Characterization and frequency of foot injuries and foot-related lameness in a sheep herd with prophylactic measures for foot-related diseases / Caracterização e frequência de lesões podais e da claudicação em rebanho ovino com medidas profiláticas de doenças podais

Foot lesions in sheep herds are responsible for great economic losses, because pain during locomotion interferes with feeding and behavior, leading productivity losses. The objective of this work was to describe the main foot disease found in sheep herd that uses prophylactic measures against foot diseases. A total of 346 ewes of different ages, with or without lameness, were assessed for the presence of foot lesions in all limbs, digits and adjacent structures. Among all the 2768 digits evaluated, 103 (29.76%) had lesions, representing 1.04 lesion per animal. 41.75% (43/103) had only one lesion, 39.81% (41/103) had two lesions, 16 (15.53%) had three lesions, and only 2.91% (3/103) had four or more lesions. Hind limbs were the most affected and the most frequent diseases were white line disease (40.05%), interdigital dermatitis (33.70%) and footrot (12.15%). It was concluded that foot disease in sheep is frequent and constitute a health problem for herds, even on farms that use strategies to prevent it. Therefore, it is essential to classify the lesions, as well as the adoption of effective prophylactic and therapeutic measures.

Lesões podais em ovinos são responsáveis por grandes perdas econômicas, pois a dor durante a locomoção interfere na alimentação e no comportamento, levando à perda de produtividade. O objetivo deste trabalho foi descrever as principais doenças podais encontradas em rebanho ovino, que utiliza medidas profiláticas contra as doenças podais. Foram examinadas 346 ovelhas quanto à presença de lesões podais em todos os membros, dígitos e estruturas adjacentes. Entre os 2.768 dígitos avaliados, 103 (29,76%) apresentavam lesões, representando 1,04 lesões por animal. 41,75% (43/103) apresentavam apenas uma lesão, 39,81% (41/103) tinham duas lesões, 16 (15,53%) tinham três lesões, e apenas três animais apresentavam quatro ou mais lesões. Os membros posteriores foram os mais afetados e as doenças mais frequentes foram a doença da linha branca (40,05%), dermatite interdigital (33,70%) e footrot (12,15%). Pode-se concluir que as lesões podais em ovinos são frequentes e constituem um problema sanitário para os rebanhos, mesmo em propriedade que realiza medidas profiláticas. Portanto, é fundamental classificar as lesões, assim como adotar as medidas profiláticas e terapêuticas eficazes.

Carcass Washing as an Alternative to Trimming - Is It Possible to Use Carcass Washing as an Alternative to Trimming in Commercial Broiler Slaughterhouses in Brazil?

This study aimed to evaluate visual contamination rates of carcasses of broilers slaughtered in establishments supervised by the Federal Inspection Service (SIF) and efficiency of carcass washing in replacement of trimming. The work was divided into three parts: analysis of partial and total carcass condemnation by contamination in hot (October to March) and cold (April to September) periods; evaluation of microbiological contamination before and after washing 800 carcasses (400 that did not go through washing x 400 that went through washing); and carcass washing test. For the test, twenty carcasses were evaluated in five treatments: carcasses without contamination - before washing; carcasses without contamination - after washing; contaminated carcasses - before washing and before trimming; contaminated carcasses - after washing; contaminated carcasses - after trimming. Hot and cold periods obtained a similar number and weight of slaughtered chickens. There were no differences regarding condemnation by contamination. Periods of the year did not influence the average weight of the birds slaughtered in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul. Carcass washing in the slaughter line was effective in reducing total bacterial contamination, E. coli, and enterobacteria. There is a similarity in the reduction of condemnations by contamination, evidencing that the uniformity of production systems. Although it is not yet a reality in Brazilian slaughterhouses, the washing procedure can be considered a safe replacement for trimming.(AU)

Carcass Washing as an Alternative to Trimming - Is It Possible to Use Carcass Washing as an Alternative to Trimming in Commercial Broiler Slaughterhouses in Brazil?

This study aimed to evaluate visual contamination rates of carcasses of broilers slaughtered in establishments supervised by the Federal Inspection Service (SIF) and efficiency of carcass washing in replacement of trimming. The work was divided into three parts: analysis of partial and total carcass condemnation by contamination in hot (October to March) and cold (April to September) periods; evaluation of microbiological contamination before and after washing 800 carcasses (400 that did not go through washing x 400 that went through washing); and carcass washing test. For the test, twenty carcasses were evaluated in five treatments: carcasses without contamination - before washing; carcasses without contamination - after washing; contaminated carcasses - before washing and before trimming; contaminated carcasses - after washing; contaminated carcasses - after trimming. Hot and cold periods obtained a similar number and weight of slaughtered chickens. There were no differences regarding condemnation by contamination. Periods of the year did not influence the average weight of the birds slaughtered in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul. Carcass washing in the slaughter line was effective in reducing total bacterial contamination, E. coli, and enterobacteria. There is a similarity in the reduction of condemnations by contamination, evidencing that the uniformity of production systems. Although it is not yet a reality in Brazilian slaughterhouses, the washing procedure can be considered a safe replacement for trimming.

Beak trimming by infrared radiation of layers

This study aimed at evaluating beak-trimming methods and intensities on the performance, beak length and uniformity, and egg parameters of commercial layers. During the rearing period, birds were distributed in randomized blocks, with a 2x3 factorial design + two treatments, consisting of beak trimming with infrared (IR) radiation (moderate or severe); three IR intensities (low: 42 nm, intermediate: 46 nm, or high: 52 nm); and two control hot blade (HB) beak trimming treatments (moderate or severe) with eight treatments and five replicates of 21 chicks each, totaling 840 birds. During the growing phase (second experiment) the factorial design was modified to 2 x 3 x 2 + 4, comprising two IR beak-trimming intensities (moderate or severe); three IR radiation intensities (low, moderate and high), second beak trimming at 11 weeks of age or not, and four additional HB beak-trimming treatments (moderate or severe) beak-trimming intensities, and second beak trimming at 11 weeks of age or not. There were 16 treatments with six replicates of seven birds each, totaling 672 laying hens, out of which 576 were selected for evaluation during the production period, with the same number of treatments and replicates of the previous phase. Weight gain (g), body weight (g), body weight uniformity (%), beak length (mm) and uniformity (%), absence of cannibalism (%), livability (%), egg production (%), feed intake (g), feed conversion per eggmass, eggmass, specific gravity, eggshell strength, Haugh unit, % yolk were evaluated. Beak trimming by infra-red radiation may be employed in commercial laying hens.(AU)

Beak trimming by infrared radiation of layers

This study aimed at evaluating beak-trimming methods and intensities on the performance, beak length and uniformity, and egg parameters of commercial layers. During the rearing period, birds were distributed in randomized blocks, with a 2x3 factorial design + two treatments, consisting of beak trimming with infrared (IR) radiation (moderate or severe); three IR intensities (low: 42 nm, intermediate: 46 nm, or high: 52 nm); and two control hot blade (HB) beak trimming treatments (moderate or severe) with eight treatments and five replicates of 21 chicks each, totaling 840 birds. During the growing phase (second experiment) the factorial design was modified to 2 x 3 x 2 + 4, comprising two IR beak-trimming intensities (moderate or severe); three IR radiation intensities (low, moderate and high), second beak trimming at 11 weeks of age or not, and four additional HB beak-trimming treatments (moderate or severe) beak-trimming intensities, and second beak trimming at 11 weeks of age or not. There were 16 treatments with six replicates of seven birds each, totaling 672 laying hens, out of which 576 were selected for evaluation during the production period, with the same number of treatments and replicates of the previous phase. Weight gain (g), body weight (g), body weight uniformity (%), beak length (mm) and uniformity (%), absence of cannibalism (%), livability (%), egg production (%), feed intake (g), feed conversion per eggmass, eggmass, specific gravity, eggshell strength, Haugh unit, % yolk were evaluated. Beak trimming by infra-red radiation may be employed in commercial laying hens.

Prevalence and distribution of feet lesions in dairy cows raised in the freestall / Prevalência e distribuição de lesões podais em vacas leiteiras criadas em free stall

Foot lesions are one of the main causes of productivity losses in the dairy industry. In this study, we aimed to estimate the prevalence of claudication and distribution of hoof lesions by associating them with preventive hoof trimming, as well as list the main causes of involuntary discarding and the main health problems reported in dairy farms. The study included 10 farms distributed in 7 municipalities of Rio Grande do Sul state. The body condition score (BCS) and locomotion score (LS) of the cows were assessed. Hoof examination, lesion classification, and hoof trimming of the animals were performed. Of the 492 animals, 38.4% presented lameness and 36% had foot lesions, 81.4% of which were observed in the pelvic limbs and 19.6% in the thoracic limbs. Of the lesions in the limbs, 47.1% were of infectious origin and 52.9% were noninfectious. The main lesions were sole ulcers (31.6%), digital dermatitis (30.3%), thin soles (12%), and interdigital dermatitis (11.2%). Cows aged 4 to 6 years had a higher number of lesions and a higher LS. Preventive hoof trimming reduced the chances of lameness by 55% as the locomotive system was the main sanitary problem and the first reason for involuntary disposal of the farms. The results show that dairy cows raised in a free stall system have a high prevalence of claudication and foot diseases. These data should be taken into account when altering the livestock management of these animals in order to reduce significant economic losses in the herd.(AU)

As lesões podais são uma das principais causas de perdas de produtividade na indústria leiteira. Neste estudo, tivemos como objetivo estimar a prevalência de claudicação e distribuição de lesões de casco associando-as com a realização de casqueamento preventivo, assim como elencar as principais causas de descarte involuntário e de principais problemas sanitários relatados nas propriedades. Foram incluídas no estudo 10 propriedades, distribuídas em 7 municípios do Rio Grande do Sul. As vacas foram examinadas quanto ao seu escore de condição corporal (ECC) e escore de locomoção (EL). Foram realizados os exames de casco, a classificação das lesões e o casqueamento dos animais. Dos 492 animais, 38,4% apresentaram claudicação e 36% possuíam lesões podais, sendo 81,4% delas observadas nos membros pélvicos e 19,6% nos membros torácicos. Das lesões nos membros, 47,1% foram de origem infecciosa e 52,9% não infecciosa. As principais lesões diagnosticadas foram úlcera de sola (31,6%), dermatite digital (30,3%), sola delgada (12%) e dermatite interdigital (11,2%). As vacas com idade entre 4 e 6 anos apresentaram maior concentração de lesões e maior grau de EL. O casqueamento preventivo reduziu em 55% as chances de claudicação, assim como o sistema locomotor foi o principal problema sanitário e primeiro motivo de descarte involuntário das propriedades. Os resultados obtidos revelam que vacas leiteiras criadas em sistema free stall apresentam uma alta prevalência de claudicação e de afecções podais. Esses dados devem ser levados em consideração quando da alteração do manejo de criação destes animais, visando a reduzir as expressivas perdas econômicas no rebanho.(AU)

Differences in mineral concentrations on hooves of horses, mules and donkeys / Diferenças nas concentrações de minerais nos cascos de equinos, muares e asininos

This study aimed to measure the concentrations of minerals in different regions and pigmentation of horses' hooves, mules and donkeys. A total of 20 Crioulo horses, 20 mules and 20 Pega donkeys were used. They formed two groups: pigmented (dark) or non-pigmented (bright) hooves. All animals were unshod and with adequate foot conformation. Females were non-pregnant and without foal and no animals were in training. Samples were collected from the hooves of all limbs in the regions of wall, sole and frog. The concentrations of calcium, magnesium, copper, iron and zinc were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry; sodium and potassium concentrations were determined by atomic emission spectrophotometry. Among the groups it was observed that the wall, sole and frog of donkeys' hooves presented higher concentrations of sodium and calcium and with the exception of the frog that also obtained higher levels of copper in this species. Mules had lower concentrations of zinc in the wall and the horses had higher concentrations of potassium and zinc in the sole and higher magnesium in the frog and wall. There was no difference (P>0.05) in concentrations regarding the pigmentation of the hooves. The different regions of the hooves in each group presented similar concentrations of minerals and it was regardless of the pigmentation. The mineral concentrations may be related to desirable functional properties of the donkeys' hooves. Pigmented and non-pigmented hooves have similar concentrations of minerals.

O objetivo desse trabalho foi mensurar os teores de minerais nas diferentes regiões e pigmentações dos cascos de equinos, muares e asininos. Utilizaram-se 20 equinos da raça Crioula, 20 muares e 20 asininos da raça Pêga. Formaram-se dois grupos conforme os cascos pigmentados (escuros) e não pigmentados (claros). Todos os animais estavam desferrados e com adequada conformação podal e as fêmeas estavam não gestantes e sem potro ao pé e nenhum animal estava em treinamento. Amostras foram coletadas dos cascos de todos os membros nas regiões de parede, sola e ranilha. As concentrações de cálcio, magnésio, cobre, ferro e zinco foram determinadas por espectrofotometria de absorção atômica e as concentrações de sódio e potássio foram determinadas por espectrofotometria de emissão atômica. Entre os grupos observou-se que a parede, sola e ranilha nos asininos apresentaram maiores valores de sódio e cálcio e, exceto para a ranilha, também obteve-se maiores teores de cobre nesta espécie. Os muares apresentaram menores teores de zinco na parede e, os equinos, maiores teores de potássio e zinco na sola e ranilha e de magnésio na ranilha e parede. Não houve diferença (P>0,05) nos teores dos minerais quanto à pigmentação dos cascos. As diferentes regiões dos cascos em cada grupo apresentaram teores similares de minerais e este independeu da pigmentação. As variações dos teores de minerais entre os grupos podem estar relacionados a propriedades funcionais desejáveis dos cascos dos asininos. Cascos pigmentados e não pigmentados apresentam teores similares dos minerais.

Differences in mineral concentrations on hooves of horses, mules and donkeys / Diferenças nas concentrações de minerais nos cascos deequinos, muares e asininos

This study aimed to measure the concentrations of minerals in different regions and pigmentation of horses hooves, mules and donkeys. A total of 20 Crioulo horses, 20 mules and 20 Pega donkeys were used. They formed two groups: pigmented (dark) or non-pigmented (bright) hooves. All animals were unshod and with adequate foot conformation. Females were nonpregnant and without foal and no animals were in training. Samples were collected from the hooves of all limbs in the regions of wall, sole and frog. The concentrations of calcium, magnesium, copper, iron and zinc were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry; sodium and potassium concentrations were determined by atomic emission spectrophotometry. Among the groups it was observed that the wall, sole and frog of donkeys hooves presented higher concentrations of sodium and calcium and with the exception of the frog that also obtained higher levels of copper in this species. Mules had lower concentrations of zinc in the wall and the horses had higher concentrations of potassium and zinc in the sole and higher magnesium in the frog and wall. There was no difference (P>0.05) in concentrations regarding the pigmentation of the hooves. The different regions of the hooves in each group presented similar concentrations of minerals and it was regardless of the pigmentation. The mineral concentrations may be related to desirable functional properties of the donkeys hooves. Pigmented and non-pigmented hooves have similar concentrations of minerals.(AU)

O objetivo desse trabalho foi mensurar os teores de minerais nas diferentes regiões e pigmentações dos cascos de equinos, muares e asininos. Utilizaram-se 20 equinos da raça Crioula, 20 muares e 20 asininos da raça Pêga. Formaram-se dois grupos conforme os cascos pigmentados (escuros) e não pigmentados (claros). Todos os animais estavam desferrados e com adequada conformação podal e as fêmeas estavam não gestantes e sem potro ao pé e nenhum animal estava em treinamento. Amostras foram coletadas dos cascos de todos os membros nas regiões de parede, sola e ranilha. As concentrações de cálcio, magnésio, cobre, ferro e zinco foram determinadas por espectrofotometria de absorção atômica e as concentrações de sódio e potássio foram determinadas por espectrofotometria de emissão atômica. Entre os grupos observou-se que a parede, sola e ranilha nos asininos apresentaram maiores valores de sódio e cálcio e, exceto para a ranilha, também obteve-se maiores teores de cobre nesta espécie. Os muares apresentaram menores teores de zinco na parede e, os equinos, maiores teores de potássio e zinco na sola e ranilha e de magnésio na ranilha e parede. Não houve diferença (P>0,05) nos teores dos minerais quanto à pigmentação dos cascos. As diferentes regiões dos cascos em cada grupo apresentaram teores similares de minerais e este independeu da pigmentação. As variações dos teores de minerais entre os grupos podem estar relacionados a propriedades funcionais desejáveis dos cascos dos asininos. Cascos pigmentados e não pigmentados apresentam teores similares dos minerais.(AU)

Differences in mineral concentrations on hooves of horses, mules and donkeys / Diferenças nas concentrações de minerais nos cascos deequinos, muares e asininos

This study aimed to measure the concentrations of minerals in different regions and pigmentation of horses’ hooves, mules and donkeys. A total of 20 Crioulo horses, 20 mules and 20 Pega donkeys were used. They formed two groups: pigmented (dark) or non-pigmented (bright) hooves. All animals were unshod and with adequate foot conformation. Females were nonpregnant and without foal and no animals were in training. Samples were collected from the hooves of all limbs in the regions of wall, sole and frog. The concentrations of calcium, magnesium, copper, iron and zinc were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry; sodium and potassium concentrations were determined by atomic emission spectrophotometry. Among the groups it was observed that the wall, sole and frog of donkeys’ hooves presented higher concentrations of sodium and calcium and with the exception of the frog that also obtained higher levels of copper in this species. Mules had lower concentrations of zinc in the wall and the horses had higher concentrations of potassium and zinc in the sole and higher magnesium in the frog and wall. There was no difference (P>0.05) in concentrations regarding the pigmentation of the hooves. The different regions of the hooves in each group presented similar concentrations of minerals and it was regardless of the pigmentation. The mineral concentrations may be related to desirable functional properties of the donkeys’ hooves. Pigmented and non-pigmented hooves have similar concentrations of minerals.

O objetivo desse trabalho foi mensurar os teores de minerais nas diferentes regiões e pigmentações dos cascos de equinos, muares e asininos. Utilizaram-se 20 equinos da raça Crioula, 20 muares e 20 asininos da raça Pêga. Formaram-se dois grupos conforme os cascos pigmentados (escuros) e não pigmentados (claros). Todos os animais estavam desferrados e com adequada conformação podal e as fêmeas estavam não gestantes e sem potro ao pé e nenhum animal estava em treinamento. Amostras foram coletadas dos cascos de todos os membros nas regiões de parede, sola e ranilha. As concentrações de cálcio, magnésio, cobre, ferro e zinco foram determinadas por espectrofotometria de absorção atômica e as concentrações de sódio e potássio foram determinadas por espectrofotometria de emissão atômica. Entre os grupos observou-se que a parede, sola e ranilha nos asininos apresentaram maiores valores de sódio e cálcio e, exceto para a ranilha, também obteve-se maiores teores de cobre nesta espécie. Os muares apresentaram menores teores de zinco na parede e, os equinos, maiores teores de potássio e zinco na sola e ranilha e de magnésio na ranilha e parede. Não houve diferença (P>0,05) nos teores dos minerais quanto à pigmentação dos cascos. As diferentes regiões dos cascos em cada grupo apresentaram teores similares de minerais e este independeu da pigmentação. As variações dos teores de minerais entre os grupos podem estar relacionados a propriedades funcionais desejáveis dos cascos dos asininos. Cascos pigmentados e não pigmentados apresentam teores similares dos minerais.

Performance and carcass characteristics of feedlot-finished Zebu cattle in different feeding systems / Desempenho e características da carcaça de bovinos anelorados terminados em diferentes sistemas de alimentação

The performance and characteristics of 18 carcasses of feedlot-finished Zebu cattle were evaluated over 93 days in confinement or semi-confinement systems. In the semi-confinement system, two strategies of pasture deferral were adopted, 40 days (40DD) and 80 days (80DD). The feed of animals in confinement was composed of 24% of grass silage Urochloa spp. and 76% concentrate, on dry matter, freely supplied twice daily. Grazing animals received 4 kg of animal concentrate per day. The final fasting weight of the animals in confinement (534.92 kg) was higher than that of animals semi-confined in 40DD (475.33 kg) and 80DD (460.67 kg) pastures, because of the higher daily weight gain (1.37 vs. 0.82 and 0.64 kg, respectively). Feedlot-finished animals had a greater carcass gain (0.91 kg animal-1 day-1), resulting in a higher carcass weight (296.47 kg), higher thickness of external fat (5.42 mm), weight and percentage of side cut (17.88 kg and 12.20%), and weight and percentage of fat in the carcass (74.50 kg and 25.22%). However, no difference was observed for the metric and developmental characteristics of the carcass, which allowed good quality carcasses to be obtained, independent of the strategies evaluated. Feedlot-finished Zebu cattle provide heavier and bulky carcasses, leading to higher revenue per marketed carcass.(AU)

Avaliou-se o desempenho e as características da carcaça de 18 bovinos anelorados terminados durante 93 dias em confinamento ou semiconfinamento. No semiconfinamento foram adotadas duas estratégias de diferimento da pastagem, com 40 dias (40DD) e 80 dias (80DD). A ração dos animais confinados foi composta de 24% de silagem de capim Urochloa spp. e 76% de concentrado, na matéria seca, fornecida à vontade duas vezes ao dia, enquanto que os animais em pastejo receberam 4 kg de concentrado animal-1 dia-1. O peso final em jejum dos animais confinados (534,92 kg) foi superior aos semiconfinados em pastagem 40DD (475,33 kg) e 80DD (460,67 kg), devido ao maior ganho de peso diário (1,37 vs. 0,82 e 0,64 kg, respectivamente). Animais terminados em confinamento tiveram maior ganho de carcaça (0,91 kg animal-1 dia-1), determinando maior peso de carcaça quente (296,47 kg), com melhor acabamento de gordura (5,42 mm), peso e porcentagem do costilhar (17,88 kg e 12,20%) e peso e porcentagem de gordura na carcaça (74,50 kg e 25,22%). Contudo, não se observou diferença para as características métricas e de desenvolvimento da carcaça, possibilitando obter carcaças com boa qualidade independente das estratégias avaliadas. A terminação de bovinos anelorados em confinamento proporciona carcaças mais pesadas e com melhor acabamento, permitindo maior receita por carcaça comercializada.(AU)

Effect of hoof trimming on milk yield in dairy cows with foot disease

Backround: Milk is produced at the cost of other metabolic processes in the body and high milk yield has been associated with lameness and claw lesions. Lameness has also been associated with a decrease in milk yield. In the past, claw disorders and lameness in dairy cattle have been an increasing problem of the modern dairy industry. Hoof trimming is performed to prevent hoof lesions and improve gait by correction and maintenance of the hoof symmetry and shape. Lameness caused by hoof disorders can be treated by correct hoof trimming. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that one-time claw trimming affect the milk production in dairy cattle with hoof disorders on commercial dairy farms. Materials, Methods & Results: Milk yield level was examined before and after claw trimming in dairy cattle. Eighteen Holstein dairy cows were examined on a commercial dairy farm. Calving number, calving time, lactation number, lactation stage, culling date and milk yield in liters were detected from farm recording system. All cows were visual signs of claw disorders or lameness. Their hooves had not been were trimmed for several years. Trimming technique included leveling the 2 claws, aiming for symmetric bulbs. The axial and abaxial walls were both intended to be parts of the bearing surface and the 2 claws were trimmed flat and balanced with each other. The caudal two-thirds [...](AU)

Effect of hoof trimming on milk yield in dairy cows with foot disease

Backround: Milk is produced at the cost of other metabolic processes in the body and high milk yield has been associated with lameness and claw lesions. Lameness has also been associated with a decrease in milk yield. In the past, claw disorders and lameness in dairy cattle have been an increasing problem of the modern dairy industry. Hoof trimming is performed to prevent hoof lesions and improve gait by correction and maintenance of the hoof symmetry and shape. Lameness caused by hoof disorders can be treated by correct hoof trimming. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that one-time claw trimming affect the milk production in dairy cattle with hoof disorders on commercial dairy farms. Materials, Methods & Results: Milk yield level was examined before and after claw trimming in dairy cattle. Eighteen Holstein dairy cows were examined on a commercial dairy farm. Calving number, calving time, lactation number, lactation stage, culling date and milk yield in liters were detected from farm recording system. All cows were visual signs of claw disorders or lameness. Their hooves had not been were trimmed for several years. Trimming technique included leveling the 2 claws, aiming for symmetric bulbs. The axial and abaxial walls were both intended to be parts of the bearing surface and the 2 claws were trimmed flat and balanced with each other. The caudal two-thirds [...]

Avaliação da metodologia holandesa de apara dos cascos para bovinos da raça Nelore e fatores de influência na morfometria dos dígitos

A apara do casco é a principal forma de prevenir as doenças podais dos bovinos, ela pode ser realizada por diferentes métodos, sendo o holandês o mais utilizado. Recentemente, estudos evidenciaram que a métrica tradicional é inapropriada, podendo causar a diminuição excessiva da espessura da sola, e expor o córium dos dígitos. O presente estudo teve três objetivos: 1 - determinar o perfil dos casqueadores que atuam na área da podologia no Brasil; 2 - verificar se há associação entre a apara e o surgimento de sola fina; 3 - determinar se peso e idade dos bovinos da raça Nelore influenciam nas dimensões do casco e do córium. No primeiro estudo, confeccionou-se questionário on-line que foi enviado para casqueadores por meio de mídias sociais e e-mail. Para o segundo objetivo, parâmetros morfométricos de 12 bovinos foram avaliados, antes e após a apara pelo método holandês. Adicionalmente, avaliação da espessura da sola foi realizada por meio de imagens tomográficas nestes mesmos momentos. Para o terceiro objetivo, os dígitos de 46 bovinos foram separados em dois grupos, de acordo com a idade e com o peso dos animais, e mensurou a morfometria dos dígitos. As dimensões do córium, comprimento linear na muralha e a sua espessura na pinça e no talão, foram avaliados por imagens tomográficas. Os resultados mostram que os casqueadores são adultos jovens, graduados, que atuam no eixo sudeste-sul do país, trabalhando principalmente com gado leiteiro. Apenas metade dos entrevistados utilizam algum método padronizado para o desbaste do casco, sendo o holandês o mais utilizado. Um terço dos questionados notam alterações na sola durante a apara, como sangramentos e/ou sola fina, porém não houve associação significativa entre métodos de apara e ausência de lesões na sola (p = 0,2). A má infraestrutura das propriedades foi apontada como o maior entrave para a prevenção das doenças podais. Em relação aos dados morfométricos obtidos neste estudo, antes da apara do casco, houve diferença significativa entre os comprimentos da muralha (p < 0,0001), e observou-se que o dígito medial pélvico é o de menor morfometria (p <0,05). Após a apara, o comprimento da muralha dos dígitos foi semelhante (p > 0,05), e o dígito medial manteve-se como o menor. As imagens tomográficas revelaram que antes da apara apenas seis dígitos apresentaram sola fina, enquanto após o desbaste 22 exibiram desgaste excessivo. Houve associação significativa entre realização da apara pelo método holandês e sola fina (p = 0,017). Por fim, algumas variáveis morfométricas do casco e córium revelaram correlação significante com a idade e o peso e as comparações morfométricas e tomográficas entre os grupos comprovaram o observado, sendo possível confeccionar modelo matemático para predizer o comprimento mínimo da muralha dado por: 63,8 + 0,051 (idade) + 0,019 (peso). O estudo revelou que o método holandês pode ocasionar sola fina nos bovinos Nelore e, portanto, para evitar estas intercorrências, características como idade e peso dos bovinos deverão ser verificadas para realizar a apara segura e evitar lesões.

Claw trimming is the main approach to prevent claw diseases in cattle. It can be performed by different techniques; however, the Dutch method is the most common used. Recently, some studies have shown that the metric determined by this method is inappropriate and can cause the sole thickness and expose the digital corium. The aims of the present study were: 1 - determine the profile of Brazilian trimmers; 2 - verify if there is an association between claw trimming and thin sole; 3 - determine whether the weight and age of Nellore cattle influence the dimensions of the claw horn and corium. For the first study, an online questionnaire was sent to trimmers through social media and e-mail. For the second, morphometric data from 12 bovines were evaluated, before and after claw trimming according to the Dutch method. The sole thickness was assessed by tomographic images at the same moments. In the third study, digits from 46 cows were separated in to two groups, according to the age and weight. Morphometric analysis of the digits and linear length of the corium on the wall horn, as well as the thickness of the corium in apex and below flexor tuberosity were evaluated by tomographic images. The results show that, in general, the trimmers are young adults, undergraduate, and work mostly with dairy cattle, in South and Southeast Brazil. Only half of the interviewees use a standardized method for claw trimming, being the Dutch method the most used. One-third of interviewed notice changes in the sole during hoof trimming, such as bleeding and / or thin sole, but there was no significant association between trimming methods and absence of lesions on the sole (p = 0.2). Poor infrastructure of the farms was identified as the major problem for the prevention of claw diseases. Regarding to the morphometric data, there was a significant difference between the lengths of the wall horn (p <0.0001) before claw trimming, and it was observed that medial hind digit presented lower claw dimension (p <0.05). After trimming, the length of the wall horn of digits was similar (p> 0.05), and medial hind digits were the smallest. Tomographic images revealed that six digits showed thin soles before trimming, while 22 digits presented sole thickness after claw trimming. There was a significant association between trimming using the Dutch method and thin soles (p = 0.017). In the last study, some morphometric variables of the claw horn and corium revealed a significant correlation with age and weight, supported by the morphometric and tomographic comparisons between the groups. Then, a significant model (p <0.0001) was developed to predict the minimum length of the horn wall: 63.8 + 0.051 (age) + 0.019 (weight). This study revealed that Dutch method can cause thin soles in Nellore cattle. Therefore, in order to avoid these negative complications, characteristics such as age and weight should be verified and considered to perform safe claw trimming and avoid lameness.

Slaughter weights on animal performance, carcass commercial cuts and meat characteristics of cull cows / Pesos de abate sobre o desempenho animal, cortes comerciais da carcaça e características da carne de vacas de descarte

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of slaughter weight on animal performance, carcass commercial cuts and meat characteristics of Purunã cows feedlot finished. We used 28 cull cows with 68.02±17.36 months of age slaughtered at different weights (461, 476, 434 and 522 kg). The experimental design was completely randomized with four treatments (slaughter weight) and seven replicates (animals). The dry matter intake, expressed as kg d-1 and % of body weight, presented quadratic variation with increasing slaughter weight, with the highest values observed for slaughter weight of 461 kg. The average daily gain decreased linearly, whereas the absolute weight of forequarter, short ribs, and pistol cut linearly increased by the advance of slaughter weight. In relative terms only the short ribs was changed by increase slaughter weight, increasing linearly. Between the proportions of meat cuts prepared for commercialization, linear increases were observed for the chuck and striploin. Increasing slaughter weight promoted linear increases in the scores of color, marbling and palatability, but did not alter the score of tenderness of the meat. The increase of slaughter weight of cull cows of the Purunã breed reduces animal performance, increasing the losses by trimming fat, with important benefits only for the meat palatability.(AU))

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito do peso de abate sobre o desempenho animal, cortes comerciais da carcaça e características da carne de vacas Purunã terminadas em confinamento. Foram utilizadas 28 vacas de descarte com 68,02±17,36 meses de idade abatidas com pesos distintos (434; 461; 476 e 522 kg). O delineamento experimental foi o inteiramente casualizado com quatro tratamentos (pesos de abate) e sete repetições (animais). O consumo de matéria seca, expresso em kg dia-1 e % do peso corporal, apresentou variação quadrática em função do avanço do peso de abate, sendo os maiores valores observados para o peso de abate de 461 kg. O ganho de peso médio diário diminuiu linearmente, enquanto que o peso absoluto do dianteiro, ponta de agulha e traseiro especial aumentou linearmente com avanço do peso de abate. Em termos relativos somente o corte ponta de agulha foi alterado pelo avanço do peso de abate, aumentando linearmente. Entre as proporções dos cortes cárneos preparados para comercialização, elevações lineares foram verificadas para o acém e contra filé. O aumento do peso de abate promoveu incrementos lineares nos escores de coloração, marmoreio e palatabilidade, mas não alterou a maciez da carne. O avanço do peso de abate de vacas de descarte da raça Purunã reduz o desempenho animal, aumentando as perdas pelo recorte de gordura...(AU)

Effects of dexketoprofen trometamol on stress and oxidative stress in cattle undergoing claw trimming

Background: Animal welfare raised a great deal of attention and associated with ethical and moral aspects. In animal,evaluation of wellness is a great tackle and has a complex entity. Pain and stress are closely associated with poor animalwelfare and animal suffering should be removed in order to achieve wellness. Today, good welfare in animal is definedas the absence of stress, thus most of the welfare studies focused on it. The aim of study was to investigate the effect ofdexketoprofen trometamol (DEXT) on stress and oxidative stress in cattle undergoing claw trimming.Materials, Methods & Results: This study was conducted on 14 female dairy cows aged 3 - 6 old years with mean bodyweight of 475 kg (7 Simmental, 5 Holstein Friesian and 2 Montafon). Each cow was randomly allocated into two groups.DEXT group (n = 8) was administered intravenously DEXT at a dose of 2 mg/kg body weight 30 min before claw trimming.Control group (n = 6) was administered physiological saline at the same dose 30 min before procedure was carried out.Trimming was performed using a mobile walk-in crush where the head of cow was restrained by a stanchion and the bodysupported thoracic and thigh belts in all procedures. The heart rate was measured by auscultation and respiratory rate bycounting thoracic excursions before and after claw trimming. Blood samples were collected by jugular venepuncture intoglass tube with gel, at 30 min before claw trimming and 15 and 30 min after trimming for measuring serum cortisol, nitricoxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant activity (AOA). Serum cortisol concentrations were determinedby ELISA with used commercial bovine ELISA kit. In both groups no difference was observed in heart rate however therespiratory rate at 15 and 30 min was significantly different (P < 0.05). The heart rate was increased at 15 min after clawtrimming...(AU)

Effects of dexketoprofen trometamol on stress and oxidative stress in cattle undergoing claw trimming

Background: Animal welfare raised a great deal of attention and associated with ethical and moral aspects. In animal,evaluation of wellness is a great tackle and has a complex entity. Pain and stress are closely associated with poor animalwelfare and animal suffering should be removed in order to achieve wellness. Today, good welfare in animal is definedas the absence of stress, thus most of the welfare studies focused on it. The aim of study was to investigate the effect ofdexketoprofen trometamol (DEXT) on stress and oxidative stress in cattle undergoing claw trimming.Materials, Methods & Results: This study was conducted on 14 female dairy cows aged 3 - 6 old years with mean bodyweight of 475 kg (7 Simmental, 5 Holstein Friesian and 2 Montafon). Each cow was randomly allocated into two groups.DEXT group (n = 8) was administered intravenously DEXT at a dose of 2 mg/kg body weight 30 min before claw trimming.Control group (n = 6) was administered physiological saline at the same dose 30 min before procedure was carried out.Trimming was performed using a mobile walk-in crush where the head of cow was restrained by a stanchion and the bodysupported thoracic and thigh belts in all procedures. The heart rate was measured by auscultation and respiratory rate bycounting thoracic excursions before and after claw trimming. Blood samples were collected by jugular venepuncture intoglass tube with gel, at 30 min before claw trimming and 15 and 30 min after trimming for measuring serum cortisol, nitricoxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant activity (AOA). Serum cortisol concentrations were determinedby ELISA with used commercial bovine ELISA kit. In both groups no difference was observed in heart rate however therespiratory rate at 15 and 30 min was significantly different (P < 0.05). The heart rate was increased at 15 min after clawtrimming...

EFEITO DO INTERVALO ENTRE FERRAGEAMENTOS EM MENSURAÇÕES RADIOGRÁFICAS DOS CASCOS DOS MEMBROS TORÁCICOS DE EQUINOS HÍGIDOS DA RAÇA CRIOULA

As doenças que envolvem os cascos dos equinos são, geralmente, a causa mais comum de claudicação nesta espécie e estão associadas a conformação do dígito. O crescimento do casco que ocorre no intervalo entre os ferrageamentos altera sua morfologia e, portanto, as forças internas que atuam sobre as estruturas anatômicas. A avaliação objetiva do equilíbrio do casco pode ser realizada através de radiografias que permitem a aferição de diversas medidas angulares e lineares. Este estudo investigou como estas medidas são afetadas em um intervalo de quatro (S4) e de oito (S8) semanas após o ferrageamento em uma população de cavalos hígidos da raça Crioula que foram ferrageados por um mesmo profissional experiente. Usando um programa computacional específico, foram realizadas 18 medidas na projeção LM e 12 na projeção DP para investigar o efeito do crescimento do casco ao longo do tempo. As alterações encontradas puderam ser estatisticamente verificadas em 28 parâmetros do total de 30 aferidos, sendo que, em apenas seis não houve diferença significativa já na quarta semanas após o casqueamento. As medidas que sofreram a maior variação expressam, principalmente, o comportamento do crescimento da região da pinça do casco. O ângulo do casco e da falange distal diminui (S4 e S8) e o ângulo da articulação interfalângica distal aumenta (principalmente na S8) em comparação com o início do experimento. Há um aumento expressivo da distância da falange distal (FD) à pinça, da distância da FD ao ponto do breakover, da distância da FD ao solo e da profundidade da sola (S4 e S8), que são medidas que reproduzem a posição da FD em relação ao estojo córneo. Os resultados sugerem que um período de tempo menor entre ferrageamentos, mais próximo às quatro semanas, pode diminuir o efeito cumulativo do crescimento do casco e limitar as mudanças drásticas que ocorrem quando o casco é aparado em intervalos maiores.

Equine hoof pathologies are, generally, the most common cause of lameness in this species and are associated with the digit conformation. Hoof growth that occurs in the interval between shoeing alters its morphology and, therefore, the internal forces that act on the anatomical structures. Objective evaluation of hoof balance can be done through radiographs, which allows the analysis of several angular and linear measurements. This study investigated how these measurements are affected at an interval of four- and eight-weeks post-shoeing in a population of healthy Criollo horses that were shoed by the same experienced farrier. Using a specific software, 18 measurements were made in the lateromedial projection and 12 in the dorsopalmar projection to investigate the effect on hoof growth over time. The alterations found could be statistically verified in 28 of a total of 30 parameters, and in only six there was no significant difference in the four weeks post -shoeing. The measures that had the greatest variation mainly expressed the pattern of growth activity of the toe region. The angle of the hoof and distal phalanx decreases (at week four and eight) and the angle of the distal interphalangeal joint increases (mostly at week eight). There is an increase in the distance between the distal phalanx (DP) to the toe, the distance between the DP to the breakover point, the distance from the DP to the ground and the depth of the sole (at week four and eight), which are measures that reproduce the relationship of the position of the DP to the hoof capsule. The results suggest that shoeing interval that is closer to four weeks may decrease the cumulative effect of hoof growth and limit the drastic changes that occur when the hoof is trimmed at longer intervals.

Prevalência e distribuição de lesões podais em vacas leiteiras criadas em free stall

A claudicação é uma crescente preocupação na bovinocultura leiteira e geralmente está atrelada ao tipo de criação dos animais e aos fatores de risco, principalmente aqueles de origem ambiental, nutricional e genético. Como consequência, há a ocorrência de lesões podais, causada pela má distribuição de peso em vacas claudicantes, provocando dor, o que diminui o bem estar e resulta em grandes perdas de produtividade no rebanho. O objetivo deste estudo é estimar a prevalência de claudicação e a ocorrência e distribuição de lesões de casco em rebanhos leiteiros criados em sistema de free stall, assim como avaliar sua correlação com os principais fatores de risco. Os fatores foram avaliados em questionário mediante questões como se é realizado o casqueamento preventivo na propriedade, uso de pedilúvio, dimensões e tipo de cama utilizada, o tipo de piso e a frequência de limpeza, o tempo de permanência dos animais em sala de espera, bem como qual o principal problema sanitário e qual a maior causa de descarte involuntário. Foram incluídas no estudo 10 propriedades, distribuídas em 7 municípios do Rio Grande do Sul. As vacas foram examinadas quanto ao seu escore de condição corporal (ECC) e escore de locomoção (EL). Foram realizados o exame de casco, a classificação de lesão e o casqueamento dos animais. Dos 491 animais examinados, 37,2% apresentaram claudicação e 36% destes apresentaram lesões podais, totalizando 465 lesões, independente do número destas por animal, sendo 81,4% delas observadas nos membros posteriores e 18,6% nos membros torácicos. Das lesões nos membros, 47,1% foram de origem infecciosa e 52,9% não infecciosa. As principais lesões foram úlcera de sola (31,6%), dermatite digital (30,3%), sola delgada (12%) e dermatite interdigital (11,2%). Vacas com idade entre 4 a 6 anos apresentaram maior concentração de lesões e grau de EL. Apenas a questão referente ao uso de pedilúvio não apresentou associação com as lesões podais, já as demais questões confirmam que a ocorrência de lesão está associada aos fatores predisponentes questionados. As propriedades que realizam casqueamento preventivo reduziram em 55% as chances de claudicação em seu rebanho. Os resultados obtidos revelam que vacas leiteiras criadas em sistema free stall apresentam uma alta prevalência de claudicação e de afecções podais. Esses dados devem ser levados em consideração quando da alteração do manejo de criação destes animais, visando reduzir as expressivas perdas econômicas no rebanho.

The prevalence of lameness is a growing concern in dairy cattle and is usually related to the type of animal rearing and to risk factors, especially those of environmental, nutritional and genetic origin. As a consequence, there is the occurrence of foot lesions, caused by poor weight distribution in lame cows, causing pain, which decreases welfare and results in large losses of productivity in the herd. The objective of this study is to estimate the prevalence of lameness and the occurrence and distribution of foot lesions in dairy herds kept in a free stall system, as well as to evaluate their correlation with the main risk factors. The factors were evaluated in a questionnaire through questions such as whether preventive casing is carried out on the property, use of foot bath, dimensions and type of bed used, type of floor and cleaning frequency, length of stay in the waiting room, as well as which is the main health problem and which is the greatest cause of involuntary discard. The study included 10 farms distributed in 7 cities of Rio Grande do Sul. The Cows were examined for their body condition score (BCS) and locomotion score (LS). The foot examination, lesion classification and the hoof trimming of the animals were performed. Of the 491 animals, 37.2% presented lameness and 465 foot lesions, 81.4% of which were observed in the hind limbs and 18.6% in the thoracic limbs. Of the lesions in the limbs, 47.1% were of infectious origin and 52.9% were noninfectious. The main lesions were sole ulcer (31.6%), digital dermatitis (30.3%), thin soles (12%) and interdigital dermatitis (11.2%). Cows aged 4 to 6 years had a higher concentration of lesions and degree of LS. Only the question regarding the use of foot bath was not associated with the foot injuries, since the other questions confirm that the occurrence of injury is associated with the predisposing factors questioned. The properties that perform preventive hoof trimming reduced in 55% the chances of lameness in their herd. The results show that dairy cows raised in a free stall system have a high prevalence of lameness and of foot lesions. These data should be taken into account when altering the livestock management of these animals, in order to reduce the significant economic losses in the herd.

Eficiência dos métodos de descontaminação de carcaças de frangos de corte

A depenagem e a evisceração podem contribuir para a contaminação das carcaças, havendo basicamente duas formas de descontaminação visível de pequenas áreas: o corte com faca (refile) ou o sistema de lavagem de carcaças. O trabalho foi conduzido com objetivo de avaliar os índices de contaminação visual de carcaças e partes de carcaças de frango de corte abatidas em estabelecimentos sob Serviço de Inspeção Federal (SIF), e a eficiência do sistema de lavagem de carcaças em substituição ao refile. Os relatórios de dados de condenações parciais e totais ocorridas em cinco estabelecimentos sob SIF que abatem aves no MS, lançados no Sistema de Informações Gerais do Serviço de Inspeção Federal (SIGSIF) no período de agosto de 2016 a agosto de 2017 foram analisados. O trabalho foi dividido em três partes: análise do comportamento dos dados de abate e condenações por contaminação, considerando-se como tratamentos as estações do ano (inverno, outono, primavera e verão); a avaliação de redução de contaminação microbiológica antes e após o sistema de lavagem de 800 carcaças (400 que não passaram pelo chuveiro x 400 que passaram pelo chuveiro); e um ensaio experimental de lavagem de carcaças, em que foram avaliadas 20 carcaças em cada um dos cinco tratamentos: carcaças sem contaminação antes do chuveiro e do refile, carcaças sem contaminação após o chuveiro, carcaças com contaminação antes do chuveiro e do refile, carcaças com contaminação após o chuveiro e carcaças com contaminação após o refile. As estações do ano não influenciaram na quantidade e no peso das aves abatidas no Estado do Mato Grosso do Sul entre agosto de 2016 e agosto de 2017, bem como não houve diferenças em relação às condenações por contaminação, sugerindo uniformização dos sistemas produtivos e do Serviço de Inspeção Federal (SIF) quanto à classificação destas condenações. Conclui-se que o sistema de lavagem de carcaças avaliado se mostrou efetivo na redução de contaminação microbiológica. Ao se avaliar o sistema de lavagem de carcaças e o refile separadamente, não houve diferença significativa, inclusive em relação às carcaças contaminadas antes dos processos de descontaminação.

Plucking and evisceration can contribute to the contamination of the carcasses, with basically two forms of visible decontamination of small areas: knife cutting (refill) or carcass washing system. Therefore, this work was carried out with the objective of evaluate the visual contamination rates of carcasses and parts of carcasses slaughtered in establishments under Federal Inspection Service (SIF) and the efficiency of the carcass washing system to replace the refill. The data report of partial and total convictions occurred in the five establishments under Federal Inspection that kill chickens in MS, launched in the General Information System of the Federal Inspection Service (SIGSIF) from August 2016 to August 2017 were analyzed. The work was divided in three parts: analysis of the behavior of the slaughtering data and condemnations by contamination, considering as treatments the seasons of the year (winter, autumn, spring and summer); the microbiological contamination reduction assessment before and after the lavage system of 800 carcasses (400 that did not go through the shower x 400 that went through the shower); and an experimental carcass washing test in which 20 carcasses were evaluated in each of the five treatments: carcasses without contamination prior to shower and refill, carcasses without contamination after shower, carcasses with contamination prior to shower and refill, carcasses with contamination after the shower and carcasses with contamination after the refill. The seasons of the year did not influence the quantity and weight of birds slaughtered in the State of Mato Grosso do Sul between August 2016 and August 2017, as well as there are no differences regarding contamination convictions, suggesting uniformity of the production systems and the Service (SIF) regarding the classification of these convictions. The conclusion was that the carcass washing system evaluated was effective in the reduction of microbiological contamination and, when evaluating the carcass washing system and the refill separately, there was no significant difference, even in relation to the contaminated carcass before the decontamination processes.

Biometria do equilíbrio podal em equinos de tração pertencentes ao Programa de Extensão "Amigo do Carroceiro" do Centro de Ciências Agroveterinárias da Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina no município de Lages/SC, Brasil

The hooves of 44 horses registered in the Extension Program "Amigo do Carroceiro" do Centro de Ciências Agroveterinárias da Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (CAV-UDESC) were measured. The horses perform the function of traction in Lages, SC. The parameters evaluated were the frog length and width, lateral and medial heel length, angle and toe length and sole length and width. The following differences were observed: asymmetry between contralateral hoof of hind and forelimbs, toe angle overly acute, differences between hind and forelimbs in 40.9% and 34.1% respectively, bilateral contraction of the frog in the forelimbs (100%), right hind limb (70.5%) and left hind limb (66.0%). Medial-lateral hoof imbalance in the forelimbs (4.6 to 6.8%) and hind limbs (4.6 to 13.6%). Positive correlations were obtained (0.3 to 0.7) between body weight, sole length and width. Differences were observed between the hooves shoes and unshod, which were assigned to wear unshod hooves. It was also observed negligence of the wagoner about hoof care and frequency of trimming and shoeing, which was revealed by the high percentage of animals with loss of horseshoes.

Foram mensurados os cascos de 44 equinos cadastrados no Programa de Extensão "Amigo do Carroceiro" do Centro de Ciências Agroveterinárias da Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (CAV-UDESC) que desempenham a função de tração no município de Lages, SC. Os parâmetros avaliados foram comprimento e largura da ranilha, altura dos talões lateral e medial, comprimentos e ângulo da pinça e largura e comprimento da sola. Foram identificadas as seguintes alterações: assimetria entre cascos contralaterais torácicos e pélvicos, ângulo da pinça agudo (49,1±5,1) para membros torácicos e (51,8±4,3) para membros pélvicos, diferença de angulações em 40,9% e 34,1% para cascos dos membros torácicos e pélvicos, respectivamente, contração da ranilha bilateral nos membros torácicos (100%), membros pélvicos direitos (70,5%) e nos esquerdos (66,0%). Desequilíbrio médio-lateral (4,6 a 6,8%) nos membros torácicos e (4,6 a 13,6%) nos membros pélvicos. Obtiveram-se correlações positivas (0,3 a 0,7) entre peso corporal, comprimento e largura da sola. Observaram-se diferenças entre os cascos de animais ferrados e desferrados, as quais foram atribuídas ao desgaste dos cascos desferrados. Também se observou negligência dos carroceiros quanto ao cuidado com os cascos e frequência de casqueamento e ferrageamento, os quais foram determinados através da alta porcentagem de animais com ferraduras perdidas.