The effects of transportation on antioxidative biomarkers, rectal and skin temperatures in Aardi goats

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) increased 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.