The Effect of Space Allowance During Pre-Slaughter Transport of European Quail Breeders on Welfare, Carcass Traits and Meat Quality

The objective was to evaluate whether space allowance during pre-slaughter transport of European breeding quail affects welfare, carcass traits and meat quality. A total of 248 quails (body weight = 344.90 ± 2.09 g) were used. During pre-transport, the quails were fasted for 5 hours and 30 minutes. The poultry were caught and placed in plastic transport crates with an area of 0.40 m2. The treatments consisted of a different space allowance in each crate: 22, 28, 34 or 40 quails per crate. Immediately upon arrival at the slaughterhouse, the quails were stunned. During bleeding, blood samples were collected. The carcasses were individually weighed. The meat quality was measured. Data were analysed using the effects of space allowance during transport of quails and pickup truck as dependent variables. Death on arrival increased as the space allowance in transport crates decreased (p=0.08). Glucose and uric acid levels were not significantly different between groups (p≥0.14). The cold carcass weight presented the maximum value when the crates contained 31 quails (p=0.03). The meat pH, intensity of red, intensity of yellow and cooking losses were not different between groups (p≥0.12). The meat lightness value presented the maximum value when the crates contained 31 quails (p=0.04). In view of the above, the number of European breeding quails transported in crates must not exceed 30 animals.(AU)

Diferentes densidades de alojamento de galinhas poedeiras em gaiolas e suas respectivas produção, qualidade de ovos e escore de penas / Different housing densities of laying hens in cages and their production, egg quality andfeather score

As poedeiras criadas em sistema degaiolas tem seu bem-estar afetado devido ao menor espaço disponível para elas, o que vai de encontro da crescente pressão por grande parte de consumidores preocupados com as condições em que essas aves são criadas. A consequência dessa menor densidade de alojamento sobre a produtividade, e a qualidade de vida da ave e dos ovos por elas produzidos deve ser avaliada. O objetivo desse estudo é avaliar a produção, qualidade de ovos, e bem-estar de galinhas poedeiras criadas em diferentes densidades de alojamentos em gaiolas. Às 28 semanas de idade, foram distribuídas, em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, 120 poedeiras leves da linhagem Novogen White, após debicagem, em 24 gaiolas com dimensões de 45 cm x 50cm, em três diferentes densidades de alojamento: 562,5 cm² /ave (quatro aves/gaiola), 450 cm² /ave (cinco aves/gaiola) e 375 cm² /ave(seis aves/gaiola), com 8 repetições cada. As dietas experimentais foram isoproteicas e isoenergéticas, formuladas à base de milho e farelo de soja. O período experimental será compreendido por seis ciclos de 28 dias cada. As variáveis analisadas foram: peso do ovo, índice de gema, unidade Haugh, pigmentação da gema, porcentagem dos componentes dos ovos e espessura de casca (em milímetros). Quando as aves atingiram 44 semanas de idade, foi realizada a medição do escore de penas. Foram avaliadas 40 galinhaspor tratamento, em quatro regiões: peito, dorso, asas e posterior. Essa análise consiste emcategorizar as aves de acordo com três diferentes escores, de acordo com o tamanho da área de ausência de penas em cada região. Espera-se que a redução da densidade de alojamento das galinhas nas gaiolas propicie maior produção com melhor qualidade dos ovos, promovendo também melhor bem-estar das aves.(AU)

The well-beingof laying hens raised in cages is affected due to the smaller space available for them,which is in line with the growing pressure from a large number of consumers concerned about the conditions in which these birds are raised.The consequence of thislower housing density on productivity and the quality of life of the bird andthe eggs produced by them must be evaluated. The aim of this study is to evaluate the production, egg quality, and welfare of laying hens reared in different housing densities in cages. At 28 weeks of age, 120 light Novogen White laying hens were distributed, after beak trimming, in24 cages measuring 45 cm x 50 cm, in three different housing densities: 562.5 cm²/bird (four birds/cage), 450 cm²/bird (five birds/cage) and 375 cm²/bird (six birds/cage), with 8 repetitions each. The experimental diets were isoproteic and isoenergetic, based on corn and soybean meal. The trial period will comprise six cycles of 28 days each. The variables analyzed were: egg weight, yolk index, Haugh unit, yolk pigmentation, percentage of egg components and shell thickness (in millimeters). When the birds reached 44 weeks of age, the feather score was measured. Forty chickens per treatment were evaluated in four regions: chest, back, wings and hindquarters. This analysis consists of categorizing the birds according to three different scores, according to thesize of the area without feathers in each region. It is expected that the reduction in the hen housing density in the cages will lead to higher production with better egg quality, also promoting better hen welfare.(AU)

Performance, physical egg quality, and economic index of laying hens under different rearing systems / Desempenho, qualidade do ovo e índice econômico de poedeiras em diferentes sistemas de criação

The objective was to evaluate the performance, physical egg quality (weight and gravity), and economic index of laying hens reared in cage and cage-free systems. A total of 312 40-week-old Hy-line brown laying hens were distributed in a fully randomized design, split into two treatments (cage-free and cage) with 12 replicates in each system. We housed 144 birds in galvanized-wire cages (12 birds each) and 168 birds in a cage-free system in boxes with wood shaving bedding (14 birds each). The experiment lasted 112 days and divided into four 28-day periods. Regarding performance, feed intake (g) and feed conversion (g/g) of birds reared in the cage-free system were higher (p<0.0001) than the cage system, but no differences were observed (p>0.05) for the other performance parameters and also for egg quality. As for economic index, egg production in the cage-free system was higher (p<0.0001) than the cage system. In conclusion, birds reared in the cage-free system have higher feed consumption but worse feed conversion, increasing egg production cost compared to caged birds; however, there are no changes in egg production and physical quality.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar o desempenho, qualidade de ovos e índice econômico de poedeiras semipesadas criadas em sistemas cage-free e em gaiolas. Foram utilizadas 312 poedeiras da linhagem Hy Line Brown, com 40 semanas de idade, distribuídas em um delineamento inteiramente casualisado (DIC), em dois tratamentos (cage-free e gaiolas) com 12 repetições em cada sistema, sendo 144 aves alojadas em gaiolas de arame galvanizado com 12 aves em cada gaiola e 168 aves alojadas em sistema cage-free, em boxes sobre cama de maravalha com 14 aves em cada repetição. O experimento teve duração de 112 dias, divididos em quatro períodos de 28 dias. Nos parâmetros de desempenho, o consumo de ração (g/aves/dia) e a conversão alimentar (g/g) foi maior (P<0,0001) nas aves criadas no sistema cage-free comparado ao sistema de gaiolas, não sendo observado diferença (P>0,05) nos demais parâmetros de desempenho e também na qualidade de ovos. No índice econômico, a produção de ovos em sistema cage-free apresentou maior valor (P<0,0001) em relação ao sistema de gaiola. Conclui-se que as aves criadas em sistema cage-free apresentam maior consumo de ração, pior conversão alimentar ocasionando um maior custo nos ovos em relação às aves criadas em gaiolas, no entanto não há alteração na produção e qualidade dos ovos.(AU)

Physical and environmental characteristics of the compost barn system and its effects on the physical integrity, reproduction and milk production of dairy cattle: a scoping review

Compost barn (CB), although recent in Brazil, is increasingly gaining popularity among the intensive breeding systems in the dairy sector. This system promises to offer several advantages to producers and animals: such as providing an environment in which milk production is increased and the physical integrity of cattle is improved, reducing mastitis episodes, and promoting thermal comfort for animals. Another factor that highlights CB concerning other intensive systems is the composting process, generated by the deposition of carbon-rich materials (bedding) with nitrogen sources (urine and feces) from animals. For the full benefits of this composting to be achieved, management, especially of bedding, must be carried out correctly, considering the development requirements of the compost, the use of quality organic material, adequate ventilation, and an ideal rate of animal capacity, so that the generation of heat occurs efficiently. However, there is a general lack of information about the CB system. Hence, there is an increasing need for data surveys of Brazilian regions to compare the diversity of materials used in bedding, assessing energy efficiency and performance over time. Therefore, this bibliographical review addressed the main points of the CB system approach, considering that studies such as this are consistently relevant for rural producers, facilitating decisions regarding the implementation and management of the CB system on their farms.

Bem-estar dos organismos aquáticos e protocolos de avaliação para aquicultura / Welfare of aquatic organisms and assessment protocols for aquaculture

Peixes, anfíbios, répteis, moluscos cefalópodes e crustáceos decápodes são sencientes, e por isso, procedimentos de cultivo e de abate desses animais precisam atender aos critérios de bem-estar. Protocolos de bem-estar têm sido propostos para espécies da aquicultura de relevância econômica trançando novos rumos para atividade, mas infelizmente na maioria das propriedades brasileiras, não são adotados. Nesta revisão, contém informações sobre o cenário atual e os métodos de avaliação de bem-estar dos organismos aquáticos disponíveis na literatura científica, a fim de contribuir para a implantação de métodos, processos e estruturas que garantam o bom estado fisiológico e comportamental durante a vida e morte dos animais em cativeiro. Os dados disponíveis indicam que o estresse, a sanidade, as condições nutricionais e os métodos de insensibilização são os principais indicadores de bem-estar na aquicultura. Portanto, é imprescindível garantir estruturas adequadas ao sistema de produção, protocolos de vacinação, dietas balanceadas compostas principalmente por fontes protéicas de qualidade, depuração pré-abate e métodos de insensibilização que levam à perda de consciência imediata.

Fish, amphibians, reptiles, cephalopod molluscs and decapod crustaceans are sentient, so these animals' cultivation and slaughter procedures must meet welfare criteria. Welfare protocols have been proposed for aquaculture species of economic relevance, tracing new directions for the activity, but unfortunately, in most Brazilian properties, they are not adopted. This review contains information about the current scenario and the methods of evaluating the welfare of aquatic organisms available in the scientific literature to contribute to the implementation of methods, processes and structures that ensure a good physiological and behavioral state during the life and death of the animals in captivity. Available data indicate that stress, health, nutritional conditions and stunning methods are the main indicators of welfare in aquaculture. Therefore, ensuring adequate structures for the production system, vaccination protocols, balanced diets composed mainly of quality protein sources, pre-slaughter purification, and stunning methods that lead to immediate loss of consciousness is essential.

Estimate of the canine and feline population in a municipality of thenortheastsemi-arid: a view on responsible owner ship / Estimativa da População Canina e Felina em um município do Semiárido nordestino: uma visão sobre a guarda responsável

The quality of life of animals can have a direct impact on the health of the community where they live, therefore, knowledge of the number of animals and the conditions in which they are found is fundamental to the development of actions focused on Unique Health. Aiming to carry out a population estimate of dogs and cats, domiciled and semi-domiciled, in the urban area of Barra-BA and to analyze the population's knowledge about the themes "responsible guarding" and "animal welfare", it was carried out, in the period of August to November 2019, the application of a questionnaire in 365 residences. The results showed that for each inhabitant there were about 0.152 dogs and 0.108 cats, thus, it is estimated about 6,341 domesticated and semi-domesticated animals, being 3,707 dogs and 2,634 cats. The analysis of notions of animal welfare and responsible guarding showed that most tutors do not satisfactorily practice responsible guarding, especially for cats that, when compared to dogs, had lower rates of deworming and vaccination, as well as average age below that of the canine population. The number of animals with free access to the street was higher for felines. In terms of reproductive control, between the two species, only 3.6% were spayed. At the end of the work, it can be concluded that the cat: inhabitant proportion in the studied region is consistent with the national proportion. In contrast, the dog: inhabitant relationship was shown to be inferior when compared to national values. Furthermore, there was a need for educational actions within the scope of responsible custody.(AU)

A qualidade de vida dos animais pode ter impacto direto na saúde da comunidade onde vivem. Portanto, o conhecimento do número de animais e das condições em que se encontram é fundamental para o desenvolvimento de ações voltadas para a abordagem Saúde Única. Com o objetivo de realizar uma estimativa populacional de cães e gatos domiciliados e semidomiciliados na área urbana de Barra-BA, e analisar o conhecimento da população local sobre os temas "guarda responsável" e "bem-estar animal" foi realizado um questionário em 365 residências no período de agosto a novembro de 2019. Os resultados mostraram que para cada habitante havia cerca de 0,152 cães e 0,108 gatos. Assim, estima-se que existam cerca de 6.341 animais domesticados e semi-domesticados, sendo 3.707 cães e 2.634 gatos. A análise do conhecimento sobre bem-estar animal e guarda responsável mostrou que a maioria dos tutores não pratica a guarda responsável de forma satisfatória, principalmente para gatos. Quando comparados aos cães, os gatos apresentaram menores índices de vermifugação e vacinação e apresentaram idade média abaixo da população canina. O número de animais com livre acesso à rua foi maior para os felinos. Em termos de controle reprodutivo, entre as duas espécies, apenas 3,6% foram esterilizadas. Ao final do trabalho, pode-se concluir que a proporção gato por habitante na região estudada é condizente com a proporção nacional. Em contrapartida, a relação cão por habitante mostrou-se inferior aos valores nacionais.(AU)

Good practices in the rearing and maintenance of zebrafish (Danio rerio) in Brazilian laboratories / Boas práticas na criação e manutenção de zebrafish (Danio rerio) em laboratório no Brasil

Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) is a management quality control system that encompasses the organizational process and conditions under which non-clinical health and environmental studies are carried out. According to the World Health Organization, GLP must contain five topics: resources, characterization, rules, results, and quality control. The aim of this work is to address a review according to WHO standard to the implementation of Good Laboratory Practices in zebrafish (Danio rerio) facility. Considering that the promotion of one health (animal, human, and environmental) associated with an education plan, protocols, and records are fundamental to guarantee the safety and integrity of employees, animals and the environment as well as reliability in the results generated. In a way, Brazil still needs improvements related to the wellfare of aquatic organisms (national laws, international agreements, corporate programs, and others); especially in relation to its use in research and technological development. In this way, the implementation of GLPs provide valuable guidance for improving animal welfare and worker safety, facilitating the standardization of research.

As Boas Práticas de Laboratório (BPL) são um sistema de controle de qualidade gerencial que abrange o processo organizacional e as condições sob as quais os estudos não clínicos de saúde e meio ambiente são desenvolvidos. Conforme a Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS) as BPL devem conter cinco tópicos: recursos, caracterização, regras, resultados e controle de qualidade. O objetivo deste trabalho foi apresentar uma revisão conforme o padrão da OMS para a implementação das BPL em biotério de zebrafish. Considerando que a promoção da saúde única (animal, humana e ambiental) associada a um plano de educação, protocolos e registros são fundamentais para garantir a segurança e a integridade dos trabalhadores/pesquisadores, animais e meio ambiente assim como confiabilidade nos resultados gerados. De certa forma o Brasil ainda necessita de melhorias relacionadas ao bem-estar de organismos aquáticos (leis nacionais, acordos internacionais, programas corporativos e outros); especialmente em relação à utilização destes na pesquisa e desenvolvimento tecnológico. Desta forma, a implementação de BPL fornece uma orientação valiosa para a melhoria do bem-estar animal, e segurança do trabalhador vindo a facilitar a padronização da pesquisa.

Comportamento sócio-sexual e seus problemas no desempenho de touros / Social-sexual behaviour and its problems in performance of bulls

Esta revisão pretende discorrer sobre a estrutura social dos bovinos e sua relação com o comportamento sexual, a fisiologia reprodutiva e a fertilidade de touros a campo e em regime de coleta de sêmen, levando em consideração as diferentes fases do desenvolvimento sexual, os processos de aprendizado envolvidos e os efeitos do estresse social. À luz do conhecimento etológico serão feitas reflexões sobre o fitness (sucesso reprodutivo) de touros mantidos em manejo extensivo de criação e touros em Centrais de Coleta e Processamento de Sêmen (CCPS), a organização arquitetônica dos piquetes e área de coleta e a influência da proximidade de outros touros sobre a qualidade de todo o processo.(AU)

This review intends to discuss the cattle social structure and its relationship with sexual behavior, reproductive physiology, and fertility of bulls in the field and under semen collection regime, taking into account the distinct stages of sexual development, the learning processes involved and the effects of social stress. In the light of ethological science, we will reflect on the fitness (reproductive success) of bulls in extensive breeding management or bulls in Semen Collection and Processing Centers, their architectural organization of paddocks and collection area, and the influence of the proximity of other bulls on the quality of the entire process.(AU)

Check-All-That-Apply method for sensory characterization of pork from immunocastrated male pigs fed different oil sources

In the last decade, other quality attributes have emerged as the main aspects that impact pork consumers acceptance, such as environmentally friendly production, nutritional value, and animal welfare. This study applies a Check-All-That-Apply (CATA) questionnaire for sensory characterization of loins from genetically lean immunocastrated male pigs fed diets containing either a standard commercial diet with 1.5 % soybean oil (control) or 3 % oil from either soybean oil (SO), canola oil (CO), or fish oil (FO) during the growing-finishing phases. Twenty CATA attributes for loin samples were generated. We interviewed 101 consumers to select all the CATA terms that they considered suitable to characterize sensory attributes of longissimus lumborum muscle samples of pigs from each dietary treatment. The CATA results indicated differences among pork loin samples depending on the source and inclusion level of dietary oil. Loins from pigs fed 3 % SO were characterized by a higher frequency of the "juicy texture" attribute (p < 0.05) and a lower frequency of the "dry texture" attribute (p < 0.05) compared to loins from 3 % FO-fed pigs. Moreover, loins from pigs fed 3 % SO had a lower citation frequency of the "tasteless" attribute (p < 0.05) compared to loins from 3 % FO-fed pigs. The attributes "cooked pork meat-like taste", "juicy texture", "tender texture", and "brightness" were placed close to the overall liking. "Tender texture", "juicy texture", "pork meat-like" (odor and taste), and "cooked pork meat-like taste" attributes were considered drivers of liking. Feeding genetically lean immunocastrated male pigs with diets containing 3 % SO may be advisable from a pork sensory quality perspective.

Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) and genome editing to support a sustainable livestock

This article provides an overview of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) and genome engineering to improve livestock production systems for the contribution of global sustainability. Most ruminant production systems are conducted on grassland conditions, as is the case of South American countries that are leaders in meat and milk production worldwide with a well-established grass-feed livestock. These systems have many strengths from an environmental perspective and consumer preferences but requires certain improvements to enhance resource efficiency. Reproductive performance is one of the main challenges particularly in cow-calf operations that usually are conducted under adverse conditions and thus ART can make a great contribution. Fixed-time artificial insemination is applied in South America in large scale programs as 20 to 30% of cows receive this technology every year in each country, with greater calving rate and significant herd genetic gain occurred in this region. Sexed semen has also been increasingly implemented, enhancing resource efficiency by a) obtaining desired female replacement and improving animal welfare by avoiding newborn male sacrifice in dairy industry, or b) alternatively producing male calves for beef industry. In vitro embryo production has been massively applied, with this region showing the greatest number of embryos produced worldwide leading to significant improvement in herd genetics and productivity. Although the contribution of these technologies is considerable, further improvements will be required for a significant livestock transformation and novel biotechnologies such as genome editing are already available. Through the CRISPR/Cas-based system it is possible to enhance food yield and quality, avoid animal welfare concerns, overcome animal health threats, and control pests and invasive species harming food production. In summary, a significant enhancement in livestock productivity and resource efficiency can be made through reproductive technologies and genome editing, improving at the same time profitability for farmers, and global food security and sustainability.(AU)

Utilização de métodos alternativos como indutor de muda forçada em codornas poedeiras / Use of alternative methods as an inducer of forced molting in laying quail

Objetivou-se avaliar métodos alternativos de restrição alimentar qualitativa e quantitativa em comparação à técnica convencional de muda forçada em codornas japonesas para o segundo ciclo de produção. O período de muda forçada teve duração de 10 dias e dois períodos de 21 dias de pós-muda. Foram utilizadas 72 codornas japonesas fêmeas, emfinal de produção com 72 semanas deidade. As aves foram distribuídas em delineamento inteiramente casualizado com três tratamentos e quatro repetições cada, com seiscodornas por repetição. Os tratamentos experimentais foram:T1 ­aves submetidas a três dias de jejum com posterior fornecimento de ração de postura à vontade por setedias; T2 ­aves que receberam alimentação controlada (10 g/ave/dia) por 10 dias; T3 ­aves que receberam farelo de arroz à vontade por 10 dias. Durante todo o experimento todasas aves foram submetidas a iluminação natural com média de 12 horas de luz diária e água a vontade e após os 10 dias de muda foi fornecido ração de postura a vontade. A utilização do T2 (10 g/ave/dia de ração de postura) e de farelo de arroz como alimentoalternativo no programa de muda forçada foi viável. Mesmo a perda de peso sendo abaixo do recomentado, as aves que receberam 10 g de ração ave/dia e farelo de arroz à vontade apresentaram resultados de desempenho e qualidade do ovo pós muda semelhantes àsaves que ficaram em jejum, além de possibilitar melhores condições de bem-estar animal.(AU)

The objective was to evaluate alternative methods of qualitative and quantitative feed restriction compared to theconventional technique of forced moulting in Japanese quails for the second production cycle. The forced moulting period lasted 10 days and two 21-day post-molt periods. 72 female Japanese quails were used, at the end of production at 72 weeks of age. Thebirds were distributed in a completely randomized design with three treatments and four replications each, with sixquails per replicate. The experimental treatments were: T1 ­birds submitted to three days of fasting with subsequent provision of layingfeed ad libitum for sevendays; T2 ­birds that received controlled feeding (10 g/bird/day) for 10 days; T3 ­birds that received rice bran ad libitum for 10 days. Throughout the experiment, all birds were submitted tonatural lighting with an average of12hours of daily light and water ad libitum and after 10 days of molting, laying feed was provided ad libitum. The use of T2 (10 g/bird/day of laying ration) and ricebran as an alternativefood in the forced molt program was feasible. Even the weight loss being below the recommended, the birds that received 10 g of poultry feed/day and rice bran ad libitum showed similar post-moult performance and egg quality results to birds that were fasted, in addition to enabling better conditions. of animal welfare.(AU)

Reprodução equina: um modelo de ensino / Equine reproduction: a teaching model

Vivemos nos últimos anos um momento difícil em relação ao ensino de qualidade na medicina veterinária brasileira. Por sua vez, a equideocultura brasileira possui destaque internacional pela alta demanda de empregabilidade e pela excelência de seu plantel. Sempre a frente do seu tempo, a Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, a PUCPR, possui um curso de 28 anos de história, onde a excelência no ensino é reconhecida de norte a sul do país. Ao longo dessa história, um dos grandes diferenciais da universidade são os grupos de estudos, que são realizados por áreas específicas no curso e que acontecem no contraturno do estudante. Um dos primeiros grupos de estudos formados na PUCPR, foi em 2003: o Grupo de Estudos em Reprodução Animal. E com um grande interesse dos estudantes pela área de equinos, em 2008 nasce o Grupo de Estudos em Reprodução de Equídeos que perdura até os dias de hoje com o nome de Liga Acadêmica em Reprodução de Equídeos lado a lado da Liga Acadêmica de Reprodução de Bovinos. Desde então, na área da reprodução equina, um trabalho realizado com os estudantes que simula a vida real de um haras de criação e um centro de reprodução equina junto ao rebanho didático da instituição. O que torna esse modelo de ensino da PUCPR especial é como ele é conduzido, levando o estudante através de trilhas ao longo da graduação que permite que ele realmente se forme podendo trabalhar e exercer na plenitude a reprodução equina. Ao longo de 23 anos, se observa que os profissionais ligados a reprodução equina e bovina, egressos do curso de medicina veterinária da PUCPR são referências em renomados criatórios de equinos no Brasil. Com todo esse trabalho desenvolvido ao longo dos 5 anos com esses estudantes temos a tranquilidade e a satisfação de entregar a sociedade profissionais extremamente capacitados, e prontos para o mercado do cavalo, de forma ética e respeitando os cavalos e todas as formas de bem-estar animal.(AU)

In recent years, we have experienced a difficult time in relation to quality teaching in Brazilian veterinary medicine. On the other hand, the Brazilian equideoculture has international prominence due to the high demand for employability and the excellence of its herd. Always ahead of its time, the Pontifical Catholic University of Paraná, PUCPR, has a course of 28 years of history, where excellence in teaching is recognized from north to south of the country. Throughout this history, one of the great differentials of the university are the study groups, which are carried out by specific areas in the course, and which take place in the student's after-school period. One of the first study groups formed at PUCPR was in 2003: the Animal Reproduction Study Group. And with a great interest of students in the equine area, in 2008 the Equine Reproduction Study Group was born, which lasts until today under the name of Academic League in Equine Reproduction side by side with the Academic League of Bovine Reproduction. Since then, around equine reproduction, work has been carried out with students that simulates the real life of a stud farm and an equine reproduction center with the institution's didactic herd. What makes this PUCPR teaching model special is how it is conducted, taking the student through paths throughout graduation that allow him to really graduate, being able to work and fully exercise equine reproduction. Over 23 years, it has been observed that professionals linked to equine and bovine reproduction, graduates of the PUCPR Veterinary Medicine course, are references in renowned equine breeding centers in Brazil. With all this work developed over the 5 years with these students, we have the tranquility and satisfaction of delivering extremely qualified professionals to society, ready for the horse market, ethically and respecting horses and all forms of welfare animal.(AU)

Critical aspects of legislation and their impact on the welfare of water buffaloes during transport

Transport is considered a stressful period for livestock that can cause economic and biological losses if inadequate handling procedures exist. Several manuals and guides include recommendations for common domestic species based on scientific evidence. Still, the legislative freedom of each country means that they are not mandatory worldwide, nor do they cover all species, such as the water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis). This review aims to analyze the legal strictures currently applicable to the transport of this species. Critical aspects of the legislation that address the pre-transport, transportation, and post-transport stages are discussed, focusing on Asian and Latin American countries and the European Union. Areas of opportunity to improve the norms and laws that impact public policies, civil aspects, and water buffalo welfare in production systems are elucidated.

Insensibilização e a qualidade da carne suína: Revisão bibliográfica / Stunning and pork meat quality: Bibliographic review

Produtos de origem animal destinados ao consumo humano vêm apresentando uma notoriedade quanto a biossegurança, rastreabilidade, qualidade, higiene e bem-estar animal frente aos consumidores. Após a terminação do suíno na granja, as etapas de pré-abate e abate, refletiram diretamente no produto final, consequentemente nos lucros obtidos pela empresa. Este trabalho tem por objetivo explicar como devem ser empregados os dois principais métodos de insensibilização aplicados na suinocultura e os efeitos na carcaça quanto a utilização dos mesmos. Demostrando desta forma, que ambos os sistemas são eficazes quanto ao bem- estar e a qualidade do produto final, desde que sejam adequadamente administrados.(AU)

Products of animal origin destined for human consumption have been presenting a notoriety regarding biosecurity, traceability, quality, hygiene and animal welfare to consumers. After finishing the pigs on the farm, the preslaughter and slaughter stages reflect directly on the final product, and consequently on the profits obtained by the company. This paper aims to explain how the two main stunning methods used in pig farming should be used and the effects on the carcass when using them. Thus, demonstrating that both systems are effective in terms of welfare and quality of the final product as long as they are properly managed.(AU)

Preliminary analysis of reproductive, behavioral and physiological characteristics of military working dogs

The use of dogs in military work environments has always aroused great interest in the general population and determining the stress levels they go through is extremely important to maintain their welfare. The aim of this research was to evaluate if the work shifts in military working dogs leads to stress conditions and if this working influences on the reproductive performance and life quality. The study was conducted at the Military Police Kennel located at Campinas, Sao Paulo, Brazil. Eight male dogs of four different breeds (German Shepherd, Belgian Malinois Shepherd, Doberman, and Rottweiler) were evaluated during two different shifts: Working Shifts: animals working 12 hours a day with 2 hour-interval; and Control Shifts: animals that were on their day off (36 hours). Saliva samples were collected for cortisol analysis at the control and working shifts. The study was carried out over 60 days and analyzed behavior, physiology, and reproduction quality. Saliva samples, behavior observation of stereotyping, resting and moving activities and semen analysis were collected by digital stimulation (for combined second and third fractions). The salivary cortisol levels during the control and working shifts were between 0.361-0.438 and 0.312-0.592 µg/dL, respectively; the highest values were found at the end of working shifts. The animals were resting during most of the observation period, but few showed stereotypic behaviors. The testicular consistency was firm and semen parameters were within the normal values in German Shepherd, Belgian Malinois Shepherd, and Doberman dogs. However, Rottweiler dogs had a higher rate of sperm abnormalities, higher salivary cortisol levels, and more stereotypic behaviors. Nevertheless this work highlights the importance of further research relating reproduction and cortisol levels in military dogs.(AU)

Behavior of domestic chickens: insights from a narrative review / Comportamento de galinhas domésticas: percepções de uma revisão narrativa

The intensification of poultry production systems has brought major changes in domestic fowls' physical and social environment. The management of these birds has received considerable attention in recent years due to new demands from consumers, especially those related to welfare. Behavior is the way that animals respond to the different stimuli they encounter in their environment. The behavioral expressions of poultry and the application of this knowledge in the care of the stock plays an important part in the maximization of the production efficiency of the poultry chain. Thus, defining ethical limits and guidelines for poultry production is essential to promote the development of new production practices, and by that ensure quality and productivity without putting bird welfare at risk. This review is based on scientific literature and highlights the main behavioral expressions of domestic chickens, including social, feeding, and reproductive expressions, in addition to stereotypes and strategies for social adaptation. Thus, it will promote to the reader and for the scientific community a better understanding about subjects that are not frequently discussed and by that help behavioral analyzes.

A intensificação do sistema de produção avícola trouxe profundas mudanças no ambiente físico e social das aves domésticas. O manejo dessas aves tem recebido considerável atenção nos últimos anos devido às novas demandas por parte dos consumidores, principalmente aquelas relacionadas ao bem-estar. O comportamento é a maneira como os animais respondem aos diferentes estímulos que encontram em seu ambiente. As expressões comportamentais das aves domésticas e a aplicação desse conhecimento no cuidado dos animais desempenha um papel importante na maximização da eficiência de produção da cadeia avícola. Assim, definir limites éticos e diretrizes para a produção avícola é fundamental para fomentar o desenvolvimento de novas práticas produtivas, e assim garantir qualidade e produtividade sem colocar em risco o bem-estar dos animais. Esta revisão destacará as principais expressões comportamentais das aves domésticas, dentre elas as expressões sociais, alimentares, reprodutivas, além de estereotipias, e identificará as estratégias de adaptação social. Assim, promovera ao leitor e a comunidade científica uma melhor compreensão de assuntos pouco discutidos para assim auxiliar em análises comportamentais.

Impact of Pre-transport Feed Withdrawal on Welfare and Meat Characteristics of European Quails

The objective of this study was evaluate whether pretransport feed withdrawal affects welfare, carcass, and meat characteristics of European quails. A total of 120 European quails were used, with an initial age of 15 days. Bird feed was removed before transport to the slaughterhouse at the following times, which characterised the different treatments: zero hours, three hours, six hours, nine hours and twelve hours. The transport took 54 minutes to cover 27 kilometres to a commercial slaughterhouse. The birds were slaughtered at 41 days of age. During bleeding, blood samples were collected. Blood glucose, total protein, albumin, uric acid, and corticosterone concentrations were measured. The carcasses and meat characteristics were measured. Poultry body weight decreased and blood glucose concentrations increased with the increase in feed withdrawal time. The treatments did not affect carcass weights. Carcass yields after three hours fasting were similar to those in the six hours and nine hours groups, indicating that gastrointestinal tracts were empty after the third hour. Meat quality was negatively affected (pH, lightness, water holding capacity, cooking loss) by the increase in feed withdrawal time; integrated parameters that characterise dark, firm, dry meat. Pre transport feed withdrawal time should be three hours to empty the gastrointestinal tract and minimise losses in meat quality of European quails. It is necessary to adjust feed withdrawal so that it does not exceed this time, since there is no technical justification for supporting it.(AU)

Lighting, density, and dietary strategies to improve poultry behavior, health, and production

Poultry production is the most rapidly expanding agricultural industry. Consumer awareness of animal welfare has grown in recent years, and as a result, consideration for higher-quality meat production has increased. Environmental changes impact agricultural activity, including poultry production. These changes have raised serious worries that will severely impact poultry health and productivity due to climate change. In light of current environmental changes, determining the ideal environmental conditions for animals is a difficult challenge for researchers and breeders. When investigating the best environmental conditions for better poultry rearing and production, we must consider lighting, density, and dietary factors. These factors have separate and interactive effects on birds' behavior and performance. Understanding animal behavior is a key criterion for assessing animal welfare. It can assist breeders in better managing farm animals by reflecting the adaptability of the animal body to the surrounding environmental conditions. However, the optimal light quality and quantity, density, and feeding levels for poultry farming, particularly for chickens, are still a source of considerable debate among researchers and breeders. Therefore, this review discussed the current practical strategies for improving poultry behavior, health, and production through lighting, density, and feeding factors.(AU)

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

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 stock people 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.

Circus Animal Welfare: analysis through a fivedomain approach

This study aims to review the current available literature regarding circus animals from the perspective of the five domains proposed for evaluating animal welfare to identify the critical points in the use of these animals and understand how circus spectacles affect their mental state and health. Exhibiting animals in circuses continues to be a popular practice today in some countries such as Germany, Spain, or Australia. However, animals' biological needs are not always prioritized due to the inadequate diets, reduced housing spaces, deficient social interaction, and handling that predisposes them to develop stereotypies and alter mental states due to chronic stress. Animal circuses are considered a controversial practice that can decrease the welfare of animals. Understanding the possible negative consequences on animal welfare (mental state and physical health) could contribute to planning strategies to improve the quality of life of wildlife animals exhibited in circuses worldwide.