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Modulatory Role of Ascorbic Acid on Behavioural Responses of Pigs Transported By Road during the Harmattan Season
Adenkola, A. Y.; Ayo, J. O.; Sackey, A.K.B. & Adelaiye, A. B.
Abstract
Experiments were performed on adult local pigs with the aim of investigating the modulatory role of ascorbic acid (AA) on their behavioural responses to 4-h, road transportation during the harmattan season. Sixteen adult pigs administered with AA at the dose of 250 mg/kg dissolve in sterile water served as experimental animals, and 13 others administered with sterile water were used as control animals. All the pigs were transported for 4-h at speed of 40-50 km/h covering a distance of 140 km. The behavioural activities were determined before and after road transportation. The behavioural activities were higher (P<0.05) in the experimental than control pigs immediately after transportation. In conclusion, AA ameliorates behavioural stress induced by road transportation of pigs for 4 h and may be of value in reducing adverse effects of road transportation in pigs.
Keywords
Ascorbic acid, Behavioural responses, Harmattan season, Pigs, Road transportation.
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