Electronic Theses and Dissertations
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Browsing Electronic Theses and Dissertations by Department "Agricultural Sciences & Engineering Technology"
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Item Comparing natural vegetation and food plot preference in captive white-tailed deer(2020-04-13) Mcqueen, Robert W; Beverly, Marcy MSupplemental feed is the most expensive input in the captive white-tailed deer and exotic wildlife industries. This is due to operations utilizing high energy/high protein pellets as supplemental feed. To combat this, low fence operations often plant food plots with high quality vegetation to minimize cost and increase forage availability for wildlife. The objective of this study was to determine forage preference of wildlife species in captivity. Seven food plots comprising of twenty-five acres were planted with one of three forage blends. The treatments were, a commercial blend of soybeans, a commercial blend of soybeans, sunflowers, and milo, and an unplanted, natural vegetation. Utilization cages were distributed in all treatment plots to prevent wildlife access to areas and serve as ungrazed control sample. Vegetative samples, inside and outside of the utilization cages, were collected on days 30, 60, and 90 after planting. Vegetative weights on days 60 and 90 supporting consumption of the commercial blends, (P < 0.05), over the unplanted, natural vegetation treatment. This data illustrates that the preferred forage for white-tailed deer and exotics were the commercial blends of forages. Decreased consumption of feed pellets suggests a cost savings and implies food plots were preferred.Item Confidence Levels of Texas Entry Year Agricultural Science Teachers in Agricultural Mechanics Related Skills(2019-04-09) Key, Robyn L.; Saucier, Philip R.; Pavelock, Dwayne; Ullrich, Doug R.The purpose of this study was to examine the confidence levels and level of university preparation of entry year, Texas Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources (AFNR) teachers regarding the instruction of agricultural mechanics related skills. During the 2018 Vocational Agriculture Teachers Association of Texas (VATAT) first year teacher workshop (n = 143) received a survey instrument titled: The Agricultural Mechanics Skills Assessment. A total of 143 ( %) first year teachers during the 2018 – 2019 school year completed this instrument. This instrument consisted of four sections that included: confidence levels to teach agricultural mechanics skills, instruction of skills at the university level and the teaching methods used to teach those skills, professional development format preferences, and demographics information. Additionally, the researcher utilized a simultaneous multiple linear regression to explain if there is a relationship between teachers’ confidence levels to teach agricultural mechanics skills and the instructional methods used to teach them those skills. The two skill areas that teachers felt most confident about teaching hand tools skills and employability/career skills, which was only categorized as moderately confident. Whereas, participants had no confidence in teaching pneumatics, hydraulics, modern machinery technology, and multi-cylinder engines. A low percentage of participants indicated that they were taught concrete, fencing, hydraulics, modern machinery technology, and pneumatics. Out of the 13 professional development formats identified by this study, only the multi-day during summer workshop format resulted in more than 50% of respondents preferring that format. Furthermore, teachers’ confidence in 23 of the 24 skill areas could be explained by the application project teaching method.Item DETERMINATION OF BLOOD MICROMINERAL AND FAT-SOLUBLE VITAMIN VALUES FOR WHITE-TAILED DEER(2021-05-01T05:00:00.000Z) Greenwood, Megan P.; Kelley, Stanley FThe current National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) for micromineral and vitamin requirements for cervids are based on data collected from various small ruminant species. Lack of baseline requirements make diet formulation for high fenced, white-tailed deer (Odocoileis virginianus) herds particularly ambiguous. This study was to determine a baseline value for whole blood and serum micromineral and vitamin concentrations for white-tailed deer in an attempt to establish dietary requirements of microminerals and vitamins. Open does (n=223) were sampled using jugular venipuncture during fall breeding procedures. Captive-raised does housed at various high fenced ranches (n=3) throughout Texas were used, each with unique management strategies. Blood samples were analyzed for micromineral levels (Co, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Se, and Zn) and fat-soluble metabolites (vitamin A, vitamin E, measured as α-tocopherol, and cholesterol). Age of the doe and ranch were used as main effects using the GLM procedure in SAS. Sampled averages were 6.31 ng/mL of Co, 1.04 µg/mL of Cu, 220.41 µg/mL of Fe, 4.43 ng/mL of Mn, 4.23 ng/mL of Mo, 172.48 ng/mL of Se, 0.54 µg/mL of Zn, 275.25 ng/mL of vitamin A, 1.80 µg/mL of vitamin E, and 79.61 of cholesterol. Ranch played an important role in micronutrient levels, with the exception of cholesterol (P=0.26). Micronutrient least squared means were also affected by age for Se, Zn, and vitamin E (P<.01). Pregnancy status was determined (n=93) via jugular venipuncture 30-37 d after breeding procedure. Females that became pregnant at initial breeding attempt had significantly higher serum Zn (P<.01) and vitamin E (P=0.03) levels. Factors such as feed, forage, soil, genetics, and health management protocols could explain the variance in values. The establishment of circulating blood micronutrient levels will serve as a baseline for future white-tailed deer nutrient requirement research and feed formulation.Item Evaluating sources of omega-3 fatty acids for their benefits on late gestation mares and neonatal foals.(2020-11-30) Snyder, Erika A; Bedore, Jessica SMaternal supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids during late gestation has been shown to have a variety of benefits on the dam and resulting offspring. However, research in mares and foals is limited. The current study utilized 13 American Quarter Horse mares and their foals, assigned to one of three dietary treatments: a control basal diet (CON, n=5), a basal diet with the addition of a marine algae supplement (ALG, n=5) or a basal diet with the addition of a flaxseed supplement (FLAX, n=3). Mares were placed on treatments 30 days before their expected foaling date and continued through day 5 post- parturition. Samples of plasma were collected from mares prior to beginning supplementation, day 0 post-parturition, day 5 and day 30 post-parturition. Milk samples were collected from mares at day 0, 5 and 30 post-parturition. Plasma samples were collected from foals at birth, day 5 and day 30 post-parturition. Fatty acid compositions of mare plasma, mare milk and foal plasma were determined. Data was analyzed using the MIXED procedure of SAS. Foals born to supplemented mares exhibited increased plasma DHA levels at birth and foals born to ALG mares had greater plasma EPA levels. Samples obtained from foals at birth prior to nursing had the highest DHA content compared to all other samples. No differences were observed in mare plasma or milk. The results of the foal plasma suggest the most efficient avenue for increasing foal DHA levels is through maternal supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids in late gestation and that supplementation for the final 30 days of gestation is sufficient to see changes.Item Evaluation of a Starter Ration on Growth and Performance of White-Tailed Deer FawnsSain, Matlin Ann; Stutts, Kyle J.Until recently, there was not a ration available to the Texas white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) industry that was designed specifically for fawns. Common practice for pen-raised white-tailed deer breeders is to provide fawns with a ration that is formulated for mature deer. The objective of this study was to evaluate growth and performance of fawns on a new starter ration and to evaluate a dietary supplement designed to enhance the immune system of young fawns. To achieve this, 44 white-tailed deer fawns (26 female, 18 male; 14 d of age) from an established herd (3-S Ranch, Bedias, TX) were randomly assigned to one of two diets. Twenty-two fawns received the control diet (16% CP, 71.6 % TDN, 2.12 % Ca, 0.96 % P, and 0.47 % Mg), which was a pelleted feed formulated for mature deer when limited forbs and browse are available, and 22 fawns received the treatment diet (22% CP, 79.5 % TDN, 1.90 % Ca, 0.63 % P, and 0.31 % Mg), which was also a pelleted feed, but one specifically formulated for young, growing fawns. The treatment diet also contained a proprietary supplement designed to enhance immunity. All fawns in the study were removed from their dams shortly after birth and were bottle-fed using a milk replacer for white-tailed deer according to ranch protocol. Feed was first offered when fawns were 14 d of age and feed intake was recorded daily through 140 d of age. Growth measurements including cannon length, leg length, body length, heart girth circumference, and BW were recorded every 2 wk from d 0 to 140. Data were analyzed using the PROC MIXED procedure of SAS for the effects of diet and day and the diet x day interaction. Male fawns consuming the treatment ration had a greater ADG (P<0.05) than male fawns on the control diet. However, there was no effect of diet on cannon length, leg length, body length, heart girth circumference, or body weight for female or male fawns. Additionally, there was no difference in morbidity, mortality, or the number of days treated for illness between the fawns on the different diets. These data reveal that there is an inconsequential difference in growth and performance of fawns consuming the two different rations; however, fawns required a greater daily intake of the less nutrient dense ration formulated for mature deer to achieve the same level of performance observed in the fawns consuming the starter ration. In addition, these data indicate that white-tailed deer fawns may rely on metabolic signals to regulate feed intake.Item EVALUATION OF DIFFERENT METHODS OF INSEMINATION ON CONCEPTION RATE TO FIXED-TIME INSEMINATION OF EUROPEAN FALLOW DEER (DAMA DAMA)(2021-05-01T05:00:00.000Z) Ortega, Sara Joy; Stutts, Kyle JThe objective of this research was to evaluate methods of insemination on conception rate to fixed-time insemination (FTAI) following estrous synchronization of fallow does. Mature European fallow does (n = 120) from an established herd (3-S Texas Outdoors, Bedias, Tx) were utilized to evaluate conception rate to fixed-time insemination using two different insemination methods. The does were synchronized with controlled internal drug release (CIDR) devices which were inserted for 14 d as a source of supplemental progesterone and received an intramuscular (i.m.) injection of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG; 0.25 mg) at the time of the CIDR device removal to stimulate follicle development and ovulation. The does were then inseminated through previously established cervical or laparoscopic insemination techniques. A subsample of does were implanted with embryos collected from donor females 6 d after laparoscopic intrauterine insemination. All does within the study group were evaluated by ultrasonography 65 days after artificial insemination (AI) and conception was confirmed by the presence of a fetus, fetal heartbeat, and fluid within the uterus. Pregnancy rate to laparoscopic insemination (30.2%) and cervical insemination (16.7%) were both lower compared to results from previous studies in New Zealand. The dates and times of conception for each method of AI and embryo transfer (ET) indicated there were no differences in conception rate between laparoscopic intrauterine insemination when compared to cervical AI (P < 0.07). Logistic regression also indicated there was no effect of method (P < 0.63) on pregnancy rate to FTAI. These data indicate no difference in conception rate when utilizing different AI methods within fallow deer when synchronization protocols are consistent. Pregnancy rate for embryo transfer was 37.8% which was lower than results from previous studies in New Zealand. The unsatisfactory conception rates to AI and ET indicate that more research is needed to determine the optimal protocol for estrous synchronization and AI in fallow does within the United States.Item EVALUATION OF DIFFERENT METHODS OF INSEMINATION ON CONCEPTION RATE TO FIXED-TIME INSEMINATION OF EUROPEAN FALLOW DEER (DAMA DAMA)(2021-05-01T05:00:00.000Z) Ortega, Sara Joy; Stutts, Kyle JThe objective of this research was to evaluate methods of insemination on conception rate to fixed-time insemination (FTAI) following estrous synchronization of fallow does. Mature European fallow does (n = 120) from an established herd (3-S Texas Outdoors, Bedias, Tx) were utilized to evaluate conception rate to fixed-time insemination using two different insemination methods. The does were synchronized with controlled internal drug release (CIDR) devices which were inserted for 14 d as a source of supplemental progesterone and received an intramuscular (i.m.) injection of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG; 0.25 mg) at the time of the CIDR device removal to stimulate follicle development and ovulation. The does were then inseminated through previously established cervical or laparoscopic insemination techniques. A subsample of does were implanted with embryos collected from donor females 6 d after laparoscopic intrauterine insemination. All does within the study group were evaluated by ultrasonography 65 days after artificial insemination (AI) and conception was confirmed by the presence of a fetus, fetal heartbeat, and fluid within the uterus. Pregnancy rate to laparoscopic insemination (30.2%) and cervical insemination (16.7%) were both lower compared to results from previous studies in New Zealand. The dates and times of conception for each method of AI and embryo transfer (ET) indicated there were no differences in conception rate between laparoscopic intrauterine insemination when compared to cervical AI (P < 0.07). Logistic regression also indicated there was no effect of method (P < 0.63) on pregnancy rate to FTAI. These data indicate no difference in conception rate when utilizing different AI methods within fallow deer when synchronization protocols are consistent. Pregnancy rate for embryo transfer was 37.8% which was lower than results from previous studies in New Zealand. The unsatisfactory conception rates to AI and ET indicate that more research is needed to determine the optimal protocol for estrous synchronization and AI in fallow does within the United States.Item Evaluation of growth and performance of white-tailed deer consuming different milk replacers(2019-07-12) Brindza, Elizabeth Ann; Stutts, KyleIn recent years, the number of ranches in the state of Texas designated for the breeding and production of white-tailed deer has risen. As the number of ranches increases, it is important for there to be a quality milk alternative for fawns rejected by their mother, fawns that are too weak to nurse, or in the event that the mother is unable to produce a quality milk. The objective of this research was to evaluate growth and performance of white-tailed deer fawns on two commercially available milk replacers as well as to determine fawn preference for these milk replacers. A total of 51 fawns were utilized in this project with 26 fawns (n = 26) consuming the control and 25 fawns (n = 25) consuming the treatment. Shortly after birth fawns received a B-12 supplement, fawn paste, and an ear tag for identification purposes. At this time, initial morphological measurements were taken and a blood sample was drawn from the fawn. Growth measurements were taken every 3 weeks and included body weight, cannon bone length, leg length, body length, and heart girth circumference. Fawns were assigned a milk replacer on a rotational basis where they consumed that specific milk replacer for the entire trial, approximately 90 days. Consumption and refusals were measured at each feeding in a specific folder for each fawn. Upon completion of the trial results indicated that fawns consuming the control had statistically larger body weights, cannon bone length, and heart girth circumference measurements compared to the fawns consuming the treatment.Item Evaluation of passive transfer immunity and predicting survivability in newborn white-tailed deer fawns(2017-04-17) Evers, Elizabeth Erin; Stutts, Kyle J.; Leatherwood, Jessica L.; Anderson, Mark J.Industry standards for successful passive transfer have been established for major livestock species; however, benchmarks have yet to be determined for pen-raised white-tailed deer fawns (Odocoileus virginianus). The objectives of this study were to determine an on-farm methodology to indicate successful passive transfer of immunity and to identify physical characteristics that may be used to predict the survivability of pen-raised white-tailed deer fawns. Fawns (n = 153) born to 88 white-tailed does (1.5 to 7.5 yr; 40-80 kg) from an established herd were utilized in this study. Measurements including BW, body length, and cannon bone length were obtained biweekly from birth to six wk of age. At 24 h of age, blood samples were obtained via jugular venipuncture. Blood was analyzed on-farm using a handheld digital refractometer. Both whole blood and serum were analyzed for total protein concentration, IgG concentration, and a Brix value that was determined using a scale adapted for on-farm use on dairies. Serum IgG concentration was also quantified by radial immunodiffusion (RID). Data were analyzed using the LOGISTIC, MIXED, and CORR procedures of SAS. During the trial, fawn mortality rate was 21.6%. The logistic procedure indicated that serum Brix values (P < 0.01) and serum IgG concentration (P < 0.02) at birth were useful for predicting survivability of fawns. Fawns that survived had greater serum Brix values (8.93 ± 0.17 vs 7.55 ± 0.35 °Brix) and serum IgG concentrations (9.51 ± 0.66 vs 6.80 ± 1.40 g/L) than fawns that died. In addition, there was a strong positive relationship (P < 0.01) between all on-farm serum measurements and results of the RID (r = 0.87). Body measurements obtained were not predictors of survivability (P ≥ 0.12), however, there were differences between fawns that survived and those that died. Fawns that survived had a greater (P < 0.02) cannon length (18.39 ± 0.10 vs 17.79 ± 0.23 cm) and BW (2.74 ± 0.05 vs 2.33 ± 0.12 kg) at birth than fawns that died. These results indicate that on-farm measurements to estimate successful passive transfer immunity may be used to help predict survivability in white-tailed deer fawns.Item Factors Affecting Pregnancy Rate to Fixed-Time Artificial Insemination in Pen-Raised White-tailed DeerCordova, Jacqueline P.; Stutts, Kyle J.White-tailed deer farming has experienced significant growth in recent years in the U.S. with the majority of the operations located in Texas. Producers now utilize advanced breeding technologies in deer similar to cattle and other livestock to enhance the genetic merit of their herd. The goal is to produce the best quality bucks to sell as stocker bucks for high priced hunts or breeding. Pen-raised white-tailed does (n=177; 1 to 6 yr; 28.5 to 72.5 kg) from an established breeding program (3-S Whitetails, Bedias, TX) were utilized to evaluate factors affecting pregnancy rate to fixed-time AI (FTAI) across four breeding seasons combined (2013-2016). Does were synchronized using a 14-d controlled internal drug release (CIDR; EAZI-Breed CIDR, Zoetis, Inc., Kalamazoo, MI) device as a progesterone source with an injection (i.m.) of eCG (200 IU) at CIDR removal and inseminated laparoscopically 60 h later. At the time of FTAI, BW, BCS, and disposition score (DISP) were recorded and a blood sample was collected via jugular venipuncture to determine serum cortisol concentration. All does were subsequently placed in a pen with a buck for natural service (NAT) to maximize overall pregnancy rate of the herd. DNA testing of each fawn determined parentage and birth dates based on records from the producer were used to determine method of conception (FTAI or NAT). Serum cortisol concentrations were determined via ELISA. Data were analyzed using the GLM, MIXED, LOGISTIC and CORR procedures of SAS. There were no significant differences (P>0.05) found in BW, age, BCS, DISP, or serum cortisol concentration between does that conceived to FTAI and those that did not. Pregnancy rate to FTAI was 61% and overall pregnancy rate (FTAI and NAT) was 86%. Mean litter size was greater (P<0.02) for FTAI (1.79) than NAT (1.48). Does that did not conceive to FTAI had lower (P<0.05) BW, BCS and were younger (P<0.05) than does that conceived to FTAI. In summary, additional research is needed to determine if any of the physiological factors measured in this study have a significant influence on conception rate to FTAI.Item How Safe are Selected Texas School-Based Agricultural Mechanics Laboratories?: A Review of Teachers' Safety Perceptions(2021-04-27) Leamon, Cassidy; Saucier, Philip RThe purpose of this study was to evaluate the safe working conditions in Texas agricultural mechanics laboratories. Researchers sought to identify the personal, professional, and program demographics of the teachers who instruct in the laboratories and the laboratories themselves. A survey was distributed in an online format to agricultural mechanics teachers across the state of Texas. A total of 133 (f = 55%) agricultural mechanics teachers responded to the survey. The instrument consisted of nine sections that included: demographics, general safety conditions, general appearance, personal protective equipment, condition of hand and power tools, electrical, fire safety, compressed gas cylinders safety, and storage in the agricultural mechanics laboratory. Frequency, percentages, mean, and standard deviation was used to analyze the data that was collected. It was found that the majority of agricultural mechanics teachers were self-perceived as safe in their agricultural mechanics laboratory, besides specific areas. It is recommended that agricultural mechanics teachers make sure they have all the proper safety equipment, attend workshops that are provided, and understand how to safely teach their students in an agricultural mechanics laboratory.Item Influence of Ambient Temperature and Relative Humidity on Young Performance Horses(2017-04-18) Carlson, Kelly S.; Stutts, Kyle J.; Leatherwood, Jessica L.; Anderson, Mark J.Heat stress is a concern in performance horses due to the daily exercise they receive. To determine the influence of ambient temperature and relative humidity on young performance horses, twelve Quarter Horses (2-3 yr, 444 kg) were utilized in a randomized complete block design for a 5-wk study. Horses were stratified by age, sex, and weight between exercise treatments. Exercise treatments consisted of a morning (AM; n = 6) and an afternoon (PM; n = 6) exercise bout to evaluate the effects of differing temperatures and humidity on physiological characteristics of horses. The mean ambient temperature for the AM exercise bout was 16˚C with a mean relative humidity of 81%, while the mean ambient temperature for the PM exercise bout was 29˚C with a mean relative humidity of 38%. Whole blood lactate (LAC), heart rate (HR), respiration rate (RR), rectal temperature (RT), and circumferences and temperatures of the carpal and metacarpal joints, were measured immediately prior and immediately following the standardized exercise bout on d 14, 21, 28, and 35. HR, RR, and RT were measured 30 min into the recovery period and LAC was measured 2 and 24 h into the recovery period. Circumferences and temperatures of the joints were also measured 24 h into the recovery period. Differences in parameters measured were determined using the GLM procedure of SAS and the 0 min data was used as a covariate to account for differences among horses that existed prior to exercise. RR, RT, and HR were greater (P < 0.01) in the PM group after exercise and in the recovery period compared to the AM group. Two hours into the recovery period, the PM group had a greater LAC (P < 0.05). This indicates that the horses may have had an impaired ability to dissipate heat during the recovery period due to the higher ambient temperatures. Understanding the physiological responses of horses during recovery at different ambient temperatures, may enable industry professionals to modify daily exercise regimens to allow the equine athlete to perform at their full potential and prevent injury or harm to the animal.Item Influence of conjugated linoleic acid supplementation on body composition of weaned pigs(2017-04-12) Lindsey, Christina Espindola; Beverly, Marcy M.; Kelley, Stanley F.; Anderson, Mark J.; Stutts, Kyle J.Cross bred gilts (n=32), that were approximately 8 wk old with a mean BW of 16 kg, were used in a randomized complete block design to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) on body composition of weaned, growing pigs. The pigs were blocked by weight and randomly assigned to a treatment group; control treatment group (n=8), 0.33% CLA (n=8), 0.66% CLA (n=8), and 1.0% CLA (n=8). Feed was distributed via self-feeders, ad libitum, and CLA supplementation was administered as an oral drench daily at 0600. Body weights were recorded every 7 d, 10th rib back fat thickness was measured every 14 d via ultrasonography, longissimus muscle area (LMA) was measured via ultrasonography on d 0, 42, and 84. Data was analyzed using the mixed procedure of SAS. There was no main effect of CLA supplementation on BW (P = 0.73), 10th rib back fat thickness (P = 0. 36) or LMA (P = 0.69); however, there was a difference in the 10th rib back fat thickness on d 70 and 84 of the trial. Pigs supplemented with 0.66% (P ≤ 0.02) and 1.0% (P ≤ 0.05) CLA had reduced back fat thickness compared to the control group. These data indicate that CLA supplemented at varying rates for 84 d has no effect on BW or LM, but may reduce back fat thickness measured at the 10th rib. Further studies are needed to explore the effects of dietary supplementation of CLA on body composition of growing, weaned pigs.Item Sheep and Goat Preference of Five Common Cover Crops(2020-07-13) Robinson, Jaclyn Leighanne Joyce; Nair, Shyam SWhile the use of cover crops continues to gain widespread acceptance, producers frequently seek other means of deriving economic value from such crops. The alternative use of cover crops as livestock forage is of interest to many producers. In this study, we evaluated sheep and goat intake and apparent preference when provided free access to freshly harvested cereal rye (Secale cereal cv. “Elbon”), annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum), berseem clover (Trifolium alexandrinum cv. “Frosty”), daikon radish (Raphanus sativus subsp. longipinnatus), and Austrian winter pea (Pisum sativum) with advancing plant maturation (from March 5, 2020 to March 27, 2020). While there was significant interaction between sheep and goats in terms of dry matter consumption over time (trial date), in analyzing total dry matter consumption both animal species preferred ryegrass over daikon radish. However, total dry matter consumption of ryegrass was not significantly greater than that of the other three crops. Goats spent significantly more time at ryegrass, rye, and berseem clover treatments (troughs filled with fresh forage) while sheep spent more time on berseem clover and ryegrass. Austrian winter pea and daikon radish were the least preferred forages. Interestingly, animals spent significantly more time on ryegrass at the early feeding trial and significantly more on berseem clover at the last feeding trial, 22 days later. The two legumes used in this study were significantly higher in crude protein and lower in acid detergent fiber values than the non-legume species throughout the study, however, there was no significant correlation between measured forage quality parameters and animal preference. While there may be other factors that limit the use of these species as cover crops, our results indicate that ryegrass, berseem clover, and rye have good potential to serve alternatively as forage for small ruminants while daikon radish and Austrian winter pea would be less suitable for such use.Item The effect of citrus botanical oil on equine behavior(2020-04-09) Thomson, Timber L; Suagee-Bedore, JessicaThe equine industry uses calming supplements to help horses cope with the stressors of interacting with humans and to improve safety through behavioral modification. This study tested the hypothesis that ZenRG® (Equinutrix, Cheritan, VA), a novel blend of citrus botanical oils, magnesium, and yeast would reduce the number of negative behaviors exhibited by young (1.5-6 years of age) horses (n=14) participating in an academic training program. During the 2 mo feeding trial, horses were assigned to either a control (CON, n=7) or treatment (TRT, n=7) group and received groundwork training 4 d per wk. The TRT group received the supplement, top dressed onto their feed, once daily (per manufacturer’s recommendations) the CON group received the same daily ration, no supplement. Horses were housed in individual stalls for the study period with daily turnout to a dry lot or hand walking in the middle of the day (15 – 30 min). Horses underwent an anxiety-test prior to the start of the study. This consisted of taking two horses to an outdoor pen containing a round pen at one end. The test horse was released next to a feed bucket at the far end of the pen, while the companion remained in the round pen with an additional feed bucket. Time spent in proximity to the companion vs. feed was measured for the test horse, and positive and negative behaviors scored. Scores were used to block horses to treatments. This test was repeated at the end of the study. On d 0 and d 58 of supplementation blood samples were obtained between 0600-0630, 100-1030, and 1400-1430 for analysis of plasma cortisol concentrations. On d 19 horses underwent a 10 min isolation-tying test were blood samples were obtained pre, immediately after, and 1 h post. Horses were recorded via camera for analysis of behaviors (content behaviors, licking and chewing, standing quietly vs stress behaviors, pawing, setting back, walking, biting). On d 52 or 55, horses wore heart rate monitors during a 15 min trailering test (TT), and were recorded by camera to count time spent performing stress behaviors (pawing, defecating, vocalizing). On d 56, horses underwent a startle test (ST), during which time to travel 10’ and total distance traveled after being acoustically startled were recorded. Data were analyzed by ANOVA, for the effect of treatment, time, and period (anxiety pre and post, diurnal pre and post). The TT proved to be stressful for horses. There was a main effect of time (P = 0.0283) on cortisol concentrations, whereby, horses had greater concentrations at the conclusion (93.2 [72.7, 119.5] ng/mL) of the 15 min. There was a tendency for TRT to have lower cortisol concentrations across time points compared to CON (P = 0.0711; 61.3 [48.4, 77.6] ng/mL vs 81.1 [67.5, 97.6] ng/mL). For the ST, TRT horses tended to have longer times to travel 10’ than CON horses (1.35 [0.39,4.70] vs. 0.26 [0.07, 0.91 sec, P=0.064) while not traveling different distances (20±4 vs 21±4 ft, P>0.9). Addition of this supplement to equine rations could have positive benefits for human safety during the training process.Item The effect of CLA supplementation on fat deposition and lean muscle mass in horses(2017-03-31) Miller, Elizabeth F.; Beverly, Marcy M.; Leatherwood, Jessica L.; Anderson, Mark J.Fatty acids are utilized within the equine industry to increase the caloric density of a diet as well as replace soluble carbohydrates. Omega-3 fatty acids are the most commonly supplemented fatty acids due to their potential health benefits; however, palatability limitations have spurred an investigation into alternative fatty acids like conjugated linoleic acid (CLA). CLA has shown health benefits similar to that of omega-3s, but the effect of CLA on equine fat deposition and lean muscle mass has yet to be established. The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the effects of supplementing elevated levels of CLA on both lean muscle mass and fat deposition in young growing horses. In phase I of this study, 10 Quarter horses were fed between 5.0% and 10.0% of the concentrate diet, increasing the supplementation level every 3 d to determine the maximum inclusion rate of CLA in horses. In phase II, 9 Quarter horses were separated into 2 treatment groups fed either a control diet of soybean oil or CLA (n = 4 and 5/group, respectively) for 12-wks with BW and sex evenly distributed across treatments. Diets were formulated to be isocaloric and isonitrogenous and each treatment was offered at 0.015% BW/d. Growth measurements were collected weekly; rump fat thickness (RFT), ribeye area (REA), back fat (BF) and intramuscular fat (IMF) were measured on d 7, d 42, and d 84 of the feeding period. The MIXED procedure in SAS was used with repeated measures to detect differences in growth performance and ultrasound measurements. There were no differences in performance characteristics or fat content between treatment groups (P > 0.05). In order to account for initial differences between treatments (P < 0.05); REA between the 17th and 18th ribs (REA17) was run with d 7 as a covariate. Mean REA17 tended to be higher in CLA supplemented horses (P < 0.07) when compared to controls. These results suggest that in an equine model, CLA does not affect growth performance or fat deposition, but may increase lean muscle mass in young growing horses. Further studies examining these effects over longer supplementation periods or in obese or insulin-resistant horses may offer insight to potential benefits of CLA in the horse.Item THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE PARELLI HORSENALITY APPROACH IN DETERMINING SUITABILITY IN THERAPEUTIC RIDING PROGRAMS(2017-04-19) Ramagli, Lori E.; Anderson, Mark; Beverly, Marcy; Leatherwood, JessicaIncreased awareness of mental and physical disabilities have been observed within the US. With this increased awareness, there is a need for therapies to assist these individuals, and help maintain normality in everyday lives in our growing society. Conventional therapies only target only physical or emotional disabilities, but modern day treatments have incorporated animal assisted therapies, like therapeutic riding, to aid in both. When utilizing animals for therapy, there will always be some variety of complications. In particular, burn out rates are one of the number one problems in equine assisted therapy programs today. The objective of this study was to utilize the Parelli Horsenality profiling system as an indicator to determine which horsenality characteristics are most influential when identifying a long-term, safe therapeutic riding horse. To do this, all horses (n=13) were evaluated for both long term and short-term suitability as a therapeutic riding horse based on handler evaluation and behavior during active lessons at Panther Creek Inspiration Ranch (PCI). The long-term tier scoring system was used from 1 to 4, one being the most desirable horse for therapeutic riding and 4 being an undesirable horse for therapeutic riding from PCI instructors that have worked along side the horses for a long period of time. A short-term obedience score was used to evaluate during active lessons via ground study observations. Horses are evaluated through a 100-question exam to determine horsenality traits and their prominence through a stepwise regression using the traits to predict the short and long-term evaluations. From the regression, it was shown that only 5 (bracy, tense, shy, non responsive, easily board) of the 40 Parelli characteristics were important when determining if a horse will be a resilient, safe, and long term therapy horse for a therapeutic riding programs. With these 5 traits, programs will be able use the Parelli Horsenality Profile to simplify the process of finding a suitable, durable, horse for a therapeutic riding program.Item The effects of olive pomace on the fatty acid profile and weight gain in Capra aegagrus hircus as a model for ruminants(2017-04-03) Urso, Philip M.; Beverly, Marcy M.; Kelley, Stanley F.; Anderson, Mark J.In the livestock industry, feed is one of the highest variables affecting the cost of production. Olive pomace is a by-product of the olive oil industry and could be considered as a potential livestock feedstuff to be used as an energy supplement due to its high fat content (15%) and can potentially alter the biochemical composition of blood and muscle tissue. This project was split into two phases; the objective of phase I was to determine if olive pomace could be used as an acceptable low cost feedstuff to maintain weight during the colder winter months. To accomplish this, 28 Spanish influenced goats were fed (2% of body weight, BW) varying amounts of fermented pomace with a protein pellet to meet NEm requirements. The four test groups (n=7) consisted of a 3:1, 1:1, and 1:3 olive pomace to concentrate ratio (O:C) as well as a control containing no pomace. All groups received molasses at 0.5% BW to improve the palatability of the feed and to further homogenize the ration to discourage selective eating of the mixture. Does were fed in herring bone style runs every morning for 49 days. The average daily gain (ADG) for the 1:3, 1:1, 3:1 and control groups were 0.0370, 0.0166, 0.0119, and 0.0262 kg/day, respectively with no difference detected between groups (P>0.88). A difference (P<0.001) in consumption rates was detected between treatments with the 3:1 group consuming more feed with an average of 0.785 kg/day compared to the control at 0.694 kg/day. Additionally, olive pomace may be consider as a cost effective supplement to reduce costs for maintenance rations. Ration costs were calculated at $0.153/kg for the 3:1 ration compared to $0.6386/kg for the pelleted control ration. On average, this difference in input cost can reduce a producer’s cost of feed by $13.53/hd over a 49 day maintenance feeding period (P<0.001) by feeding olive pomace. The objective of phase 2 was to determine if olive pomace could be supplemented at a level that increases the C18:1 concentration in blood. Mature Spanish-influence goats (n=14; 41.6 kg) were fed ad libitum olive pomace, starting at 2% of their BW for 28 days to determine if this by-product would alter circulating fatty acid content. Molasses was mixed with the ration at 0.5% BW to improve the palatability of the feed. Does were fed in herringbone-style runs every afternoon and BW and blood samples were collected every two weeks. There were significant changes in C18:1 and C18:2 over time with mean consumption of 0.55 kg/d over the duration of the trial. From d 0 to d 28, the serum concentration of C18:1 increased (P<0.001) by 8.67% and C18:2 increased (P<0.03) by an average of 4.38%. Serum concentration of C18:0 increased by 3.59% but this was not significant. There was also no significant increase in C16:0. If C18:1 is deposited in the muscle tissue as a result of increased concentration in the blood, then feeding olive pomace can be a healthy alternative to high starch ingredients such as corn and barley.