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West African donkey's liveweight estimation using body measurements
Pierre Claver Nininahazwe1, Adama Sow1, Rakiswende Constant Roamba2
1Inter-States School of Veterinary Science and Medicine, Laboratory of Endocrinology and Radio-Immunology, BP. 5077, Dakar Fann, Senegal.
Veterinary World
|November 30, 2017
Summary
Researchers developed a formula to estimate West African donkey liveweight using heart girth. This simple regression method provides a practical tool for farmers and veterinarians to assess donkey weight accurately.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Science
- Agricultural Engineering
Background:
- Accurate liveweight estimation is crucial for animal health management.
- West African donkeys are vital working animals in their region.
- Existing methods for estimating donkey weight may be impractical in field settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a reliable formula for estimating the liveweight of West African donkeys.
- To identify key body measurements that correlate with liveweight in this population.
- To provide a practical tool for weight estimation in veterinary and agricultural contexts.
Main Methods:
- Collected liveweight and six body measurements from 1352 donkeys across Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, and Senegal.
- Analyzed correlations between liveweight and body measurements.
- Established regression lines using the most correlated measurements.
Main Results:
- The average liveweight of West African donkeys was 126.0±17.1 kg.
- Heart girth (HG) showed the strongest correlation with liveweight (R²=0.81).
- A simple linear regression formula was derived: Estimated LW (kg) = 2.55 × HG (cm) - 153.49.
Conclusions:
- The derived formula using heart girth provides an accurate method for estimating West African donkey liveweight.
- This formula can be used to create weighing tapes for practical field application.
- Accurate weight estimation will aid in medication dosage and load adjustment for these animals.
