Modulating Effect of Ascorbic Acid, Electrolyte, Jaggery on Transport-Induced Immunosuppression in Tropical Goats in Hot Humid and Winter Seasons

Abstract

Present study was undertaken to evaluate the seasonal effects of transportation of goats (Alpine x Beetle) at different flocking densities, supplemented with Vitamin C in group I, Vitamin C + electrolyte in group II and Jaggery in group III, 3 days before transport of animal, during winter and hot-humid seasons. The goats were selected 10-12 months old, divided into high (15) and low (10) flocking densities, transported for 8h with average speed of 25 Km/h. All the animals were kept off-feed and deprived of water during the transportation period. Blood samples were taken just before transportation, immediately after transportation, 6hrs, 12 hrs, 24 hrs and 2 days post transportation from all the three groups, and were further analysed for estimation of different haematological parameters (WBC, neutrophil, lymphocyte and NL ratio). Maximum values (P<0.05) of WBC, Neutrophils , NL ratio and minimum value (P<0.05) of lymphocytes were observed just after unloading which then returned to normal values within 6-12 hours post-transportation at low and high flocking density in both the seasons. Among the supplements provided (Vitamin C, Vitamin C + electrolyte and jaggery), Vitamin C + electrolyte combination proved more beneficial in alleviating transportation stress in the goats.