Abstract
The effects of transportation on oxidative stress biomarkers, rectal (R-T) and skin temperature (S-T) in male Aardi goats (Capra aegagrus hircus) were investigated. Fifteen animals of 9-12 months age, and 33.6-42.9 kg body weight were used in this study. Goats were transported for 240 km for 3 hrs, and 480 km for 6 hours. Blood samples were collected at 0 (pre-transportation); and at 30, 60, 120, and 240 minutes, and 24 hrs post transportation. Both distances resulted in a significant (P < 0.05) increase in plasma malondialadehyde (MDA) levels and significant (P < 0.05) decrease in superoxide dismutase (SOD) and total antioxidant contents (TAC) levels post transportation. Plasma zinc and copper levels showed non insignificant differences post-transportation, irrespective of the distance. Both rectal temperature (R-T) and skin temperature (S-T) after transportation, but R-T was significant (P < 0.05) at 240 km, while S-T was significant (P < 0.05) at 480 km. In conclusion, transportation decreased the antioxidant status in Aardi goat, and supplemental antioxidant prior transportation may negate these effects.