Animal Well-being Research Articles

75 AI-Enhanced Hematocrit Analysis: Revolutionizing rapid anemia detection in small ruminants

Abstract In recent times, there has been a growing focus on the well-being and healthcare of small ruminants, particularly in relation to the issue of anemia due to infection with blood-feeding gastrointestinal nematodes, such as Haemonchus contortus. The objective of this study was to assess the hematocrit levels in blood samples obtained from small ruminants, specifically goats. Additionally, the study is an attempt to design and create a quick sensor for identifying anemia, which could be conveniently used on farms. A total of 75 mature, intact male Spanish goats were subjected to hematocrit analysis to ascertain their spectrum of hematocrit values and association with anemic conditions. Simultaneously, a unique sensor with user-friendly features was developed to promptly provide farmers with feedback on the anemic status of animals using AI-based machine learning algorithms, enabling timely intervention. The sensor utilized a semi-invasive approach with minimal blood sample requirement. 30 µL of blood was dropped on glycerol soaked Whatman filter paper No. 1, and images were taken at 90 sec, 150 sec, and 270 sec to capture the blood pattern on filter paper soaked in glycerol using a cell phone. These images were correlated with actual hematocrit value obtained from conventional hematocrit analysis. A RMSprop with adjusted learning rate convolution neural network (RMSprop-CNN) based images classification model was developed for the classification of different patterns at different levels of hematocrit. The model was trained on a total of 1,000 images with a training and testing split of 80:20 ratio. For the optimization process, the Adam optimizer with a learning rate of 0.001 is employed. The model is compiled with a categorical cross-entropy loss function, aiming to improve its accuracy metric over training iterations. The initial studies demonstrated a detection accuracy level of 70.31 % at 10 epochs in identifying different hematocrit levels (Level 1; healthy, to Level 5; severely anemic) but improved significantly up to 94.89 % by 100 epochs, resulting in a notable reduction in the time and level of knowledge previously necessary for conducting such evaluations. The present study not only provides valuable insights into the hematological characteristics of small ruminants, but also establishes a foundation for the development of a straightforward and efficient method for detecting anemia. Consequently, this advancement has the potential to enhance the overall care and well-being of animals within agricultural environments.

Zoonotic hookworms and roundworms affecting dogs and cats in Europe

Ascarids and ancylostomatids are parasitic nematodes that are significant to animal and human health. Widespread misconceptions have often contributed to a tendency among the general public and pet owners to underestimate the importance of these intestinal worms. Similarly, there is a low level of concern even within the veterinary community, despite the need to remain vigilant. Understanding the epidemiology, transmission pathways and clinical implications of these infections is crucial in mitigating their impact on public health and animal wellbeing. This article provides a brief overview of zoonotic hookworms and roundworms affecting dogs and cats in Europe, with a focus on their biology, patterns of transmission, associated diseases and strategies for prevention and control. The article emphasises the need for interdisciplinary collaboration between veterinary and human health sectors and the importance of awareness, early detection and effective management of these zoonotic parasites to safeguard both animal and human health.

Talking treats: A qualitative study to understand the importance of treats in the pet-caregiver relationship

Treats are a prevalent aspect of pet care, frequently given by dog and cat caregivers for varying reasons. However, recommendations of reducing or eliminating treat feeding poses a common challenge, leading to potential non-adherence surrounding weight management practices. To explore caregivers’ perceptions and experiences surrounding treat feeding, we conducted five online focus groups with 24 dog and cat caregivers, recruited via an infographic shared on social media using snowball sampling. NVivo12© was used to organize and analyze verbatim transcripts using inductive thematic analysis. Outcomes illustrated three major themes: 1) the role of treats as an important tool for caregivers; 2) considerations for treat selection and provision; and 3) caregivers’ need for more and better information and support related to treats. Participants emphasized the importance of treats for managing behaviours, health-related activities, and enhancing the pet-caregiver relationship. Results suggest that the diverse and valued applications of treats, caregivers’ satisfaction associated with treat-giving, and perceived lack of guidance surrounding treats may present challenges for caregivers in reducing treat feeding with their pets. Findings highlight opportunities to enhance the available resources that can empower both veterinary professionals and caregivers to make well-informed decisions and foster sustainable changes in treat feeding practices to support weight management and overall health. Such considerations can improve client compliance with veterinary recommendations, to promote companion animal health and well-being while fostering the human-animal bond.

Light: An Extrinsic Factor Influencing Animal-based Research.

Light is an environmental factor that is extrinsic to animals themselves and that exerts a profound influence on the regulation of circadian, neurohormonal, metabolic, and neurobehavioral systems of all animals, including research animals. These widespread biologic effects of light are mediated by distinct photoreceptors-rods and cones that comprise the conventional visual system and melanopsin-containing intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) of the nonvisual system that interact with the rods and cones. The rods and cones of the visual system, along with the ipRGCs of the nonvisual system, are species distinct in terms of opsins and opsin concentrations and interact with one another to provide vision and regulate circadian rhythms of neurohormonal and neurobehavioral responses to light. Here, we review a brief history of lighting technologies, the nature of light and circadian rhythms, our present understanding of mammalian photoreception, and current industry practices and standards. We also consider the implications of light for vivarium measurement, production, and technological application and provide simple recommendations on artificial lighting for use by regulatory authorities, lighting manufacturers, designers, engineers, researchers, and research animal care staff that ensure best practices for optimizing animal health and well-being and, ultimately, improving scientific outcomes.

Finding unveiled: Culex thalassius (Diptera: Culicidae), a new mosquito species emerges in the Cabo Verde archipelago.

Mosquito-borne diseases can pose significant burdens. In many countries, they pose a risk to national economies and the well-being of humans and animals. To mitigate this, mosquito surveillance is crucial to assess the real and potential transmission of mosquito-borne diseases. Between 2020 and 2023, mosquito larvae were collected from both indoor and outdoor breeding sites in urban and rural areas of 4 municipalities of Santiago and Boavista Islands in Cabo Verde. Mosquitoes were identified morphologically and by polymerase chain reaction-based techniques that targeted the mitochondrial cytochrome C oxidase subunit I sequence. During this period, 6,825 breeding sites were assessed, and of 8,094 mosquito specimens screened, 194 specimens of Culex thalassius were identified for the first time in the country in 4 municipalities of Santiago and Boavista Islands. This new finding highlights the importance of including entomological surveillance in health systems. Although this species has only been detected on a few islands, it is important to continuously monitor it to determine its distribution, spread/dispersal, density, and potential involvement in pathogen transmission.

More than a meat- or synthetic nitrogen fertiliser-substitute: a review of legume phytochemicals as drivers of 'One Health' via their influence on the functional diversity of soil- and gut-microbes.

Legumes are essential to healthy agroecosystems, with a rich phytochemical content that impacts overall human and animal well-being and environmental sustainability. While these phytochemicals can have both positive and negative effects, legumes have traditionally been bred to produce genotypes with lower levels of certain plant phytochemicals, specifically those commonly termed as 'antifeedants' including phenolic compounds, saponins, alkaloids, tannins, and raffinose family oligosaccharides (RFOs). However, when incorporated into a balanced diet, such legume phytochemicals can offer health benefits for both humans and animals. They can positively influence the human gut microbiome by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria, contributing to gut health, and demonstrating anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Beyond their nutritional value, legume phytochemicals also play a vital role in soil health. The phytochemical containing residues from their shoots and roots usually remain in-field to positively affect soil nutrient status and microbiome diversity, so enhancing soil functions and benefiting performance and yield of following crops. This review explores the role of legume phytochemicals from a 'one health' perspective, examining their on soil- and gut-microbial ecology, bridging the gap between human nutrition and agroecological science.

Microbial Diseases of Laboratory Animals and its monitoring Tools

Microbial diseases pose significant challenges in experimental research, impacting both animal welfare and research outcomes. The review covers a wide range of microbial pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, that commonly affect laboratory animals. It explores the etiology, pathogenesis, and clinical manifestations associated with these pathogens, highlighting their influence on experimental results. Extensively discussed about the monitoring assays employed for microbial disease detection in experimental animals. Traditional and modern techniques are considered, including microbiological culturing, serological assays, molecular diagnostics, histopathology, and advanced imaging methods. Regular health monitoring programs for laboratory animals, emphasizing the significance of early detection and intervention to prevent disease outbreaks and maintain animal welfare. Emerging trends and technologies in microbial disease monitoring, such as next-generation sequencing, metagenomics, and high-throughput screening, are also explored. This review aims to provide researchers, laboratory animal professionals, and regulatory authorities with a comprehensive resource for understanding microbial diseases in experimental animals and selecting appropriate monitoring assay. For the Scientists and Veterinarians this overall review gives a glimpse for implementing effective monitoring strategies, identifying and managing microbial diseases, ensuring the well-being of laboratory animals. The synthesis of current knowledge and best practices will enhance the scientific rigor and reproducibility of experimental studies involving animals. In conclusion, this review emphasizes the critical importance of microbial disease monitoring in experimental animals. Robust and accurate monitoring assays enable researchers to effectively detect and manage microbial diseases, safeguarding animal health and ensuring reliable research outcomes.

A novel thermophilic strain of Bacillus subtilis with antimicrobial activity and its potential application in solid-state fermentation of soybean meal.

Soybean meal (SBM) is the most important source of plant protein in animal feeds, containing around 41%-48% crude protein. Nevertheless, 70%-80% of these proteins is allergenic antigens that can have adverse implications for the gastrointestinal well-being of animals, especially to young animals. Microbial fermentation is one of the most cost-effective strategies used to reduce allergenic antigens from plant sources. In this study, we report the isolation and characterization of a novel probiotic Bacillus subtilis "L5" strain from lake mud. L5 demonstrated remarkable temperature tolerance across a broad temperature spectrum, thriving at 25°C, 37°C, and 50°C. In addition, antimicrobial assay revealed that L5 exhibits strong antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli, effectively reducing or eliminating the growth of Gram-negative bacteria in SBM when fermented with L5. When applied to SBM fermentation, L5 efficiently reduced SBM antinutritional factors such as glycinin, β-conglycinin, trypsin inhibitor, phytic acid, neutral detergent fiber, and acid detergent fiber, which in turn results in an increase in crude protein content and the free amino acid concentration. Our findings on the probiotic and fermentation capabilities of L5 suggest that this novel bacterium has dual functions that make it a strong candidate for improving the nutrient values of feed via its role in fermentation.IMPORTANCESoybean meal (SBM), containing 41%-48% crude protein, is the most important source of plant protein in animal feeds. Unfortunately, 70%-80% of the proteins in SBM is allergenic antigens including trypsin inhibition, β-conglycinin, and conglycinin, which negatively affect intestine health and function. Microbial solid-state fermentation methods have been applied to animal feeds for decades, to eliminate antinutritional factors. Here, a novel potential probiotic Bacillus subtilis "L5" strain with high enzymatic activity and antimicrobial activity will be a great help to improve the quality and reproducibility of SBM fermentation.

A systematic overview of metal nanoparticles as alternative disinfectants for emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants.

Coronaviruses are a diverse family of viruses, and new strains can emerge. While the majority of coronavirus strains cause mild respiratory illnesses, a few are responsible for severe diseases such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS). SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, is an example of a coronavirus that has led to a pandemic. Coronaviruses can mutate over time, potentially leading to the emergence of new variants. Some of these variants may have increased transmissibility or resistance to existing vaccines and treatments. The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic in the recent past has sparked innovation in curbing virus spread, with sanitizers and disinfectants taking center stage. These essential tools hinder pathogen dissemination, especially for unvaccinated or rapidly mutating viruses. The World Health Organization supports the use of alcohol-based sanitizers and disinfectants globally against pandemics. However, there are ongoing concerns about their widespread usage and their potential impact on human health, animal well-being, and ecological equilibrium. In this ever-changing scenario, metal nanoparticles hold promise in combating a range of pathogens, including SARS-CoV-2, as well as other viruses such as norovirus, influenza, and HIV-1. This review explores their potential as non-alcoholic champions against SARS-CoV-2 and other pandemics of tomorrow. This extends beyond metal nanoparticles and advocates a balanced examination of pandemic control tools, exploring their strengths and weaknesses. The manuscript thus involves the evaluation of metal nanoparticle-based alternative approaches as hand sanitizers and disinfectants, providing a comprehensive perspective on this critical issue.

Identifying Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) in <i>OsFER1</i> and <i>OsFER2</i> Genes Linked to Iron accumulation in Pigmented Indonesian Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Iron (Fe) is an essential micronutrient for the well-being of plants, animals, and bacteria. In plants, iron plays a pivotal role in a myriad of metabolic processes, encompassing redox reaction, photosynthesis, respiration, chlorophyll synthesis, and nitrogen fixation. For humans, iron is indespensable for several metabolic functions, particularly in the synthesis of haemoglobin. Iron deficiency can lead to health issues on a global scale, therefore identifying key crops, such as rice for providing sufficient iron in diet intake is very important. In rice, the maintenance of iron homeostasis is orchestrated by various genes, with OsFER1 and OsFER2 acting as iron accumulator genes in leaves, stems, flowers, and grains. The primary objective of this study was to ascertain the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in the OsFER1 and OsFER2 and to assess the iron content in Indonesian local rice cultivars. To achieve this, we examined partial sequences of OsFER1 and OsFER2 to identify SNPs in the Indonesian rice cultivars used (Cempo Ireng, Pari Ireng, Hitam Kalsel, Merah Pari Eja, and Ciherang). Concurrently, the iron content in the seeds was quantified using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS). The analysis revealed that the OsFER1 gene sequence, specifically exon 5, exhibited a SNP in the form of a transition. In contrast, the OsFER2 gene sequences, specifically in intron 2 displayed SNPs in the form of insertions. Notably, the iron content in the seeds was highest in Cempo Ireng (black rice), while it was lowest in Merah Pari Eja (red rice) and Ciherang (non-pigmented rice). Importantly, the identified SNPs in these partial gene sequences did not exert any discernible influence on iron levels or the formation of ferritin protein.

Embryotoxic Effects of Pesticides in Zebrafish (Danio rerio): Diflubenzuron, Pyriproxyfen, and Its Mixtures.

Diflubenzuron (DFB) and pyriproxyfen (PPF) are larvicides used in crops to control insect plagues. However, these pesticides are known to impact non-target organisms like fish and mammals. Here, we aimed at assessing the embryotoxicity of purified DFB, PPF, and their mixtures in a non-target organism-zebrafish. Zebrafish embryos were exposed to different concentrations for 120 h: 0.025, 0.125, 0.25, 1.25, 2.5, and 10 mg/L of purified PPF and purified DFB, while we used 0.025 mg/L PPF + 10 mg/L DFB (Mix A), 0.125 mg/L PPF + 10 mg/L DFB (Mix B), and 0.25 mg/L PPF + 10 mg/L DFB (Mix C) for the mixtures of PPF + DFB. We observed mortality, teratogenicity, and cardiotoxicity. For the neurotoxicity tests and evaluation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in the brain, embryos were exposed for 120 h to 0.379 and 0.754 mg/L of PPF and 0.025 and 0.125 mg/L of DFB. We established the LC50 for PPF as 3.79 mg/L, while the LC50 for DFB was not determinable. Survival and hatching were affected by PPF concentrations above 0.125 mg/L, DFB concentrations above 1.25 mg/L, and the lower pesticide mixtures. PPF exposure and mixtures induced different types of malformations, while a higher number of malformations were observed for the mixtures, suggesting a potentiating effect. Pesticides diminished avoidance responses and increased the levels of ROS across all concentrations, indicating neurotoxicity. Our findings underscore the detrimental impact of PPF and DFB exposure, spanning from biochemistry to morphology. There is a critical need to reconsider the global use of these pesticides and transition to more ecologically friendly forms of pest control, raising an alarm regarding repercussions on human and animal health and well-being.

Proteomics and Its Current Application in Biomedical Area: Concise Review.

Biomedical researchers tirelessly seek cutting-edge technologies to advance disease diagnosis, drug discovery, and therapeutic interventions, all aimed at enhancing human and animal well-being. Within this realm, proteomics stands out as a pivotal technology, focusing on extensive studies of protein composition, structure, function, and interactions. Proteomics, with its subdivisions of expression, structural, and functional proteomics, plays a crucial role in unraveling the complexities of biological systems. Various sophisticated techniques are employed in proteomics, including polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, mass spectrometry analysis, NMR spectroscopy, protein microarray, X-ray crystallography, and Edman sequencing. These methods collectively contribute to the comprehensive understanding of proteins and their roles in health and disease. In the biomedical field, proteomics finds widespread application in cancer research and diagnosis, stem cell studies, and the diagnosis and research of both infectious and noninfectious diseases. In addition, it plays a pivotal role in drug discovery and the emerging frontier of personalized medicine. The versatility of proteomics allows researchers to delve into the intricacies of molecular mechanisms, paving the way for innovative therapeutic approaches. As infectious and noninfectious diseases continue to emerge and the field of biomedical research expands, the significance of proteomics becomes increasingly evident. Keeping abreast of the latest developments in proteomics applications becomes paramount for the development of therapeutics, translational research, and study of diverse diseases. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of proteomics, offering a concise outline of its current applications in the biomedical domain. By doing so, it seeks to contribute to the understanding and advancement of proteomics, emphasizing its pivotal role in shaping the future of biomedical research and therapeutic interventions.

Higher offspring mortality in deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus bairdii) that spontaneously present with large nest building behaviour

Nesting is a normal, evolutionary conserved rodent behavioural phenotype that is expressed for purposes of breeding, safety, and thermal regulation. Further, nesting is commonly assessed as marker of overall rodent health and wellbeing, with poorer nesting performance generally proposed to resemble a worse state of health. Deer mice can be bidirectionally separated with 30 % of mice presenting with excessively large nesting behaviour (LNB). All laboratory-housed deer mice are exposed to identical environmental conditions. Thus, the functional purpose of LNB remains unknown. Considering the evolutionary functions of nesting, we hypothesized that LNB will be related to an inflated drive to breed and nurse offspring. After breeding two generations of offspring from six ‘normal’ nesting (NNB) and seven LNB expressing pairs, our data showed that while as fertile as NNB expressing pairs, offspring survival of LNB mice were notably worse (67.9 % vs. 98.3 %). In conclusion, variance in nesting behaviour should be considered when animal health and wellbeing is considered, since it may point to underlying biobehavioural perturbations.

Helping and not Harming Animals with AI

Ethical discussions about Artificial Intelligence (AI) often overlook its potentially large impact on nonhuman animals. In a recent commentary on our paper about AI’s possible harms, Leonie Bossert argues for a focus not just on the possible negative impacts but also the possible beneficial outcomes of AI for animals. We welcome this call to increase awareness of AI that helps animals: developing and using AI to improve animal wellbeing and promote positive dimensions in animal lives should be a vital ethical goal. Nonetheless, we argue that there is some value in focusing on technology-based harms in the context of AI ethics and policy discourses. A harms framework for AI can inform some of our strongest duties to animals and inform regulation and risk assessment impacts designed to prevent serious harms to humans, the environment, and animals.

Testing the potential antifungal activity of Origanum vulgare against Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus Niger and Talaromyces marneffei isolated from pets

Origanum vulgare (oregano) is an aromatic herb commonly used in the Mediterranean, widely known for its medicinal properties. In this experiment, we tested its antifungal properties against two species of Aspergillus (A. niger and A. fumigatus) and the emerging Talaromyces marneffei. We tested the plant’s antifungal activity in a range of concentrations (5, 10, 20 and 30 mg/mL) in which the plant was dissolved and mixed with growth medium (PDA) and then inoculated with the fungi. The percentage of inhibition was measured over 7 days with data being collected on the 3rd, 5th and 7th days. Fungal activity inhibition ranging from 30 to 100% was achieved against Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus fumigatus and from 50 to 100% against Talaromyces marneffei. This multi-disciplinary study brought the use of plants into the veterinary sciences by using samples isolated from pets, with the aim of researching potential alternatives to traditional antifungal treatments and the ultimate goal ofincreasing animal wellbeing.

Investigation of Climate Effects on the Physiological Parameters of Dairy Livestock (Cow vs. Buffalo).

Nowadays climate change is affecting the planet's biodiversity, and livestock practices must adapt themselves to improve production without affecting animal welfare. This work investigates the influence that some climatic parameters such as Environment Temperature, Relative Humidity, Thermal excursion and Temperature-Humidity Index (THI), can have on milk quantity and quality in two different dairy species (buffaloes and cows) raised on the same farm. A further aim was to understand if THI threshold used for cows could also be used for buffaloes. The climatic parameters were recorded daily through a meteorological station located inside the farm. Milk quantity (converted into ECM) and quality (Fat Percentage-FP; Protein Percentage-PP; Somatic Cell Count-SCC) were measured. Data were analyzed with Spearman's correlation index, separately for buffaloes and cows. The results indicate a greater sensitivity of cows to heat stress and a strong negative correlation of the ECM with meteorological data (p < 0.01). The results of this study may stimulate the use of integrated technologies (sensors, software) in the dairy sector, since the IoT (sensors, software) helps to enhance animal well-being and to optimize process costs, with a precision livestock farming approach.

Milk quality of ruminants fed with tannin-based diets

Tannins are found in various feeds and can produce numerous benefits to ruminants, such as preventing bloat, favoring a better use of dietary protein, increasing microbial protein synthesis, according to its concentration, molecular weight and structure. The tannins affect the digestibility of the protein, because they form complexes with dietary proteins, improving the duodenal flow of proteins, of some essential amino acids and of unsaturated fatty acids, modifying the profile of two fatty acids of meat and milk and age in rumen biohydrogenation, They provide faster growth rates of live weight, higher milk production, increased fertility and reduction of the parasite load, improving the animal's well-being and health. The nutritional effects of two tannins may vary according to the type of tannin used and the level of inclusion in the diet, its chemical structure and molecular weight, the quantity ingested, the species or animal category involved and the energy and protein balance of the diet.

Organic food and its health benefits for humans and how it differs from regular food : Review.

As public awareness of organic food products' advantages for health, social convenience, the environment, and sustainable development has grown, so has their knowledge of their benefits. Gaining understanding of consumer views is crucial for the sector as it continues to grow. The current study was methodically created to assess the strength of the data supporting the benefits of feeding organic foods to health. Foods labeled as organic are produced utilizing only natural fertilizers. The regulations around organic animal production are extensive and impact various aspects such as nutrition, reproduction, housing, medical care, and treatment. Additionally, these foods are not produced using genetically modified pesticides or insecticides. Animals raised in organic farms are given more space to live in than those raised in conventional systems, and they are also required to consume organic feed, straw bedding, and roughage. The fatty acid composition of milk, eggs, and meat is significantly influenced by the animal diet. Breed selection is used in connection to animal health and wellbeing; proper diet, husbandry, and management all contribute to illness prevention and improved animal welfare. Antimicrobial durability is a global public health concern these days, and many international health organizations recognize that it poses a threat to the current health care system. Thus, the market's demand for organic products and their simplicity of use has grown over the past several years, contributing significantly to the economy. Because organic food is healthier and less likely to contain chemicals, many people are beginning to choose it over conventional food. As a result, raising consumer knowledge of the value of organic products and supporting their production is crucial for the growth of organic farming and the production of pure water. The market for organic food products is growing quickly because consumers believe that organic food may be healthier than conventional food and has a superior nutritional profile.

Evaluation of a One Health Clinic: Enhancing access to healthcare and housing for young adults experiencing homelessness with animals

Abstract The One Health Clinic (OHC) is a transdisciplinary approach to healthcare services delivery, providing low-barrier healthcare and community services for people experiencing homelessness (PEH) and their companion animals that integrate human, animal, and environmental health. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of an OHC model in a youth and young adult shelter on access to healthcare, housing, and community resources. Researchers conducted semi-structured interviews with six OHC client participants and three provider participants, and a thematic analysis was used to study the effects of the OHC model on two key outcomes: overall health for humans and their companion animal(s), and access to public services for humans and their companion animal(s). Results showed that the OHC model provides multiple services in one place which reduces barriers to accessing health services, housing, and community resources. The integrated healthcare services promote positive interactions with providers and facilitate access to healthcare, housing, and community resources for PEH and their companion animals. Settings with similar goals of client health and access to healthcare, as well as housing services and community resources, can utilize the OHC care model to integrate services for lower barrier access to healthcare and community services to promote health on an individual level and from a One Health perspective. One Health impact statement Our study on the OHC model demonstrates the tangible impact of integrating healthcare services for homeless young adults and their companion animals. In the One Health context, our work addresses the complex interplay between human, animal, and environmental well-being. By bridging healthcare, housing, and community resources, the OHC model enhances access and reduces barriers. The One Health approach enriches impact, as collaboration across sectors yields multifaceted benefits. The transdisciplinary nature of our research fuses academic and non-academic knowledge, ensuring a holistic perspective. Practical solutions emerge from diverse insights, transcending traditional boundaries. This co-produced transformational knowledge facilitates real-world change, impacting lives, promoting resilience, and fostering sustainability. The OHC model exemplifies how cooperative, transdisciplinary efforts yield breakthroughs that elevate health, save lives, and nurture the optimal environment for people and their companion animals to live, work, and play.

THE EFFECT OF CAGE DENSITY ON SEVERAL HEALTH VARIABLES OF ETAWAH CROSSBREDS IN PEMPATAN VILLAGE KARANGASEM REGENCY BALI

&#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D; Cage density, sanitation frequency, and cage type affect on animal wellbeing and cage environment thus the he- alth of goats. However, its benefits on animal’s health have not been well applied by farmers in Bali. This study was conducted from March until July 2021 to observe the effect of cage density on health variables of PE goats reared by farmers in Pempatan Village. A Compare Means T-test research design with two comparisons of 3 and 2.1 m2/ goat cage density with three replications using 90 goats used in this study. Parameters observed were FAMACHA© score, body weight, ADGW, endo-parasite, level of red and white blood cells of goats. Results showed the cage den- sities had significant differences only for Paramphistomum sp.; goats in cage density 3 m2/goat were not infected by, whereas goats in cage density 2.1 m2/goat got infected by 1.11 ± 0.76 EPG. Ostertagia sp., and Haemoncus contortus sp. infected goats in both densities, but were categorized as mild. The cage density 3 and 2.1 m2/goat had ADGW of 81.74 ± 32.01 g and 48.29 ± 25.51 g, respectively. Goats in this study had standard of healthy goats. In summary, goats in cage density 3 m2/goat tended having better health statuses.&#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D;