The two lameness methods reliably induced lameness of varying severity in healthy meat goats.

Mean CORT levels 4 and 6 h after lameness induction were higher in lame goats ( P = 0.005, P = 0.01).

Pressure mat analysis demonstrated, when compared to controls, lame goats had decreased force ( P = 0.013), impulse ( P = 0.007), contact pressure ( P = 0.007), and contact area of the left hind limb ( P = 0.009). Maximum temperatures measured in hooves from lame vs control goats were significantly higher ( P = 0.003). Lame goats had higher VLS compared to controls ( P = 0.003).

Response to lameness was characterized by behavior scoring, visual lameness scoring (VLS), infrared thermography (IRT) of the affected digit, pressure mat gait analysis (PMT), and plasma cortisol (CORT) analysis. Lameness was induced by intraarticular injection into the left hind lateral claw distal interphalangeal joint with either amphotericin B (Amp-B) or kaolin-carrageenan (K-C). The objectives of this pilot study was to evaluate two different lameness models and measures for determining response to induced lameness in meat goats. Understanding individual animal response to pain and characterization of lameness are critical when developing appropriate treatments. Lameness is a serious health concern for livestock species.

Fluke smartview 3.14 download