Working dogs perform critical functions, and Colombian regulations require safeguarding their welfare; however, validated instruments to verify compliance are lacking. Therefore, this study aims to develop and apply a welfare assessment protocol for working dogs in Colombia, based on the Welfare Quality® framework with expert validated indicators. A two round Delphi process defined, prioritized, and integrated indicators at three levels (fundamental, intermediate, basic). The protocol was applied to 65 dogs from eight canine units in Bogotá. Negative cut-off points were established for each indicator, and an overall welfare score was calculated per unit. Associations among animal based, management, and resource measures were analyzed with Fisher’s exact test, logistic regression, and Random Forest models. Expert consensus resulted in a protocol comprising 32 indicators that proved applicable under real conditions. 16 indicators exceeded their negative cut-offs threshold. No canine unit showed poor welfare; one was excellent, five good, and two acceptable. The human-animal relationship was associated with signs of stress during work, and exercise was associated with reaction to humans. Social housing was related to kennel space, provision of shelter, and affiliative behaviors. The predictive models showed high apparent fit with potential overfitting. Overall, the findings indicate that protocol is applicable and sensitive and aligns with Colombian regulatory requirements. Future research should assess intra-observer and inter-observer reliability, include larger samples sizes, review low reliability indicators, and replace a single overall score with criterion or domain profiles to improve discrimination and operational management.
Histological studies on wild birds are still limited, taking into account the great diversity of species and the difficulty in obtaining material for analysis. Due to this scarcity, the present work aimed to describe the microscopic morphology of the trachea and lungs of two penguins of the same species. To this end, two specimens of Spheniscus magellanicus, Foster 1781, known as the Magellanic Penguin, were used, which were taken to the Wild Animal Rehabilitation Center at Universidade Estácio de Sá/RJ, by members of civil society and care bodies. and government protection; however, they could not resist the injuries and died naturally. Immediately after death, the animals were dissected and the tracheas and lungs were fixed in 10% Millong formalin and embedded in paraffin and 5 μm sections were made. The macroscopic analysis highlighted the differentiated structure of the organs, such as the trachea; typically bifurcated species, possibly due to the fact that these animals are aquatic and remain submerged for minutes. Hematoxylin-eosin staining showed the differentiated structure of the respiratory tree, with a bronchial branching pattern composed of mesobronchi, secondary bronchus and parabronchi, in addition to the absence of classic pulmonary alveoli, with air capillaries replacing them in a paleopulmonary system. The complex architecture contributes significantly to the greater efficiency of gas exchange in these animals.
Roaming canines in urban environments pose challenges to animal welfare, public health, and community coexistence. Understanding and analyzing the dynamics of this population not only provides numerical estimates but also reveals patterns in their demographics, welfare, and health. This study, conducted in Zipaquirá, Colombia, aimed to estimate and characterize the population of roaming canines across the five communes during March, April, and May 2021. We followed the methodological guidelines from World Animal Protection, using random sampling in each commune on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Data on sex, age, size, breed and reproductive status were collected, along with indicators of animal welfare such as body condition, health status, injuries, and emotional state. The result estimated a population of 244 +/- 106 in Commune 1, 768 +/- 246 in Commune 2, 612 +/- 179 in Commune 3, 108 +/- 53 in Commune 4, and 256 +/- 114 in Commune 5. Adult male, medium-size, mixed-breed dogs, neutered, were the most common, showing ideal body condition, good overall health, and a calm emotional state. These data aim to support the planning and implementation of strategies for the humane management and control of street animals in the municipality, with the goal of improving the coexistence between the human and canine populations in Zipaquirá.
Despite its positive socioeconomic impact, road infrastructure promotes significant environmental disturbances, including collisions between vehicles and wildlife. This case study aimed to identify mitigation strategies for wildlife roadkill events on the Autopista al Mar 1 (Antioquia, Colombia), based on mortality characterization results. Mitigation strategies for the phenomenon of wildlife roadkill on the road were described through a comparison of the results obtained during characterization with information collected in the field to optimize existing tools. Of the 295 wildlife individuals killed between 2018 and 2021, opossums and iguanas were the most affected species. In addition, the crab-eating fox and collared anteater were considered species with potential vulnerability to road crossing due to their biology and ecological conditions. A comparative diagnosis was conducted on critical points (hotspots) obtained during characterization and the georeferencing of measures adopted by the concessionaire. Finally, a mitigation proposal with seven measures was put forward as potential strategies for mitigating wildlife roadkill. Our proposal emphasizes the importance of formulating joint strategies for preventing wildlife casualties on the Autopista al Mar 1. However, it can be useful for any national or international road provided that the tools to specific needs.
The risks and opportunities derived from the extensive and continuous use of the Taricaya (Podocnemis unifilis) and the absence of legally established mechanisms for its use in the country imply a necessary and contextual exploration of both its main biological and clinical characteristics and its zootechnical benefits, as well as the level of social acceptance for the implementation of productive systems of the species and its projections in the context of distribution and greater use such as the Amazon. To achieve these purposes, this research was developed from a methodological process mainly of documentary type, with less participation of a quantitative approach for the contextual reference of perception of its livestock use. It was found that for the species a large amount and variety of information has been recorded, biological, clinical and zootechnical use, which guarantees the bases for the adequate projection of its use in animal husbandry, which registers a high social acceptance mainly focused on the marketing of live specimens as pets, followed by their eggs and oil.
An increase in oncological consultations for golden retrievers at Oncovet Veterinary Clinic in Bogotá, Colombia, prompted an investigation into the breed’s potential predisposition to certain tumors and associated risk factors, a relationship not yet well-defined in the Colombian context. This study conducted a retrospective, descriptive analysis using data from 147 clinical records of golden retrievers seen between January 2020 and December 2022. After identifying the most common tumor types in this population, univariate analysis was employed to examine their associations with variables present in the clinical histories. Chi-square tests and Fisher’s exact tests were performed, with statistical significance set at p < 0,05, to identify factors associated with the occurrence of the most prevalent tumors. The results revealed that carcinomas were the most frequent tumor type, more commonly observed in males (59 %) compared to females (41 %), predominantly in geriatric, neutered individuals, and often localized to the skin. In terms of age, carcinomas and lymphomas were most prevalent in adult and geriatric dogs, while histiocytomas (45 %) were most seen in puppies, followed by papillomas and carcinomas (18 % each). These findings underscore the need for further research to clarify the causal relationships between various risk factors and the underlying biochemical mechanisms. Based on these results, we recommend initiating screening for neoplastic diseases at 5-6 years of age for both male and female golden retrievers, to obtain an early diagnosis.
Bovine paratuberculosis is a chronic infectious disease of cattle, that generates negative effects on production, and justifies the control of this disease. The objective of this study was to design a bovine paratuberculosis control program in a specialized dairy herd in Colombia. The control program was built according to the methodology of Risk Assessment and Management Plans in a specialized dairy herd endemic to the disease. A management and a test-and-cull plan were subsequently proposed. In addition, an economic cost was estimated for the implementation of the control program and the impact of clinical cases. A 40 % risk of infection was found in the calving area and 27 % in the pre-weaned calves’ area. A management plan was proposed that recommends the separation of calving and pre-weaned calves’ areas, and a test-and-cull plan was formulated considering the elisa and qpcr tests. The economic cost associated with the implementation of the control program was estimated at cop$64,000/animal/year and the economic impact of clinical cases was cop$86,000/animal/year. It was found that applying the control program represents a lower value than the economic impact of the disease and an represents an opportunity to improve the health and production of the study herd.
Ingestion of foreign bodies (FB) is a frequent complaint in the routine of small animal surgical clinics and can result in cases of severe intestinal tract obstruction. Stones, toys, bones, fabrics, ropes, among other items, are very common objects removed from the gastrointestinal tract of companion animals. The patient's history, along with clinical and imaging exams, are strictly necessary to determine whether clinical or surgical treatment should be implemented. Therefore, this report aims to describe a case of foreign linear body removal through multiple enterotomies in a Golden Retriever female dog. The patient was brought in with abdominal pain, vomiting, and anorexia. An ultrasound examination was performed, which revealed changes in a segment of the intestine. Consequently, exploratory celiotomy was chosen, allowing in situ observation of the intestinal segment, followed by enterotomies. The procedure enabled the removal of the linear FB, with no complications during or after surgery. This report reinforces the importance of evaluating clinical signs and complementary exams, as well as anatomical and surgical knowledge, to achieve an early diagnosis, providing better quality of life for the patient.
The syndrome of calvarian hyperostosis is an osteoproliferative alteration, with few reports, characterized by bone proliferation in the bones of the skull, and eventually in the mandible and long bones. In most cases, it does not determine clinical signs and is self-limiting when the animal reaches skeletal maturity. Some animals may develop neurological changes, as well as pain at the site, fever, and lymphnode enlargement. Some breeds are predisposed, including Bullmastiff, Pit Bull and Weimaraner. The diagnosis is made through clinical signs, radiographic examination and histopathology. Cranial radiography shows smooth and homogeneous, symmetrical and bilateral cortical proliferation in the bones of the calvarium that disappears when the animal stops growing bones. The present case report aims to describe a case of calvarial hyperostosis in an American Bully dog.
The Subjective Quality of Work Life (qwl-s) in informal workers in the agricultural sector is understood as the perception of well-being at work, covering both objective conditions (economic and material) and subjective conditions (meaning and satisfaction). In Latin America, few studies address cvl in the informal agricultural sector, which makes it necessary to further explore the rural context. This study seeks to characterize the qwl-s of informal workers in the agricultural sector in Pasto, Colombia, by analyzing both objective and subjective perceptions of their working conditions. The findings reveal that objective conditions, such as low income and long hours, negatively affect qol, while subjective conditions show a positive perspective regarding the meaning of work, satisfaction, and personal development. The lack of protection measures and low remuneration represent challenges; however, workers value their work for its contribution to society and its role in personal and family stability. In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of cvl in the informal agricultural sector and emphasizes the need to promote public policies that improve working conditions and strengthen well-being and labor dignity in rural contexts.
The main purpose of the research was to analyze the impact of the penalty system related to the inappropriate use of wild animals in the department of Caquetá, located in the Colombian Amazon. For its execution, a documentary and statistical study of the data officially submitted by the environmental, academic and judicial authorities of the territory was conducted. Based on this data, calculations were established for the collection of compensatory fees and fines for the inadequate use of wildlife, in accordance with the regulatory guidelines established for this purpose. The analysis of the environmental authority’s database revealed that the taxonomic group most frequently recorded in seizure and preventive apprehension cases in the department of Caquetá, including those erroneously classified as “voluntary deliveries”, is reptiles (56,70 %), followed by birds (24,15 %), and finally mammals (19,13 %). The effect of the sanctioning framework did not go beyond the preventive measure of seizure or apprehension, with no direct implications for the alleged offenders (criminals or violators). Additionally, compensatory fees for specimens reported between 2015 and 2024 were estimated at cop 193 349 393. Despite the serious implications of wildlife trafficking in Colombia, the extensive existing regulations do not show significant effects. There is a lack of effective economic resource collection, which could have been effectively invested in prevention and management strategies for addressing this issue.
Background: This work aimed to identify gastrointestinal parasites in birds from the Moroleón Zoo collection, Guanajuato, Mexico. Methods: The birds studied were inhabitants of the “Ruminant” section without restriction. However, during the autumn season, birds cohabited in the “Safari” (antelope, deer, and ostrich) and “Cameroon goat” sections. The bird collection consisted of 62 specimens, which are medically reviewed on a permanent basis as part of a routine veterinary care program; thus, a total of 33 fecal samples, grouped into the orders Galliformes (n = 18), Anseriformes (n = 13), and Struthioniformes (n = 2), were non-probabilistically obtained. Fecal samples were collected directly from the cloaca and preserved in 70 % alcohol. The samples were analyzed using two fecal parasitoscopic techniques: (1) direct microscopy and (2) zinc sulfate concentration (Faust). Additionally, all samples were subjected to Kinyoun staining. Results: Overall, parasites were identified in 84.8 % of samples, with most containing 2 or more parasite types. The most frequent genera were Blastocystis (66.7 %) and Cryptosporidium (27.3 %), the former associated with Numina meleagridis (Galliformes; p = 0.01668) and the latter associated with Anseriformes (p = 0.03854). Conclusion: Knowledge of parasitic biodiversity in birds is crucial to understanding their transmission potential. Therefore, new studies must be conducted to determine the genotypes of the parasites transmitted between birds and other hosts.
The Pudú (Pudu puda) is a species belonging to the Cervidae family. It is native to Chile and is distributed from the Maule region to the Aysén region. Today it is in a vulnerable state of conservation due to the urban approach to its habitat. There is not much anatomical knowledge of the structures that make up the spinal column of this species and its depth in clinical aspects is still little studied. Because it is a vulnerable species and requires routine care in animal rescue centers due to various accidents or attacks that they are faced with. It is necessary to deepen its different systems and organs with the intention of amplifying the morphological knowledge of this species. Due to the current situation of this species, an anatomical description of the bone segments that make up the vertebral column of four pudúes was carried out in the veterinary anatomy laboratory of the Universidad Santo Tomás and Universidad San Sebastián in the city of Puerto Montt, Chile. An anatomical description of each of the vertebral segments was made: cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral and coccygeal. Through the observation and analysis of each of the anatomical segments of the spinal column, it was possible to identify a series of differences, of interest in aspects of comparative anatomy and that allow us to understand morphological characteristics of this native Chile species.
Stress is a physiological response of adaptation to threatening stimuli, through the secretion of cortisol. University students in the health area have a higher prevalence of stress and anxiety. This study aimed to evaluate the self-perception of stress and anxiety related to cortisol levels during midterm exams in MVZ students. 45 students were selected, distributed in three groups (G1: I to III, G2: IV to VI, and G3: VII to IX semesters), who filled out surveys for self-diagnosis of stress and anxiety. Two blood samples were taken (T1: before, and T2: during midterm week) to determine cortisol levels by immunoassay. The results of the surveys were analyzed with McNemar and Chi square, and cortisol levels with T-student and ANOVA, correlations were evaluated with Spearman. There was an increase in G1 self-perception of stress and distress at T2 (p< 0.001), as well as significant differences in the perception of distress between all groups during T1 (p<0.001). Cortisol secretion was higher during T2(p<0.001, however, cortisol concentration between groups was similar (p>0.001). A correlation was found between psychometric variables for G2 during T2 (p<0.05). Academic exams increase stress, distress and cortisol levels in MVZ students, affecting their academic performance and health, which highlights the need to implement strategies to mitigate psychological distress in Universities.
The aim of this investigation was to establish the hematological reference intervals of milk-fed calves during the first four weeks of arrival at the farm. 80 dairy Holstein neonates were used (2 to 7 days of age). All calves in the study were fed standard milk replacer twice daily. The blood samples to establish the hematological reference intervals in milk-fed calves were taken 24 hours after arrival, at 7 days, 14 days, 21 days, and 28 days (5 samples in 4 weeks). A complete blood count and total serum protein measurement were performed, in addition, the calves were weighed 24 h and on day 28 after arrival. Parameters expressed in minimum and maximum ranges of WBC 3.5 to 53.6 cellx109/L; segmented neutrophils 46.6 – 0.43 cellx109/L, lymphocytes 13.4 – 1.1 cellsx109/L; monocytes 2.7 – 0.2 cellx109/L; eosinophils 0 - 0.8 cellsx109/L; basophils 0 - 0.5 cellx109/L, RBC 5.2 to 12.1 cellx1012/L; HGB 61 to 153 g/L; HCT 0.18 to 0.45 L/L, MCV 24 to 47 fL, MCH 8 to 15 pg; and MCHC 298 to 354 g/L; were obtained. For these 5 sampling times, the total serum protein was x̅ 5.11 g/100 mL, 4.76 g/100 mL, 4.63 g/100 mL, 4.65 g/100 mL, and 5.14 g/100 mL. Weight gain x̅ 51.82 kg (minimum 31.8 and maximum 72.6 kg). Given the non-existence of reference blood parameters in milk-fed calves, this study provides the bases to support initial reference parameters during the first 4 weeks of arrival in production systems (animals between 30 and 37 days of age).
Plecturocebus caquetensis, is a primate belonging to the family Pitheciidae that is located in Caquetá and Cauca regions of Colombia. It presents a high risk of threat and has been little studied, so to contribute to the knowledge of this species, several studies of its anatomy have been carried out, from which studies such as this one, focused on functional morphometry, derive. For this reason, the vertebrae of three juvenile female specimens from the Instituto de Ciencias Naturales of the Universidad Nacional de Colombia and the Museo de Historia Natural of the Universidad de la Amazonia were studied, obtaining different morphometric variables analyzed through the use of the Infostat® software, for a total of 156 structures evaluated, corresponding to 20 cervical, 52 thoracic, 21 lumbar, and 63 caudal vertebrae. The study generates information on the relationship between morphometric characteristics and the ability to adapt to certain habitats or incompatibility that may exist with the anatomical characteristics of the specimens.
We report the case of an ophidian accident caused by a Bothrops sp. snake to an adult mixed breed dog, an accident that occurred in a veterinary clinic in the city of Michelena, Táchira state, Venezuela. The venom inoculated by the bite caused hemorrhages, pain, inflammation, edema, bleeding, lethargy, and necrosis of muscles and tissues in the dog's left hind leg from the metatarsus to the lumbosacral region. With the urgency of the case, treatment started with washing and cleaning the wound area, intravenous hydration, injections of one daily dose of polyvalent antivenom with a total of 5 doses, control of hemorrhages with vitamin K injections, prevention of anaphylactic reactions with dexamethasone, and avoiding possible bacterial infections with antibiotics; The combined action of these treatments prevented the death of the dog, nonetheless that the venom of Bothrops sp. snakes has specific enzymes and proteins that caused inflammatory, proteolytic action, and necrosis of the muscles and other tissues. In Venezuela, the cases of snake bites in humans are high. Between 1996 and 2004, 53,792 cases of snakebite accidents were diagnosed. There is no data available on these accidents in dogs and cats, but it is estimated that they are also frequent events. Táchira, a Venezuelan state in the Andean mountain range, bordering the Santander del Norte department of Colombia, is the Andean state with the highest incidence of snakebite cases in humans and pets, such as the one described in this case report.
The following study focused on the osteometric measurements of the skull of nine adult specimens of the species Pudu puda, six males and three females, processed using the technique of osteotechnics and subsequently preserved in the anatomy laboratory of the San Sebastián University in the Patagonia campus and Santo Tomás in Puerto Montt. The objective was to determine a more detailed classification of the skull type of this species; for the anatomical description, the terminology recommended by the Veterinary Anatomical Nomenclature 2017 and various studies focused on anatomical descriptions of the species and domestic animals was used. For osteometric measurement and cranial calculations, bibliographic support and research on the subject were utilized, focusing on domestic animals. The statistical analysis was conducted using the "t test" through the statistical program MINITAB (p<0.05). For the analysis, total average values, minimum values, maximum values, standard deviation, and error were considered. The results obtained provided relevant information regarding the metric characteristics of the skull of the species under study, allowing us to conclude that according to its total cephalic index (TCI), it is categorized as mesocephalic with a total of 51.6%, its facial index as hyperlepten with a total of 103.3%, and its cranial index as dolichocranial at 70.8%, mandibular index (MI) at 55.7%, and area of a facial triangle (AFT) at 7.7%, with no significant differences between male and female specimens.
Equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS) is a common disease that impacts horse welfare. The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of gastric ulcers of the squamous and glandular portions, and simultaneous presentation and to determine their risk factors in sport horses at an equestrian complex in Colombia. These 50 horses showed that 23 (46%) had gastric ulcer (GU) in any of the stomach portions, 15 (30%) had Equine Squamous Gastric Disease (ESGD), 17 (34%) had Equine Gastric Glandular Disease (EGGD) and 9 (18%) presented ESGD and EGGD. In the affected horses, 26.09% presented ESGD, 34.78% EGGD and 39.13% ESGD and EGGD simultaneously. A significant association was found between GU in any portion with: breed (OR = 2.36, CI = 1.116-3.262), colic event during last year (OR = 2.516, CI = 1.63-10.042), previous diagnosis of GU (OR = 2.476, CI = 1.21-29.227) and with not being stabled (OR = 5.479 CI = 2.566-52.969). The study also showed an association between EGGD with concentrate consumption at < 2 kg/meal (OR = 2.095, CI = 1.599-7.333), having < 2 hours of grazing daily (OR = 4.636, CI = 1.684-31.435) and not being stabled (OR = 5.032, CI = 1.004-21.405). There was also a significant association between GU in both portions and previous diagnosis of GU (OR = 2.438, CI = 2.196-30.337). The presentation of the disease between the different stomach portions was significantly associated (p < 0.05). The results showed a significant prevalence of EGUS (46%) in the horses at the equestrian complex and it helped determine several associated risk factors.
The color of egg yolks is important to consumers and can improve marketing. Studies on egg pigmentation seek different types of substances to improve this parameter. To this end, carotenoids from forage turnips were evaluated in the quail diet. Two hundred forty birds were used in four treatments: a control without carotenoid addition in the ration (T0) and three treatments with carotenoids extracted from leaves (T1), f lowers (T2), and seeds (T3), at a rate of 80 mg/kg of feed each. Feed consumption, weight gain, mor-tality, laying and broken egg percentages, egg weight, shell thickness, and yolk color were determined. A completely randomized design was used. There was lower consumption in the carotenoid treatments (p<0.05). Higher weekly weight gain was found in T0 (13.43 g) compared to the other treatments (p<0.05). Conversion was better in the con-trol treatment (2.33) (p<0.05). The color of the egg yolk was improved with the addition of carotenoids, with the seed being the best treatment (p<0.05) with a color of 12.13 on the DSM scale. The other variables did not differ statistically (p>0.05). The addition of carotenoids from fodder turnips affects the following parameters: feed consumption, weight gain, and feed conversion in laying quails, but improves egg yolk coloration, es-pecially when carotenoids extracted from fodder turnip seeds are added.
