Effects of transportation and thermal stress on donkeys in the Northern Guinea Savannah zone of Nigeria: A review

Abstract

The paper reviews transportation stress and its negative effects on physiological parameters of livestock, with emphasis on the Guinea Savannah zone of Nigeria. Stress factors acting on animals during road transportation are numerous and the responses of animals to them are complex, non-specific and often detrimental to their health and productivity. In spite of the numerous recommendations and guidelines by many countries on the welfare of animal transport order and their strict compliance by transporters, several studies report severe welfare problems during road transportation of food animals. The impact of the stress on donkeys was also reviewed. It is concluded that measures to alleviate the adverse effects of road transportation stress in livestock will improve their welfare and health.   Key words: Transportation stress, donkeys, stress, welfare, health.