depends on the underlying disease. In some cases, subcutaneous or intramuscular injection of 250 μg/cat is empirically administered. In recent years, it has been demonstrated that oral cobalamin supplementation can also be used successfully in dogs and cats as a less invasive alternative to parental administration. This review describes the current knowledge regarding B12 requirements and highlights improvements in diagnostic methods as well as the role of hypocobalaminemia in its associated diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animals in 2023)

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13 pages, 1582 KiB

Open AccessReview

Red Blood Cell Distribution Width as a Novel Parameter in Canine Disorders: Literature Review and Future Prospective

by Arianna Miglio, Carlotta Valente and Carlo Guglielmini

Animals 2023, 13(6), 985; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13060985 - 8 Mar 2023

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 7695

Abstract

Red blood cell distribution width (RDW) is a quantitative laboratory parameter applied for the measurement of anisocytosis and is a reliable and inexpensive method for clinical classification of anemia. An increased RDW reflects a great heterogeneity in the size of red blood cells [...] Read more.

Red blood cell distribution width (RDW) is a quantitative laboratory parameter applied for the measurement of anisocytosis and is a reliable and inexpensive method for clinical classification of anemia. An increased RDW reflects a great heterogeneity in the size of red blood cells typical of regenerative and iron-deficiency anemia. In humans, numerous and recent studies have shown a relationship between increased RDW and the risk of morbidity and mortality in patients with various disorders. In particular, a strong association has been established between changes in RDW and the risk of adverse outcome in humans with diseases affecting different organs or systems. Following the human literature, some studies have recently been conducted trying to clarify the clinical role of RDW in various animal disorders, particularly in dogs. In this review, we summarize and critically evaluate the results of the studies based on the measurement of RDW in dogs. We also emphasize the need for further and more extensive studies on the use of this simple and inexpensive parameter in animals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animals in 2023)

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15 pages, 1038 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Bioeconomic Model for the Thoroughbred Racing Industry—Optimisation of the Production Cycle with a Horse Centric Welfare Perspective

by Kylie A. Legg, Erica K. Gee, Mary Breheny, Michaela J. Gibson and Chris W. Rogers

Animals 2023, 13(3), 479; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030479 - 30 Jan 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3516

Abstract

The Thoroughbred racing industry faces new and competing pressures to operate within a modern, changing society. Three major moderators drive the focus and productivity of the industry worldwide: economic sustainability, horse biology and social licence to operate. This review proposes that despite the [...] Read more.

The Thoroughbred racing industry faces new and competing pressures to operate within a modern, changing society. Three major moderators drive the focus and productivity of the industry worldwide: economic sustainability, horse biology and social licence to operate. This review proposes that despite the apparent homogeneity in the structure of racing across jurisdictions due to international regulation of the sport, there are significant differences within each jurisdiction in each of the three moderators. This creates challenges for the comparison of injury risk factors for racehorses within the industry across different jurisdictions. Comparison of the relative distribution of racing and gambling metrics internationally indicates that the Asian jurisdictions have a high focus on gambling efficiency and high economic return of the product, with a high number of starts per horse and the highest relative betting turnover. In contrast, the racing metrics from the USA have proportionally low racing stakes and fewer horses per race. These differences provide insight into the sociology of horse ownership, with a shift from the long-term return on investment held by most jurisdictions to a short-term transitional view and immediate return on investment in others. Wastage studies identify varying risks influenced by the predominant racing culture, training methods, production focus and environment within individual jurisdictions. Increasing societal pressure to maintain high racehorse welfare and reduce the negative impact of gambling poses fluctuating risks to each jurisdiction’s social licence to operate. Based on the data presented within this review, the authors propose that the use of a bioeconomic model would permit consideration of all three moderators on industry practice and optimisation of the jurisdiction-specific production cycle with a horse-centric welfare perspective. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animals in 2023)

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32 pages, 2248 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Review of Rat (Rattus norvegicus), Mouse (Mus musculus), Guinea pig (Cavia porcellus), and Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) Indicators for Welfare Assessment

by Shari Cohen and Cindy Ho

Animals 2023, 13(13), 2167; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13132167 - 30 Jun 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3910

Abstract

The monitoring and assessment of animals is important for their health and welfare. The appropriate selection of multiple, validated, and feasible welfare assessment indicators is required to effectively identify compromises or improvements to animal welfare. Animal welfare indicators can be animal or resource [...] Read more.

The monitoring and assessment of animals is important for their health and welfare. The appropriate selection of multiple, validated, and feasible welfare assessment indicators is required to effectively identify compromises or improvements to animal welfare. Animal welfare indicators can be animal or resource based. Indicators can be collated to form assessment tools (e.g., grimace scales) or animal welfare assessment models (e.g., 5 Domains) and frameworks (e.g., 5 Freedoms). The literature contains a wide variety of indicators, with both types needed for effective animal welfare assessment; however, there is yet to be an ideal constellation of indicators for animal-based welfare assessment in small mammals such as guinea pigs (Cavia Porcellus), mice (Mus musculus), rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus), and rats (Rattus norvegicus). A systematic review of grey and peer-reviewed literature was performed to determine the types of animal-based welfare indicators available to identify and assess animal health and welfare in these small mammals maintained across a wide variety of conditions. The available indicators were categorised and scored against a selection of criteria, including potential ease of use and costs. This review and analysis aim to provide the basis for further research into animal welfare indicators for these species. Future applications of this work may include improvements to animal welfare assessments or schemes, guiding better management, and implementing future strategies to enable better animal welfare. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animals in 2023)

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