Objective In this study, the results of equine blood cultures sampled during the period from 2022 to 2024 were evaluated. Samples were submitted as routine samples by veterinary practices to a veterinary diagnostic laboratory in Germany. The study focused mainly on the differentiation of the bacterial isolates. In order to place the results in a clinical context, the study was complemented by a questionnaire sent to the practices enquiring for sepsis-associated clinical signs. Material and methods The study was carried out retrospectively. A total of 199 blood culture samples submitted by practices located in Germany and other European countries were included into the evaluation. A questionnaire asking for the reason of the individual blood collection and possible presence of sepsis-associated clinical signs was sent to the relevant practices and the returning responses were analyzed. Results 50.3% (n=100) of the blood culture samples showed a positive result, divided into 71% monomicrobial and 29% polymicrobial samples. Staphylococci were most frequently detected (30.2%), followed by bacteria of the genus Enterobacterales (18.9%). Nearly half of the horses (41.3%) was pretreated with antibiotics at the time of sample collection. Respiratory infection was the most frequently listed reason (17.4%) for initiation of a blood culture analysis. Conclusion The results of the present study are comparable to previous studies. The isolates were not classified into clinically relevant pathogens and contaminants, as for the majority of patients only one sampling timepoint was available, making any isolate a potential causative agent for bacteremia. Clinical relevance Sepsis is not a specific condition, but is based on the clinical findings and the result of the performed blood culture analysis. Considering the duration of a bacteriological culture procedure as well as the commonly critical condition of the patient, availability of data concerning the most frequently occurring pathogens is essential in rapidly initiating adequate treatment.
Subject matter and objective:The aim of this study was to display clinically relevant anatomical structures of the carpal region in healthy horses with the help of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Materials and methods:Twenty-eight forelimbs from 15 adult horses without orthopedic diseases were examined. Following native CBCT examination a mixture of hyperattenuating contrast medium with blue epoxy resin dye was injected in the antebrachiocarpal joint and middle carpal joint and contrast-enhanced CBCT scans were also acquired. Subsequently, the limbs were frozen and sawed in different planes corresponding to selected CBCT planes (dorsal, sagittal and transversal planes). These sawed specimens were then photographed to illustrate the sectional anatomy of the equine carpal region. Results:The anatomical structures were compared in the sectional planes of CBCT and the anatomical cross-sectional images and compiled in several images as part of an anatomical atlas. The osseous structures of the equine carpal joint were clearly visible in CBCT images. Especially following the adjustment of the soft tissue window, soft tissue structures such as extensor and flexor tendons and the carpal collateral ligaments were identifiable on CBCT images albeit the visibility was worse compared to osseous structures. Intracarpal ligaments were visualized indirectly after intraarticular contrast medium injection. Furthermore, the articular cartilage was assessable after intraarticular contrast enhancement with decrease in visibility from proximal (antebrachiocarpal joint) to distal (carpometacarpal joint). Conclusion:CBCT seems to provide valuable additional data, especially in cases where other two-dimensional diagnostic imaging modalities such as radiology or ultrasonography do not offer sufficient information for a definitive diagnosis in equine carpal issues. Clinical relevance:As cross-sectional imaging is becoming increasingly popular in equine orthopedic medicine, this study aims to visualize the carpal anatomy of the horse using cone beam computed tomography, to compare the acquired images with corresponding anatomical sections, and thus serve as an important basis for the application of CBCT in everyday clinical practice.
Subject and aim Penetrating wounds of the hoof are common and potentially life-threatening injuries in equine veterinary practice. The aim of this study was the systematic data analysis of horses presenting to the clinic with a solar puncture wound. Material and methods In this retrospective study, patient data from horses presented with a puncture wound to the hoof in the period from September 2008 to August 2024 were collected. The analyzed data covered signalment, intended use, and insurance status. The following were also considered: previous history including the period between injury and presentation to the clinic, affected limb, degree of lameness, location and type of foreign body, laboratory findings and diagnostic imaging findings. Results Ninety-six horses met the inclusion criteria. In 18/96 (18.8%) of the animals, the foreign body was still in place. Following hoof trimming, the puncture wound canal was located in 97.3% of the animals. In only 6/95 (6.3%) cases, the penetration site of the foreign body was located in the area of the sole. The dorsal region of the frog was affected in 37 (38.9%) cases, the central region in 17 (17.9%) cases, and the palmar/plantar region in 35 (36.8%) cases. Synovial involvement occurred to varying degrees in the frog area: 5 cases with injury to the dorsal frog region, 3 cases with penetration in the central frog region, and in 11 cases with involvement of the palmar/plantar frog region. Radiography was used in 86/96 (89.6%) cases. This imaging technique led to correct identification of involved structures in 82.6% (71/86) of cases. A MRI examination of the hoof region was only performed in 11/96 (11.5%) cases. Injuries involving the corium and digital cushion occurred in 36/95 (37.9%) cases. Forty (42.1%) horses had involvement of the distal phalanx and/or deep digital flexor tendon, and one or more synovial structures were affected in 19 (20%) animals. Conclusions and clinical relevance The predominant penetration site for puncture wounds of the foot is the frog region. Retaining the foreign body in place for referral is to be avoided, as hoof trimming exposes the puncture wound in the clinic even in its absence. A MRI examination is only necessary for diagnosis in exceptional cases.
Abstract:While diseases caused by foreign bodies are of minor importance in conventionally kept pigs, there is a significantly increased risk for mini pigs kept in residential or garden areas to ingest unsuitable objects and substances. Inaccurate or missing information from pet owners, as well as nonspecific clinical signs complicate diagnostics and may lead to delayed intervention. Especially with biological or natural materials or substances mini pig owners are often unaware that their ingestion may pose a health risk to the omnivorous pig. Therefore, these are often not mentioned in the history. Abstract:The following presents and discusses the possibilities and limitations of diagnostics, the transferability of diagnostic and surgical measures from small animal medicine to miniature pigs. Additionally, based on these case reports of intestinal obstruction caused by ingestion of foreign bodies species-specific limitations in mini pigs are illustrated. In both cases, the actual causes of the disorder, here the oral intake of cat litter and peaches, were not mentioned beforehand as they were not classified as a source of danger by the owners. Subsequently, the operative removal of the foreign bodies through gastrostomy or enterotomy was necessary in both minipigs.
Abstract:Q fever, caused by the obligate intracellular bacterium Coxiella burnetii, is a globally distributed zoonosis for which ruminants are considered to be the main reservoir. In Germany, the majority of human Q fever cases are linked to small ruminants. Epidemiological investigations show clear regional differences in herd prevalence, with higher detection rates in southern Germany, particularly associated with out-of-season lambing. Diagnosis in animals relies on both indirect (primarily ELISA) and direct pathogen detection (primarily PCR), although neither method can confirm the pathogen-free status of individual animals, emphasizing the need for standardized surveillance. Currently, no effective treatment is available for coxiellosis in ruminants. Therefore, vaccination with an inactivated phase I vaccine is the main measure used to reduce pathogen shedding and abortion rates. European animal health legislation (the Animal Health Law) places a general emphasis on the clear responsibilities of livestock keepers, veterinarians, and authorities for the reporting, prevention, and control of coxiellosis. The interdisciplinary consortium Q-GAPS has developed a practical management guideline for Q fever in small ruminants, providing recommendations for outbreak investigations and risk communication. It underscores that effective prevention and control of Q fever require a combination of vaccination, hygiene, and environmental management, as well as close cooperation between veterinary and human medicine, which aligns with the One Health approach.
Subject and aim:Slaughterhouse lung assessment is a diagnostic measure within the framework of herd health management in order to evaluate the status quo of respiratory health and the possible progression of respiratory diseases. The aim of the study was to assess the reliability of macroscopic lung findings depending on the examiner's level of experience and to describe the quality of lung changes histologically. Material and methods:Lung scores were assigned to 133 slaughter lungs from 4 batches by 5 to 7 experienced and non-experienced examiners. Lung scores were compared using non-parametric methods, taking the batches into account. The quality of the lung alterations was assessed by histological examination of samples from standardized lung locations. Results:The slaughtered lung batches differed in lung and pleuritis scores as well as histological diagnoses and grades. Suppurative bronchopneumonia dominated in 49%, and interstitial pneumonia in 16% of the lungs. The individual assessments of the experienced examiners varied less than those of the inexperienced examiners. Inexperienced examiners assigned significantly higher total lung scores. The histologically determined severity of lung alterations correlated with the macroscopic total lung score, which reflects the extent of alterations, only in experienced examiners and only in cases of suppurative bronchopneumonia (rs=0,28, p=0,02). Conclusions:Experienced and inexperienced examiners differ in their lung assessments, likely due to the subjectivity of the evaluation and the frequent presence of changes in lung color and consistency resembling slaughter artifacts. Training in lung assessment should primarily focus on detection of true pathological lung alterations. Histological and macroscopic findings complement each other and provide information about the quality and extent of lung alterations. Clinical relevance:Before lung checks at slaughter can be performed for diagnostic purposes the examiners should be trained properly, focusing in particular on the recognition of true pathological lung alterations. For an etiological diagnosis, further diagnostic tests should be performed on suitable sample material.
Abstract:In January 2020 Coxiella (C.) burnetii was detected in a small goat flock after the observation of a weak born kid, an abortion as well as a malformed kid. Abstract:All animals older than 3 months were subsequently primarily vaccinated with Coxevac (2x three weeks apart) until May 2020 and were revaccinated once in October/November 2020 and in May 2021. Young animals were primarily vaccinated annually except for 2023. Surveillance was performed by qPCR-testing of milk samples, vaginal and preputial (genital swabs, GT), nasal (NT) and environmental swabs (UT). Vaccination was controlled by blood and milk samples which were analyzed for phase-(PhI, PhII)-specific antibodies. Data were compared with those that had been collected in a seronegative goat herd in the course of vaccination. Abstract:The load of C. burnetii steadily decreased in all types of samples until June 2020. Weak positive samples were detected until November (milk) and December 2020 (GT). Two NT tested weak-positive (5 C.b./NT) in May and December 2021. No persistent infection was observed. The detection rate in UT was high until April 2020 (24/24), remained stable during the rest of the year (31/40) and slowly decreased during the following years: 12/24 (2021), 5/16 (2022), 2/8 (2023), 1/8 (2024), and 0/8 (2025). Abstract:Unexpectedly, vaccination only significantly increased the PhI-titers while PhII-titers remained stable. In contrast, in seronegative kids in the case- and adults in the control-herd vaccination induced a significant increase of PhII- titers while almost no PhI- titers were observed. Abstract:No short-term effect of vaccination was observed, therefore prophylactic vaccination is very important. A quantitative interpretation is required for environmental samples, these samples are valuable to verify the lack of infection. Positive results may be confirmed by NT or GT. NT are equivalent to GT, and they are collected more easily.
Objective:Compared to domestic ruminants, dystocia is uncommon in alpacas. Uterine torsion is the most frequent obstetrical emergency and also a leading concern in late pregnancy. North American studies report favorable outcomes for dams and guarded outcomes for crias; comparable data for European populations are lacking. This study thus evaluated causes and outcomes of late-pregnant and obstetrical cases at a veterinary teaching hospital. Materials and methods:A retrospective cohort study included all alpacas presented between January 2009 and August 2025. Cases of antepartal uterine torsions and manual and surgical obstetrical interventions were identified and retrospectively analyzed. Results:Thirty-five alpacas were included. Two cases involved antepartal uterine torsions, while 33 were obstetrical in nature. Gestation length ranged from 332 to 374 days. Dystocia (n=4) or antepartal torsion (n=2) were corrected manually in 6 cases, while 29 underwent cesarean (c-) section. Thirty-two dams (91.4%) were discharged after a mean hospitalization of 3.7 days; 24 of the 30 long-term survivors (80%) recovered without complications. Uterine torsion was the main problem (12/35, 34.3%), followed by fetal maldisposition (8/35, 22.9%) and insufficient cervical dilation (6/35, 17.1%). Counterclockwise torsions were diagnosed in 6 cases and clockwise torsions in 5, while the direction was unrecorded in one. Retained placenta was frequent but rarely clinically relevant. Wound healing after c-section was excellent, with only one dehiscence 10 days postoperatively. Thirteen crias (37.1%) were stillborn. Of 22 live-born fetuses, 5 (22.7%) died or were euthanized. Ten of the 25 surgical cases (40%) were re-mated, with 8 conceiving successfully (80%). Conclusions and Clinical Relevance:Uterine torsion is common, and determining the direction is essential before correction. Manual resolution of fetal maldisposition is often difficult due to the long neck and limbs and vulnerability of the genital tract. To maximize dam and cria survival, c-section should be performed in a timely manner if manual correction fails. The left flank approach under local anesthesia is practical in the field and provides good maternal survival and postoperative fertility.
Abstract:During the 2024/25 outbreak of bluetongue disease caused by serotype 3 of the bluetongue virus (BTV-3) in Germany, 6 newborn calves in a beef cattle herd in Saxony exhibited neurological abnormalities immediately after birth. This case study aims to describe the clinical findings in these 6 calves, the pathological and histological lesions observed in one of them, as well as the virological test results from the herd. The affected calves showed disorientation, absent reflexes, and poor suckling. In the necropsied calf, marked bilateral-symmetric loss of the cerebral cortex with fluid-filled cavities in the neuroparenchyma and dilated lateral ventricles consistent with hydranencephaly was observed. Histologically, cortical hypo- and dysplasia, cystic defects, micro- and astrogliosis, and dystrophic calcifications were present. In all 3 examined calves, BTV-3 RNA was detected in blood via RT-PCR, and high antibody titers were found, as well as in their dams and most of the herd. Evaluation of the herd's epidemiological situation suggests a possible intrauterine BTV-3 infection around day 120 of gestation. The demonstration of hydranencephaly in this case supports the general principle that detailed morphological characterization of the lesions can substantially aid in distinguishing this condition from other, particularly viral causes of CNS malformations in calves.
Objective:Cow-based calf rearing systems, in which calves are suckled by their dams or foster cows, are gaining increasing interest as a comparatively natural form of rearing. However, the effects of suckling on udder health are still insufficiently researched, or contradictory information is available. Material and methods:In this cross-sectional study, clinical and bacteriological udder health parameters were investigated in 249 organic dairy cows (dams and foster cows) from 15 farms in northern Germany. Quarter milk samples and clinical udder examinations were carried out at the beginning and end of the suckling period. Results:The results show that the mastitis pathogen spectrum can be extended to include pathogens that are transmissible between calves and cows, which increases the risk of intramammary infections with Staphylococcus aureus and atypical mastitis pathogens of the oral cavity of calves, such as Pasteurella multocida. Clinically, there was an increase in teat skin alterations and injuries, and the teats became longer towards the end of the suckling period, especially in foster cows and older animals, indicating mechanical stress due to suckling. Conclusions and clinical relevance:The cow-based calf rearing method, which is popular among consumers, presents specific challenges that need to be carefully considered and addressed through appropriate health monitoring and management strategies.
The nasal vestibule of numerous horses is pigmented. In the ventral part of the nasal vestibule, this pigmentation is often disturbed resulting in a clearly depigmented area. As nasal discharge passes this area, our study aimed at the practical quantification of the depigmented area in the nasal vestibule of horses and the analysis of its relation to nasal discharge and other parameters.This study included 74 horses (59 warmblood horses, 15 ponies) with pigmented nasal vestibule. When a depigmentation was found to be present in the ventral part, this area was photographed and quantified by use of a software. In addition, we recorded the horses' general parameters including the presence of nasal discharge (amount, consistency, basal microbiology).The median area of depigmentation was found to be larger in warmblood horses than in ponies (1.6 cm2 in total for both nasal vestibules vs. 0.5 cm2). Separate evaluations of the warmblood horses indicated a clear association with age and presence of nasal discharge at the time of inspection. In this regard, the depigmentation was increased with higher age and with the presence of nasal discharge (1.4 cm2 in horses without nasal discharge vs. 2.5 cm2 in horses with nasal discharge, each with a positive age correlation). Ponies only showed a clear dependency on nasal discharge (0.1 cm2 in ponies without nasal discharge vs. 1.3 cm2 in ponies with nasal discharge, and no age correlation). Further dependencies could not be identified.Increasing age of horses and nasal discharge contribute the depigmentation in the ventral part of the nasal vestibule. Therefore, an estimation of the degree of dermal depigmentation in this area seems to be useful to acquire further information concerning airway disorders with nasal discharge.
Equine laryngeal dysplasia (ELD) is the umbrella term for various malformations of laryngeal structures that arise from the 4th and 6th branchial arches during embryogenesis. The disease is rare and may be subclinical. In symptomatic patients with clinical signs, the clinical presentation is highly variable and is the result of functional limitations of the larynx as well as of the esophageal sphincter. The spectrum of signs may range from respiratory changes such as abnormal respiratory noise, coughing, and at times dyspnea all the way to poor performance, dysphagia, aerophagia, and colic. The most common reason for presentation is abnormal respiratory noise. In the following case series, the clinical signs of 6 affected horses are described and discussed in context with the literature. Furthermore, it is highlighted that the approach to diagnosis is primarily based on clinical examination, endoscopic inspection of the upper airways, and radiography of the laryngeal region. The most common endoscopic findings include right (HLD) and/or left laryngeal hemiplegia (HLS), rostral displacement of the palatopharyngeal arch (RDPA) and dorsal displacement of the soft palate (DDSP). In ELD, these findings may occur on their own or in combination. Since the findings may also be signs of further, more common disorders, misdiagnosis does occur. In the following article, the clinically relevant therapeutic and prognostic key points as well as important aspects on how to avoid common diagnostic pitfalls are discussed.
This study aims to investigate the performance parameters of 81 calves raised on a dairy farm, to evaluate the impact of neonatal calf diarrhea and bovine respiratory disease (BRD) on these parameters, and to assess the effectiveness of a preventive nutritional strategy in mitigating the effects of these diseases.Holstein-Friesian crossbreed (HF × Montbéliarde) calves were divided into control (C, n=70) and experimental (E, n=11) groups. In the first phase of the study, the experimental group received a commercial feed additive for 10 days post-birth, while the control group received no additive. All calves were vaccinated against BRD at scheduled intervals. In the second phase, performance parameters were evaluated, including age at insemination resulting in pregnancy (AIRP), pre-pregnancy body weight (PPBW), number of inseminations per pregnancy (NIPP), initial calving body weight (ICBW), age at first calving (AFC), and daily milk yield (MY). The study was conducted over a period of 33 months.In the first part of the study, 36 out of 81 animals (44%) experienced illness. Among the affected animals, 28 had diarrhea (including those with both conditions), 23 had respiratory diseases (including those with both conditions), 13 had only diarrhea, 8 had only respiratory diseases, and 15 suffered from both diarrhea and respiratory diseases. Although BRD pathogens were not investigated, rotavirus was identified as the primary cause of diarrhea. Data from the second part of the study revealed statistically significant differences in ICBW, NIPP, and MY between sick (n=36) and healthy (n=45) animals (p<0.05). A statistically significant difference was also observed in average milk yield during lactation among sick animals (p<0.001). The study concluded a significant negative correlation between diseases contracted during the neonatal period and milk yield, indicating that the impact of these diseases on average lactation is substantial (F=19.990; p<0.001). The 2 neonatal diseases significantly reduced average milk yield (β=-2.144). A history of Cryptosporidium parvum infection was associated with a higher incidence of BRD among affected animals, which also exhibited the lowest milk yield. Performance parameter analysis between control and experimental groups showed statistically significant differences in ICBW and MY (p<0.05). Conversely, PPBW, AIRP, AFC, and NIPP did not differ significantly between groups (p>0.05).The findings indicate that a significant proportion of calves initially presenting with diarrhea subsequently developed bovine respiratory disease (BRD), suggesting a potential association between early enteric disorders and later respiratory complications. This progression negatively impacts neonatal animal health and reduces milk yield, a critical productivity parameter for dairy farms. Consequently, neonatal diseases diminish long-term farm profitability. The results emphasize the benefits of prophylactic measures aimed at reducing diarrhea incidence during the neonatal period. Such strategies may promote healthier, more productive calves, thereby enhancing overall animal health and farm productivity.
The present study examined the occurrence of the 3 major genotypes of porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2a, PCV2b, PCV2d) in tissue samples from fetuses origination from litters suspicious for stillbirth, mummification, embryonic death, and infertility syndrome (SMEDI) affected litters from Germany. A total of 53 litters suspicious for SMEDI of 27 farms with a total of 469 fetuses sent in for diagnostic purposes between 2021–2023 from veterinarians in the field were available for the present examination. Veterinarians were asked to submit all dead piglets of SMEDI-litters to allow random sampling. Four fetuses per litter were randomly selected for the study. In total, 209 fetuses were examined by qPCR for PCV2 DNA and in case of a positive result, further genotyped by PCV2 genotype-specific qPCR or sequencing of the open reading frame 2. Farm specific data was collected on a voluntary base and included in the analyses. In total 40.7% (11/27) of farms, 37.7% of litters (20/53) and 21.1% (44/209) of fetuses were positive for PCV2 DNA. Genotyping by qPCR was successful in 37 PCV2 positive tissue samples. For 4 additional samples, sequencing of PCV2 DNA was performed to support the genotype assignment. After all, 29.6% (8/27) of farms, 30.2% (16/53) of litters and 19.1% (40/209) of fetuses were positive for PCV2d. One farm (3.7%) had a PCV2a+PCV2d positive fetus (0.5%) in one litter (1.9%). PCV2d could be identified as the main PCV2 genotype in SMEDI-associated fetuses. This finding is in line with the overall observed genotype shift toward PCV2d as the predominating PCV2 genotype in the domestic pig population not only in Germany but also in most all relevant pig producing countries worldwide. Moreover, these findings also indicate that diaplacental transmission may play a major role in the spread of PCV2 to downstream pig populations and thus, also for the observed genotype shift. The high Cq-values in tissue samples indicated that PCV2 was not the etiological pathogen in most cases. The occurrence of SMEDI in a piglet producing herd needs diagnostic attention and may also include PCV2 diagnostics including genotyping in PCV2 associated cases. This approach could enable adjustment of the vaccination protocol on farm level and early detection of newly introduced PCV2 genotype in a pig herd.
In October 2022, an increased incidence of anorectal abscesses occurred within a few days in finishing pigs on a pig fattening farm in north-western Germany. The farm keeps approx. 3000 pigs. Only finishing pigs (approx. 100 kg) in various stall compartments and pens were affected. The affected pigs developed purulent-inflammatory changes in the region between rectum, anus, and base of the tail. Signs of mechanical injuries or cannibalism were not evident. The owner reported a sudden refusal to feed about two weeks prior to the appearance of the abscesses. A new batch of corn-cob-mix was used from this point onwards. The animals were given liquid feed consisting of grain (barley, wheat), corn-cob-mix and supplementary feed. Atypical black particles the size of a pinhead were found in the mixing container of the liquid feed. After consultation with the farmer who had grown the maize used for the corn-cob mix, common datura (Datura stramonium) was identified as a contaminant. Pigs are known to be susceptible to the antinutritive effects of datura. In addition to feed refusal, this also induces a reduction of gastrointestinal peristaltic movement. In the present case, constipation was not directly observed in the affected pigs by the farmer, however, this nevertheless appears to represent the likely cause of the dermal changes. Subsequently, the datura contamination could be involved in the pathogenesis of the described anorectal abscesses.
Objective The aim of this study was to compare the fattening performance and pork quality of 10 pigs from the endangered breed Bentheim Black Pied (BBS) with 30 F 1 pigs from the widely used Danish hybrid pig (Large White x Danish Landrace) crossed with BBS (BHP), all fattened up under free-range conditions. Material and Methods A total of 40 pigs were fattened up under a restrictive feeding regime on a 1.28ha pasture and weighed monthly. Subsequently, the pigs were slaughtered, carcass traits were assessed, and samples from M. longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LTL) and back-fat were collected for laboratory analysis. Results Fattening performance differed significantly between the groups: BHP pigs were significantly heavier at the end of the fattening period (128.3 kg BHP vs. 102.5 kg BBS), with significantly higher average daily weight gain. Significant differences were observed in carcass characteristics (carcass length, cutlet weight, carcass yield). However, BBS pigs showed a more favourable fatty acid profile, notably with higher levels of the essential alpha-linolenic acid. Water-holding capacity was lower in BHP pigs, with significantly higher drip losses during cold storage at 2 degrees C, while grill- and thawing-losses did not differ significantly. Sensory analysis revealed that untrained panellists were able to distinguish between meat of both groups. BBS meat was rated as more tender, which was also confirmed by significantly lower shear force measurements. Conclusion and Clinical relevance The study showed that crossbreeding BBS and Danish hybrid pigs can compensate for performance deficits of the traditional breed -such as slower growth- while partially retaining beneficial traits, such as a nutritionally superior fatty acid composition. Overall, the results are in line with the expectations for F 1 crossbred pigs, when 2 breeds with different performance parameters are used. These findings are relevant for veterinary practitioners involved in sustainable pig production, the conservation of rare breeds, and the development of alternative outdoor husbandry systems.
Ark Warder Zoological Park is the world's largest center for rare and endangered domestic animal breeds. The park houses 87 breeds and 7 ancestral forms (wild animal species) across a 40 ha landscape park and 19 satellite stations (150 ha), providing a comprehensive impression of the once-extensive-agro-biodiversity. The park's scenic landscape as well as the newly established Domesticaneum science center form the foundation for intensive, close human-animal-contact, environmental education, immersive nature experiences, and the conveyance of domestic animals' significance in human cultural history. Furthermore, Ark Warder is based as a scientific institution. This holistic approach based on the following 6 core principles can be regarded as a unique concept: (1) Conservation breeding, (2) Establishment of satellite stations, (3) Education, (4) Networking, (5) Research, (6) Preservation of native biodiversity. This concept will be presented in this publication.
Domestic Baroque donkeys are popular animals in many European parks and zoos. Although their cream coat color is very charismatic, the underlying genetics is still undiscovered. Addressing this question, a candidate approach was used to search for the causative mutation.Considering the knowledge from domestic horses, the Solute Carrier Family 45 Member 2 (SLC45A2) was identified as the most promising candidate. Samples from 77 domesticated donkeys, 11 wild equids, 1 mule and 2 domestic horses were included in comparison. All exons and the flanking intron sequences of the SLC45A2 were sequenced (2774bp).Sequence comparison revealed that a mutation found exclusively in exon 7 transmembrane region 11 (c.1457C>T; p.Ala486Val) is very likely responsible for the charismatic coat color phenotype in Baroque donkeys. Family studies produced evidence for an autosomal recessive mode of inheritance. Since the coat color in Baroque donkeys varies from almost white to gold, the question remains whether the base coloration, which in mammals is regulated by the ASIP and MC1R genes, also have an impact but no remarkable mutations were found in Baroque donkeys.
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR), particularly antibiotic resistance, is an increasingly significant threat to human and veterinary health. Monitoring systems are essential for establishing targeted measures to reduce AMR and for measuring the success of these measures. The European obligation to record antibiotic consumption is entering the next stage. In order to implement Article 57 of Regulation (EU) 2019/6, data on the volume of antibiotic use in sheep, goats, horses (including non-slaughter animals), geese, ducks, rabbits intended for food production and fish (Atlantic salmon, rainbow trout, gilthead seabream, sea bass and carp) must be collected nationally by 1 January 2026. This data must then be reported by veterinarians to the HI-Tier veterinary medicine database (TAM-DB) by 14 January 2027.
This practical report refers to the farm's own data (weight development, sow behavior and lactation) from 2 farrowing passages (DG) in a free-range forest enclosure (DG 1 Feb. 2025: 5 sows; DG 2 May 2025: 3 sows). An additional trial passage (5 sows) in the summer of 2024 was included for the production data. The sows, which were artificially inseminated with Pietrain semen (crossbred sows: Schwäbisch-Hällisch*Pietrain), had 5 farrowing pens with heated piglet nests available for birth in a barn; a feeding area in the barn, the planned space with drinking troughs and a piglet free-range forest enclosure with 620 m² were accessible to sows and piglets at the latest from the 11th day of life (LT) of the first litter of each DG. A few weeks later, the pasture (3,000 m²) and main free-range forest enclosure (16,000 m²) were also opened. Feeding took place with organic concentrate feed components with 11.22 MJ ME/kg, 12.8% crude protein content and large quantities of acre-grass (supplied or grazing). The piglets were not weaned and remained with the sows until natural weaning.On average (trial passage, DG 1 and DG 2), 82.3% of liveborn piglets reached a weight of approx. 25 kg. Losses by crushing were 12.3% (mainly on the first day after birth) and other losses were 5.4%. The average daily weight gain of piglets in DG 1 and DG 2 was between LT 29 (8.01 kg live weight) and LT 78 (29.18 kg live weight) at 432 grams; at the end of week 10, an average group weight of 25 kg was reached. The sows behaved mostly relaxed and neutral towards the farm staff, with a few animals being nervous occasionally. No sow showed aggressive behavior. Recognizable weaning took place from the 13th/14th week of life (LW), with the largest part of weaning completed by the 16th/17th LW.For the presented practical farm keeping sows with piglets in a free-range forest enclosure is an effective way of production. The husbandry system shows adequate daily weight gains, and the sows' distinct feed conversion capability during the natural lactation period means that they can be fed 100% organic feed without any problems. With regard to losses by crushing on the first day of life, management must be further optimized in terms of selection of sows and factors such as bedding.
