Journal of Animal Behaviour and Biometeorology
https://www.jabbnet.com/journal/jabbnet/article/doi/10.31893/jabb.22016
Journal of Animal Behaviour and Biometeorology
Review Article Open Access

Effects of transport on water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis): factors associated with the frequency of skin injuries and meat quality

Nancy José-Pérez, Daniel Mota-Rojas, Marcelo Ghezzi, Marcelo Rosmini, Patricia Mora Medina, Aldo Bertoni, Daniela Rodríguez-González, Adriana Domínguez-Oliva, Isabel Guerrero Legarreta

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Abstract

It is well known that transporting livestock is stressful for the animals and a primary cause of skin lesions. The effects of transport on the water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) have not been studied extensively despite reports of high incidences of trauma during and after these mobilizations. The present review article analyzes the frequency of skin injuries suffered by water buffaloes during transport and several key contributing factors. It also discusses the consequences of injuries on the quality of carcasses. Important aspects identified include inappropriate vehicle design that does not comply with the dimensions recommended by international institutions (e.g., height, type of flooring, characteristics of the ramp), handling methods, and the ability of stockpeople to manage water buffaloes, all of which impact the incidence of injuries. Our analysis of these elements will contribute to identifying critical control points and areas of opportunity while also suggesting strategies to ensure the welfare of these animals during transport and the quality of water buffalo products and by-products.

Keywords

animal welfare, antemortem, bruises, carcass, injuries, transport

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Submitted date:
01/16/2022

Reviewed date:
02/16/2022

Accepted date:
02/16/2022

6206714aa953955eff57ae74 jabbnet Articles
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