Search Results (727)

Ongoing research on the effectiveness of enrichment at the species, group, and individual levels is beneficial to our growing understanding of animal welfare and behaviour for animals housed in human care. Diversifying the enrichment opportunities offered to animals in facilities such as zoos and aquariums helps to encourage a wide repertoire of species-typical, naturalistic, and rewarding behaviours. The present study aimed to examine the behavioural impact of novel food (ice blocks, gelatine, eggs) and non-food (lavender, clean sheets, mirrors) enrichment strategies on two zoo-housed prides of African lions (Panthera leo) housed in a rotation-based enclosure system at Orana Wildlife Park, New Zealand. The results of the study indicate that, while both forms of enrichment had a behavioural impact, the effects on behaviour varied with the type of enrichment used, both between and within the two categories. Different enrichment strategies varied in their impacts on resting behaviour, locomotion, and exploration levels in the lions. An increased focus on the specific behavioural outcomes of various novel enrichment strategies is essential to expand the efficacy of enrichment programs for future efforts to improve the wellbeing of zoo-housed animals. Full article

Exposure to contaminated soils can adversely affect health and the well-being of both humans and animals. Environmental stressors can influence the mobility and toxicity of contaminants, altering their potential impacts. This study aimed to assess the impact on the behavior of offspring from rats exposed during the gestation and lactation period to contaminated and acidified soils. Female Wistar rats were gavaged daily for 42 days with soil leachate from an industrial region known to be contaminated with metals and metalloids, using solvents with different pH values (6.0, 5.2, and 3.6). The offspring were evaluated in behavioral tests including Open Field, Elevated Plus Maze, and Inhibitory Avoidance. Our findings revealed significant statistical differences in all three tests conducted, indicating that the exposed groups exhibited lower exploratory behavior, higher anxiety behavior, and lower memory retention than the control groups. The difference was more pronounced in the soil leachate with acidified solvent, at both pH 5.2 and 3.6, suggesting that the combined effect of both stressors led to synergistic interactions, potentiating their impacts. Elemental analysis revealed elevated levels of neurotoxic metals, including Cr, Cu, and Ni, as well as the metalloid As, with acidification significantly enhancing their bioavailability. Moreover, our results demonstrate that acidification facilitated the mobilization of metals and the metalloid As, increasing their bioavailability and acting synergistically to exacerbate the behavioral impacts of contaminated soils. Special attention should be given to populations living in industrial areas that may be exposed to contaminated soils. Full article

As bacteriophages (phages) are viruses that infect and destroy bacterial cells, they can be considered natural bactericides that can either directly or indirectly contribute to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) on health and well-being, food production and food security, as well as environmental protection and climate change mitigation, thus contributing to the success of the European “One Health” strategy to combat antimicrobial resistance in humans, animals, plants, and the environment. The biological activity of lytic bacteriophages can operate in the fields of microbiology and biotechnology for clinical, veterinary, agricultural, and industrial applications, among others, to achieve the proposed goals, mainly because the phages can help increase crop productivity by reducing bacterial diseases; constitute alternative therapies against infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria; can reduce populations of pathogenic bacteria that contaminate soil and water, therefore ensuring healthier and safer food production; and they can help reduce environmental pollution caused by the presence of agrochemicals and antibiotics. Phage-based therapies developed through research and innovation have the potential to promote greater global food security and health in a more environmentally friendly and eco-sustainable way. Full article

Milk fever, or periparturient hypocalcemia, in dairy cows has traditionally been addressed as an acute calcium deficiency, leading to interventions like supplementation and adjustments in dietary cation–anion balance. Although these measures have improved clinical outcomes, milk fever remains a widespread and economically significant issue for the dairy industry. Emerging findings demonstrate that a narrow emphasis on blood calcium concentration overlooks the complex interactions of immune, endocrine, and metabolic pathways. Inflammatory mediators and bacterial endotoxins can compromise hormone-driven calcium regulation and induce compensatory calcium sequestration, thereby worsening both clinical and subclinical hypocalcemia. Recent insights from systems biology illustrate that milk fever arises from nonlinear interactions among various physiological networks, rather than a single deficiency. Consequently, this review contends that a holistic strategy including integrating nutrition, immunology, microbiology, genetics, and endocrinology is vital for comprehensive management and prevention of milk fever. By embracing a multidisciplinary perspective, producers and veterinarians can develop more robust, customized solutions that not only safeguard animal well-being but also bolster profitability. Such an approach promises to meet the evolving demands of modern dairy operations by reducing disease prevalence and enhancing overall productivity. Tackling milk fever through integrated methods may unlock possibilities for improved herd health and sustainable dairy farming. Full article

Urban free-roaming cats present challenges like noise, urination, defecation, property damage, public health risks, and wildlife predation. Traditional enforcement methods, such as containment laws and impounding, are ineffective, especially in low-income areas, where many free-roaming cats live. These cats are often cared for by “semi-owners”, who feed them without formal ownership. Financial barriers to sterilization for owned and semi-owned cats in these areas result in unplanned litters, sustaining the free-roaming population and burdening local authorities and animal welfare organizations. Cats causing complaints are frequently impounded and euthanized, affecting the mental health of veterinary, shelter, and council staff. This paper critiques punitive, compliance-driven strategies and highlights the success of assistive Community Cat Programs offering free sterilization, microchipping, and registration. In Banyule, Victoria, such a program reduced cat impoundments by 66%, euthanasia by 82%, and complaints by 36% between 2013 and 2021. Two other programs in large cities and rural towns in NSW and a rural town in Queensland have now reported similar results. Based on the One Welfare framework, these programs address the interconnectedness of animal welfare, human well-being, and environmental health. By removing financial barriers, they build trust between authorities and caregivers, improving compliance and welfare for cats, communities, and wildlife. However, following the loss of key program staff and the reintroduction of financial barriers in Banyule, cat intake rose by 140% between 2022 and 2024, demonstrating the detrimental impact of financial barriers and punitive approaches. This underscores the importance of sustained, community-based solutions and legislative reforms that prioritize humane, barrier-free strategies. Understanding the critical success factors for Community Cat Programs is essential for effective cat management. Full article

Background: GLP-1 analogues are a relatively new class of medications that form the cornerstone of diabetes treatment. They possess invaluable glucose-lowering properties without hypoglycemic effects as well as strong cardioprotective effects. The gut microbiome has become the focus of numerous studies, demonstrating its influence not only on the gut but also on the overall well-being of the entire body. However, the effects of GLP-1 analogs on gut microbiota remain uncertain. Scope of review: Our systematic review (based on PRISMA guidelines) aimed to gather knowledge on the effects of GLP-1 analogue medications on the composition, richness, and abundance of gut microbiota in both animal and human models. Conclusions: Thirty-eight studies were included in this systematic review. GLP-1 analogues have demonstrated a notable impact on the composition, richness, and diversity of gut microbiota. We can conclude, following the obtained research results of our study, that liraglutide promotes the growth of beneficial genera relevant for beneficial metabolic functions. Exenatide and exendin-4 administration showed various effects on the microbiome composition in animal and human studies. In animal models, it increased genera associated with improved metabolism; however, in human models, genera linked to better metabolic functions and escalated inflammation increased. Following dulaglutide administration, increases in Bacteroides, Akkermansia, and Ruminococcus, genera connected to an improved metabolic model, were significant. Finally, varied results were obtained after semaglutide treatment, in which A. muciniphila, known for its positive metabolic functions, increased; however, microbial diversity decreased. Semaglutide treatment provided various results indicating many confounding factors in semaglutide’s impact on the gut microbiota. Results varied due to dissimilarities in the studied populations and the duration of the studies. Further research is essential to confirm these findings and to better recognize their implications for the clinical outcomes of patients. Full article

Poor PQ is a partial case of power system impact on society and the environment. Although the significance of good PQ is generally understood, the topic has not yet been sufficiently explored in the scientific literature. Firstly, this paper discusses the role of PQ in sustainable development by distinguishing economic, environmental, and social parts, including the existing PQ impact assessment methods. PQ problems must be studied through such prisms as financial losses of industrial companies, damage to end-use equipment, natural phenomena, interaction with animals, and social issues related to law, people’s well-being, health and safety. Secondly, this paper presents the results of the survey of Lithuanian industrial companies, which focuses on the assessment of industrial equipment immunity to both voltage sags and supply interruptions, as well as a unique methodology based on expert assessment, IEEE Std 1564-2014 and EN 50160:2010 voltage sag tables, matrix theory, a statistical hypothesis test, and convolution-based sample comparison that was developed for this purpose. The survey was carried out during the PQ monitoring campaign in the Lithuanian DSO grid, and is one of the few PQ surveys presented in the scientific literature. After counting the votes and introducing the rating system (with and without weights), the samples are compared both qualitatively and quantitatively in order to determine whether the PQ impact on various end-use equipment is similar or not. Full article

The livestock sector is crucial for global food security and economic development, particularly in developing nations, as it supports the livelihoods of approximately 1.3 billion people. However, with the global population expected to reach 9.2 billion by 2050, the sector must address increasing demand for livestock products while ensuring environmental sustainability. This study used the available literature to evaluate the economic viability of sustainable pasture and rangeland management practices to enhance livestock production. The key findings demonstrate that strategies such as rotational grazing and nitrogen fertilization can decrease winter feed costs by up to 40% while simultaneously improving pasture productivity and animal weight gains. Initial investments in these improved forage practices offer high internal rates of return, indicating their profitability. To guide sustainable pasture production and rangeland management, we propose a conceptual framework that balances cultivated pastures and natural rangelands. This framework assesses critical factors, including input costs, expected outputs (enhanced biodiversity and livestock production), and interventions to mitigate land degradation. For successful adoption of these practices, targeted policies are essential. Governments should develop financial support mechanisms for smallholder farmers, improve transportation infrastructure for efficient feed logistics, and provide technical assistance to educate producers on sustainable practices. Engaging stakeholders to align policies with local needs is also vital. By implementing these strategic interventions, the resilience of livestock systems can be strengthened, contributing to long-term sustainability and supporting food security and rural community well-being. Full article

Over the past decade, the number of companion dogs and cats has grown significantly, leading to an increase in veterinary visits. These visits can be stressful for animals, potentially affecting their long-term physical and emotional well-being. The aim of this study was to investigate how dog and cat owners perceive the factors influencing their pets’ behavior and welfare during veterinary visits. After completing a veterinary visit, dog and cat owners filled a survey assessing their pets’ behavioral responses at different stages of the consultation. A total of 94 dog and cat owners participated in this study. The findings revealed that perceived stress levels were the highest right after entering the practice but declined significantly after about 10 min in the waiting room. The owners’ observations, based on their familiarity with their pets’ typical behavior, were considered a useful tool for assessing the stress levels in their companion animals during the veterinary visits. Although they had the possibility to choose terms from a list of behaviors, no ethogram was provided previously or during the data collection. In conclusion, while stress remains a key concern for animal welfare, the most critical period identified was immediately before and after entering the veterinary practice. Further research is needed to better understand this crucial phase and its implications for the health and welfare of dogs and cats. Full article

The COVID-19 pandemic has presented significant challenges, including financial strains and mental health issues like depression and loneliness. Human–animal interaction (HAI) offers a potential buffer, as pet ownership has been linked to benefits such as improved psychological well-being, increased perceived social support, and reduced loneliness. Furthermore, attachment to pets appears to moderate these effects, with more attached owners experiencing greater benefits. However, most research has focused on female samples, leaving a gap in understanding HAI among men. This study aimed to examine the relationship between pet attachment and psychological well-being, loneliness, and perceived social support among Greek male pet owners ages 18 to 45. Between January and March 2021, a sample of 87 participants completed a demographics form and four self-reported questionnaires: LAPS for pet attachment, WHO-5 for well-being, a three-item loneliness scale, and MSPSS-Pets for perceived social support. Hierarchical multiple regressions indicated that pet attachment predicted increased perceived social support but showed no significant association with psychological well-being or loneliness. Age emerged as a predictor of well-being, with older men reporting higher levels, but no significant predictors of loneliness were found. These findings suggest that companion animals may provide emotional support but may not alleviate the broader psychological burdens intensified during crises like the pandemic. Full article

Rodents play a role in the spread of disease and cause immense damage to produce and infrastructure, leading to food safety risks and economic losses for farmers. Farmers typically control rodent populations using rodenticide baits, which are expensive, and, when used incorrectly, are inefficient, and pose a risk to children, pets and wildlife. Cats may offer a safer, more efficient and cheaper option for farmers, but concerns for cats’ impact on wildlife and possible negative outcomes for their own welfare may lead to them being underutilized. Through semi-structured interviews with 15 people from 9 dairy farms in two regions, we explored the value cats have to dairy farmers and the perceived impact of the Australian Tax Office making working cat care tax deductible. The data gathered during interviews indicated that uncontrolled rodent populations have a detrimental impact on dairy farms and showed that farmers valued having cats due to their efficiency in pest control, monetary savings and companionship. They struggled to cover the cost of cat care, however, particularly costs like sterilization and vaccination, which are necessary to enhance cat welfare and protect native wildlife from diseases and cat overpopulation. Our findings demonstrate that dairy farmers value the working cats on their farms for rodent control. Allowing cat care to be tax deductible may enable farmers to provide care such as sterilization, vaccination and food, potentially improving farmers’ wellbeing and cat welfare whilst reducing cats’ impact on wildlife. It is strongly recommended that relevant industry bodies gather additional evidence from both dairy and other types of farming operations, and if results are consistent with the findings from our study, they lobby state and federal governments to consider that cats kept on farms for rodent control be considered tax deductible as they are in the US and UK and are also exempt from state cat registration and permit costs as working dogs are in Australia. Full article

Background: Evidence of the beneficial effects of animal-assisted interventions (AAI) on patients admitted to paediatric hospitals is growing. However, there is still little information about healthcare professionals’ knowledge of and attitudes towards AAI, both as a complement to medical treatments and as a tool for improving the workplace environment. The present study explores the perspectives of Italian paediatric hospital staff after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: An online questionnaire was developed and distributed to paediatric hospital personnel across Italy. The questionnaire addressed topics including AAI’ impact on the hospital environment, their role as a resource for patients and families, their effect on staff well-being, and the perception of the feasibility of AAI implementation in hospitals. Data were analysed descriptively and qualitatively. Results: A total of 44 respondents took part in the survey. Most respondents agreed that AAI could improve hospital environments and serve as a valuable resource for patients and families. However, results were more mixed about the effects of AAI on staff well-being and the feasibility of their implementation. Qualitative analysis identified recurring themes including the positive impact of AAI on emotions/general well-being, improved compliance and treatment outcomes, and reduced stress and distress. Concerns included organisational/logistical challenges, hygiene issues, and potential impact on staff workload. Notably, most participants felt that the COVID-19 pandemic had not affected their perception of AAI safety. Conclusions: Most respondents viewed AAI favourably and supported their implementation as a means of benefiting patients and caregivers. Concerns mainly related to organisational and logistical barriers highlight areas that require further exploration in future research. Full article

Animal behaviors are key signs of animals’ stress, disease, and overall well-being. This study was conducted in an experimental farrowing building using eighteen sow pens: nine exposed to natural heat stress under summer indoor temperatures and nine receiving cooling treatments via innovative cooling pads. Sow and piglet behaviors were recorded in an ethogram through direct visual observation every 5 min for 48 h. Passive infrared detectors were used for continuous pig behavior monitoring every sec. Zmodo wireless cameras were used for video monitoring to validate sensor detection results. Visual observation revealed distinct pig behaviors between the treatments. The sows had peak times in eating, standing, and drinking approximately from 05:00 to 12:00 and from 16:00 to 22:00. The sows under heat stress spent 49.3% more time lying (p < 0.01). They spent 10.7% less time sleeping (p < 0.05). Piglets under heat stress spent more time sleeping but less time nursing. The sensor outputs and pig moving behaviors (i.e., sow eating + standing + drinking + sitting + piglet walking) had a strong positive correlation (ρ = 0.81 for heat stress and ρ = 0.74 for cooling). In contrast, there were strong-to-moderate negative correlations (ρ = −0.77 for heat stress and ρ = −0.56 for cooling) between the sensor outputs and sow on-body behaviors (i.e., sow lying + nursing + sleeping). Video recordings validated the response and sensitivity of the sensors, with them able to quickly capture changes in pig behaviors and provide behavioral information about the nuanced pig movements. Full article

This pilot study investigated the effects of massage therapy on stress indicators in recreational horses, focusing on salivary cortisol levels, heart rate and conflict behaviors. Five recreational horses were analyzed under two experimental conditions: without and with massage treatments before riding sessions. Saliva samples were collected at four specific intervals in each condition to measure cortisol concentrations using an ELISA test. Observations of behavioral indicators and heart-rate monitoring complemented the physiological data. The results revealed that massage significantly reduced cortisol levels in saliva, with decreases averaging 526.6 pg/mL and 321.8 pg/mL during key sampling intervals. Behavioral analysis showed a notable reduction in conflict behaviors such as tail swishing, which decreased from 121 occurrences to 85 after massage. Relaxation behaviors, including relaxed lower lip and half-closed eyes, were frequently observed during massage sessions, further confirming its calming effects. These findings demonstrate that massage effectively alleviated stress in horses, providing practical benefits for their well-being and usage in recreational activities. The study underscores the potential of incorporating massage therapy into routine equine care to promote relaxation and enhance animal welfare. Full article