Abstract
Simple SummaryRecords from road transport of horses from Perth to Sydney over a two year period were analysed to explore the incidence of transport related issues and identify risk factors. Transportation resulted in health problems in 2.8% of the transported horses, and in fatalities in 0.24%. Journey duration and season were risk factors for the development of transport related health problems, while breed, sex and age did not predict disease or injury risk. Overall, this study provides statistics to inform policy development for the equine transport industry and enhance management of the transported horse.Equine transportation is associated with a variety of serious health disorders causing economic losses. However; statistics on horse transport are limited and epidemiological data on transport related diseases are available only for horses transported to abattoirs for slaughter. This study analysed reports of transport related health problems identified by drivers and horse owners for 180 journeys of an Australian horse transport company transporting horses between Perth and Sydney (~4000 km) in 2013–2015. Records showed that 97.2% (1604/1650) of the horses arrived at their destination with no clinical signs of disease or injury. Based on the veterinary reports of the affected horses; the most common issues were respiratory problems (27%); gastrointestinal problems (27%); pyrexia (19%); traumatic injuries (15%); and death (12%). Journey duration and season had a significant effect on the distribution of transport related issues (p < 0.05); with a marked increase of the proportion of the most severe problems (i.e., gastrointestinal; respiratory problems and death) in spring and after 20 h in transit. Although not statistically significant; elevated disease rate predictions were seen for stallions/colts; horses aged over 10 years; and Thoroughbreds. Overall; the data demonstrate that long haul transportation is a risk for horse health and welfare and requires appropriate management to minimize transport stress.
Highlights
IntroductionTransport stress in horses is caused by a myriad of stressors (e.g., isolation, confinement, noise, vibration, balance problem) which affect them both mentally and physically, causing behavioural and health problems prior to, during and after travel [1]
Transport stress in horses is caused by a myriad of stressors which affect them both mentally and physically, causing behavioural and health problems prior to, during and after travel [1]
The present study reports the incidence of transport-related issues and mortality associated with long-haul equine transport by a commercial equine transport company
Summary
Transport stress in horses is caused by a myriad of stressors (e.g., isolation, confinement, noise, vibration, balance problem) which affect them both mentally and physically, causing behavioural and health problems prior to, during and after travel [1]. Both short and long trips are stressful for horses and require proper management [2]. The Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines for the Land Transport of Livestock has instead specie-specific maximum journey and minimum rest periods that take into account access to water and food en route [7]
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