Assessment of Welfare of Working Donkeys and Mules Using Health and Behavior Parameters
Asif Hameed, Muhammad Tariq and Muhammad Asim Yasin
Full Length Research Paper I Published June,2016
Journal of Agricultural Science and Food Technology
ABSTRACT
Despite their valuable contributions, mules and donkeys are
the most neglected animal, accorded low social status,
frequently subjected to overloading, beating, injuries and
compelled for long working hours. It is regrettable that
these animals are not well cared for, thus reducing their
draught capabilities. A protocol was used to assess the
welfare of working mules and donkeys using direct
observation of health and behavior parameters. In this
study, 1200 Mules and donkeys used for transportation,
draught and ridden work in different areas of Punjab was
assessed. Overall, 20% animals were found severely
depressed, while 34% showed no response when approached.
Eyes and mucous membrane abnormalities were present in 57.5%
and 10.5% Mules and Donkeys. Lip lesions, missing of teeth
and presences of molar or sharp edges were present in 47, 14
and 92.5%, respectively. Only 8.5% Mules and Donkeys were
found in shinning coat condition, while (22%) were in rough
body condition. Lesions on head and ear, neck, breast,
wither, girth, shoulder, ribs and belly, spine, tail and
tail base, hind quarters, hind legs, knee joints and fore
legs were present in order of 11, 9, 32, 40, 45.5, 20, 23.7,
10.5, 24.5, 17.0, 10.5, 22.5 and 28.5%, respectively. Knee
lesions, hock lesions, swelling of tendons and joints and
deformed limbs were prevalent in 75.0, 55.0, 91 and 9%
animals, respectively. Bases on these results welfare needs
priority which is not only for their well-being but will
also improve the economic status of the owner.
Key Words: Behavior, Cruelty, Donkeys, Mules and
Welfare.
- Journal of Agricultural Science and Food Technology (JASFT)
- Journal of Medical and Biological Science Research (JMBSR)
- Journal of Scientific Research and Essays (JSRE)
- Research Journal of Educational Studies and Review (RJESR)
- Journal of Physical Science and Environmental Studies (JPSES)
- Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (RJET)
- Pearl Journal of Management, Social Science and Humanities (PJMSSH)