A Review on Effect of Transportation and Handling on Meat Quality and Animal Welfare of Sheep in Ethiopia

Abstract

Stressful routines for animal handling can reduce immune function and productivity of animals.  In May developing country including Ethiopia sheep is transported by the land /rood  and also sheep is subjected to walked during hot time of the day, they transport whole the day. Poor transportation can have serious deleterious effects on the welfare of sheep and can lead to significant loss of quality and production.  In Ethiopia, there are no legislations to protect animals from suffering or discomfort. Therefore the objective of this review paper was to investigate Effect of transportation and handling on meat quality and animal welfare of sheep in Ethiopia The Consequences of poor sheep transport are Physical injury will cause loss of meat quality and subsequent rejection, the main forms of injury are bruising - bruising is the most serious and significant production loss as bruised, off-color meat must be wasted , Trampling - this occurs when animals fall down due to slippery floors or overcrowding. Sheep may also suffocate as a result and even die if not helped. Suggested improvements for the future are education of stakeholders, establishment of animal welfare regulations, and use of appropriate vehicles when transporting sheep and lastly to make sure that sheep’s will get feed, water and rest during transportation.

Keywords: Ethiopia, animal welfare, sheep transport, animal handling, sheep, meat quality.