Document type: Scientific review published in the Journal of Animal Behaviour and Biometeorology
Authors: Nancy José-Pérez, Daniel Mota-Rojas, Marcelo Ghezzi, Marcelo Rosmini, Patricia Mora Medina, Aldo Bertoni, Daniela Rodríguez-González, Adriana Domínguez-Oliva, Isabel Guerrero Legarreta
Preview: It is well known that transporting livestock is stressful for the animals and a primary cause of skin lesions. The effects of transport on the water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) have not been studied extensively despite reports of high incidences of trauma during and after these mobilizations. The present review article analyzes the frequency of skin injuries suffered by water buffaloes during transport and several key contributing factors. It also discusses the consequences of injuries on the quality of carcasses. Important aspects identified include inappropriate vehicle design that does not comply with the dimensions recommended by international institutions (e.g., height, type of flooring, characteristics of the ramp), handling methods, and the ability of stockpeople to manage water buffaloes, all of which impact the incidence of injuries. Our analysis of these elements will contribute to identifying critical control points and areas of opportunity while also suggesting strategies to ensure the welfare of these animals during transport and the quality of water buffalo products and by-products.
