429/18 | General Article | Veterinary Public Health and Epidemiology
Prevalence of Heat Stress in Equids Working in Brick-kilns in India
D.S. Mohite, C.S. Sheikh, P.C. Compston, R. Jobling and M.M. UpjohnBrooke India, A 223-226, Pacifi c Business Park, Sahibabad Industrial area, Ghaziabad-201010, Uttar Pradesh
Published in the Indian Veterinary Journal August 2019 : 96 (8) - pages 32 to 35(Received: December, 2018, Accepted: April, 2019)
Abstract
The prevalence of heat stress in equids employed in brick-kilns and associated owner beliefs and practices are documented in three districts from two climatic zones in India. Animals were examined 30 minutes after work and categorized as having heat stress or not. Owners were questioned regarding husbandry practices. A low prevalence of heat stress, but many thirsty animals and large gaps in heat stress prevention and management were recorded. Future interventions should address basic management practices. Evidence-based diagnostic and treatment protocols should be revised and implemented.
Key Words: Heat stress, Thermoregulation, Equid, Brick-kiln