Road Transport: A Review of Its Effects on the Welfare of Piglets

Abstract

The purpose of this review is to present the best available scientific knowledge on key effects of pre-transport and transport factors influencing the response of piglets to transport stress and post-transport recovery. To date, research on piglet transportation particularly focused on the effects of season (i.e., heat and cold stress), vehicle design features (ventilation type and deck/compartment location), space allowance and transport duration, and piglet genetics. More specifically, in this review the effect of transport duration has been dealt with through its impact on death rate, behaviour and physiological response, and feeling of hunger and thirst. Based on the available literature, clear conclusions can be drawn on the vulnerability of piglets to heat stress during transport. Both short and long transportation have an effect on piglet welfare, with effects being biased by the genetic background, ambient conditions and vehicle design. Further studies investigating the impact of factors such as vehicle design, truck stocking density and environment, piglet genetic background, and weaning age are needed.

Effect of Short-Term Road Transportation on Vital Parameters, ‎Haematology, Enzymatic Antioxidants and Cortisol Level of Healthy Dogs ‎‎(Canis Familiaris)‎

“…Dogs are been transported for various reasons, and transportation has numerous effects on dogs which varies depending on the dog's resistance, tolerance, repeated exposure and adaptation. However, transportation has been established to affect the welfare of animals generally (Zappaterra et al, 2023). This research will provide information on whether or not transportation has a detrimental effect on Nigeria indigenous breeds of dogs.…”