Simple physiological indicators of young goats bred in extensive system

ABSTRACT

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of day shift on physiological variables of young goats bred in an extensive system. Ten females of undefined racial pattern were used, with a mean age of 5 months, distributed in a completely randomized design, with two treatments (morning and afternoon shift) and 10 replications per treatment. The environmental variables were collected through a digital thermo-hygrometer. Respiratory and heart rate, and rectal temperature were measured. During the experimental period the averages of the air temperature and relative humidity, and the black globe-humidity index (BGHI) were of 38.80 ºC, 25.76% and 78.11, respectively. It was observed effect (P<0.05) of day shift on all physiological variables, with highest averages observed in the afternoon shift. The animals increased the respiratory and heart rate during the day periods to be able to maintain the rectal temperature within limits considered normal for this species.(AU)