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The present study examined the occurrence of the 3 major genotypes of porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2a, PCV2b, PCV2d) in tissue samples from fetuses origination from litters suspicious for stillbirth, mummification, embryonic death, and infertility syndrome (SMEDI) affected litters from Germany.A total of 53 litters suspicious for SMEDI of 27 farms with a total of 469 fetuses sent in for diagnostic purposes between 2021-2023 from veterinarians in the field were available for the present examination. Veterinarians were asked to submit all dead piglets of SMEDI-litters to allow random sampling. Four fetuses per litter were randomly selected for the study. In total, 209 fetuses were examined by qPCR for PCV2 DNA and in case of a positive result, further genotyped by PCV2 genotype-specific qPCR or sequencing of the open reading frame 2. Farm specific data was collected on a voluntary base and included in the analyses.In total 40.7% (11/27) of farms, 37.7% of litters (20/53) and 21.1% (44/209) of fetuses were positive for PCV2 DNA. Genotyping by qPCR was successful in 37 PCV2 positive tissue samples. For 4 additional samples, sequencing of PCV2 DNA was performed to support the genotype assignment. After all, 29.6% (8/27) of farms, 30.2% (16/53) of litters and 19.1% (40/209) of fetuses were positive for PCV2d. One farm (3.7%) had a PCV2a+PCV2d positive fetus (0.5%) in one litter (1.9%).PCV2d could be identified as the main PCV2 genotype in SMEDI-associated fetuses. This finding is in line with the overall observed genotype shift toward PCV2d as the predominating PCV2 genotype in the domestic pig population not only in Germany but also in most all relevant pig producing countries worldwide. Moreover, these findings also indicate that diaplacental transmission may play a major role in the spread of PCV2 to downstream pig populations and thus, also for the observed genotype shift. The high Cq-values in tissue samples indicated that PCV2 was not the etiological pathogen in most cases.The occurrence of SMEDI in a piglet producing herd needs diagnostic attention and may also include PCV2 diagnostics including genotyping in PCV2 associated cases. This approach could enable adjustment of the vaccination protocol on farm level and early detection of newly introduced PCV2 genotype in a pig herd.

The Dutch Land Goat (Nederlandse Landgeit) is one of Europe's oldest goat breeds, originally developed as a resilient smallholder's livestock in the Netherlands. Today, it plays an increasingly important role in conservation grazing projects, particularly on small-scale and structurally complex sites where traditional grazing animals such as sheep are of limited use. The breed is characterized by high robustness, adaptability, and a distinct browsing behavior with a preference for shrubs and woody vegetation. This makes it especially effective in controlling invasive or competitive plant species such as blackberry (Rubus sect. Rubus), holly (Ilex), and late-flowering black cherry (Prunus serotina).By browsing and bark-stripping, Dutch Land Goats contribute not only to maintaining open cultural landscapes but also to a long-term reduction of undesirable vegetation. Their relatively low tendency to jump, protective long coat, and strong keeper orientation facilitate practical management. Nevertheless, small-scale projects and specific conservation goals require close monitoring of health and nutrition. Key aspects include adequate mineral supplementation (e. g., selenium), claw health on moist soils, and prudent parasite management to minimize adverse effects on dung fauna.Experiences at Tierpark Nordhorn demonstrate that male groups are particularly suitable for seasonal use, as they remain more manageable than females with offspring. Mobile handling and restraining systems adapted to the goats' physical abilities are essential, while regular interactions at feeding and watering points enhance trust and facilitate veterinary care.Dutch Land Goats thus represent a valuable component of conservation grazing systems. Their specialized browsing behavior enables effective management of shrub-encroached habitats on small areas. Moreover, as a rare heritage livestock breed, they provide an important contribution to the preservation of genetic diversity.

Sonographically measured back muscle (RMD) and back fat thickness (RFD) is used in some animal species to assess body condition as part of breeding value estimation and individual animal evaluation. Reference values are not available for domestic animal breeds that exist only in small populations, limiting the applicability of this parameter. The aims of this study are to present the method of measuring back fat and back muscle thickness in the peacock goat, analyze factors influencing these measurements and to publish initial values for this breed.The RFD and RMD as well as the body condition score (BCS) of peacock goats were determined ultrasonographically on 2 farms over a period of 3 years. Additional, data on pregnancy and lactation status as well as gastrointestinal strongyles were recorded.458 examinations were performed on 84 goats (4.1±3.1 years). The RFD is significantly (p<0.05) higher in male animals than in female animals. A similar trend was also observed for RMD (p<0.05). Animals under 2 years of age have significantly lower RMD and RFD compared older animals (p<0.05). The higher the BCS of the animals, the higher the RFD (p<0.05) and RMD (p<0.05), with the exception of BCS 1.0. Farm (Management) (p<0.05), lactation status (p<0.05) and duration (p<0.05) as well as the time interval since the last lambing (p<0.05) also exerted a significant influence on RFD. Gestation (p<0.05) had a significant influence on RMD. Neither the presence of a clinically relevant strongyle infestation nor the intensity of infestation had any impact on RFD or RMD. However, BCS was significantly lower (p<0.05) in animals with a treatment-worthy infestation (2.4±0.1) compared to those without (2.5±0.1). As orientation values for the peacock goat (from 2 years of age), an RMD of 20.5±3.8 mm and an RFD of 3.3±0.8 mm can be given for females. For males, the RMD is 24.4±4.8 mm and the RFD is 3.8±0.7 mm.It was possible to determine guideline values for RFD and RMD in the peacock goat and to analyze factors influencing these, so that these parameters may be used for this goat breed.The measurement of RFD and RMD provides a quick and objective method for evaluating body condition, which can be used for breeding value estimation and individual animal assessment.

Ark Warder Zoological Park is the world's largest center for rare and endangered domestic animal breeds. The park houses 87 breeds and 7 ancestral forms (wild animal species) across a 40 ha landscape park and 19 satellite stations (150 ha), providing a comprehensive impression of the once-extensive-agro-biodiversity. The park's scenic landscape as well as the newly established Domesticaneum science center form the foundation for intensive, close human-animal-contact, environmental education, immersive nature experiences, and the conveyance of domestic animals' significance in human cultural history. Furthermore, Ark Warder is based as a scientific institution. This holistic approach based on the following 6 core principles can be regarded as a unique concept: (1) Conservation breeding, (2) Establishment of satellite stations, (3) Education, (4) Networking, (5) Research, (6) Preservation of native biodiversity. This concept will be presented in this publication.

The aim of this study was to compare the fattening performance and pork quality of 10 pigs from the endangered breed Bentheim Black Pied (BBS) with 30 F₁ pigs from the widely used Danish hybrid pig (Large White x Danish Landrace) crossed with BBS (BHP), all fattened up under free-range conditions.A total of 40 pigs were fattened up under a restrictive feeding regime on a 1.28ha pasture and weighed monthly. Subsequently, the pigs were slaughtered, carcass traits were assessed, and samples from M. longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LTL) and back-fat were collected for laboratory analysis.Fattening performance differed significantly between the groups: BHP pigs were significantly heavier at the end of the fattening period (128.3 kg BHP vs. 102.5 kg BBS), with significantly higher average daily weight gain. Significant differences were observed in carcass characteristics (carcass length, cutlet weight, carcass yield). However, BBS pigs showed a more favourable fatty acid profile, notably with higher levels of the essential α-linolenic acid. Water-holding capacity was lower in BHP pigs, with significantly higher drip losses during cold storage at 2°C, while grill- and thawing-losses did not differ significantly. Sensory analysis revealed that untrained panellists were able to distinguish between meat of both groups. BBS meat was rated as more tender, which was also confirmed by significantly lower shear force measurements.The study showed that crossbreeding BBS and Danish hybrid pigs can compensate for performance deficits of the traditional breed -such as slower growth- while partially retaining beneficial traits, such as a nutritionally superior fatty acid composition. Overall, the results are in line with the expectations for F₁ crossbred pigs, when 2 breeds with different performance parameters are used. These findings are relevant for veterinary practitioners involved in sustainable pig production, the conservation of rare breeds, and the development of alternative outdoor husbandry systems.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR), particularly antibiotic resistance, is an increasingly significant threat to human and veterinary health. Monitoring systems are essential for establishing targeted measures to reduce AMR and for measuring the success of these measures. The European obligation to record antibiotic consumption is entering the next stage. In order to implement Article 57 of Regulation (EU) 2019/6, data on the volume of antibiotic use in sheep, goats, horses (including non-slaughter animals), geese, ducks, rabbits intended for food production and fish (Atlantic salmon, rainbow trout, gilthead seabream, sea bass and carp) must be collected nationally by 1 January 2026. This data must then be reported by veterinarians to the HI-Tier veterinary medicine database (TAM-DB) by 14 January 2027.

Domestic Baroque donkeys are popular animals in many European parks and zoos. Although their cream coat color is very charismatic, the underlying genetics is still undiscovered. Addressing this question, a candidate approach was used to search for the causative mutation.Considering the knowledge from domestic horses, the Solute Carrier Family 45 Member 2 (SLC45A2) was identified as the most promising candidate. Samples from 77 domesticated donkeys, 11 wild equids, 1 mule and 2 domestic horses were included in comparison. All exons and the flanking intron sequences of the SLC45A2 were sequenced (2774bp).Sequence comparison revealed that a mutation found exclusively in exon 7 transmembrane region 11 (c.1457C>T; p.Ala486Val) is very likely responsible for the charismatic coat color phenotype in Baroque donkeys. Family studies produced evidence for an autosomal recessive mode of inheritance. Since the coat color in Baroque donkeys varies from almost white to gold, the question remains whether the base coloration, which in mammals is regulated by the ASIP and MC1R genes, also have an impact but no remarkable mutations were found in Baroque donkeys.

Extensive husbandry of domestic animals has advantages for land and biodiversity. In order to also benefit the animals, animal owners must cope with special legal and practical challenges. This article provides an overview of some of the particular aspects of management and veterinary medicine that need to be taken into account. It also attempts to explain why an on-site veterinarian is reasonable for this type of husbandry if one wants to avoid violating the German Animal Welfare Act. This holds true regardless of whether animals are kept for commercial purposes or purely for landscape maintenance. In the latter case in particular, responsibilities may be distributed in such a way that an on-site veterinarian could compensate for gaps in factual accountability that threaten the health of the animals.

This practical report refers to the farm's own data (weight development, sow behavior and lactation) from 2 farrowing passages (DG) in a free-range forest enclosure (DG 1 Feb. 2025: 5 sows; DG 2 May 2025: 3 sows). An additional trial passage (5 sows) in the summer of 2024 was included for the production data. The sows, which were artificially inseminated with Pietrain semen (crossbred sows: Schwäbisch-Hällisch*Pietrain), had 5 farrowing pens with heated piglet nests available for birth in a barn; a feeding area in the barn, the planned space with drinking troughs and a piglet free-range forest enclosure with 620 m² were accessible to sows and piglets at the latest from the 11^th day of life (LT) of the first litter of each DG. A few weeks later, the pasture (3,000 m²) and main free-range forest enclosure (16,000 m²) were also opened. Feeding took place with organic concentrate feed components with 11.22 MJ ME/kg, 12.8% crude protein content and large quantities of acre-grass (supplied or grazing). The piglets were not weaned and remained with the sows until natural weaning.On average (trial passage, DG 1 and DG 2), 82.3% of liveborn piglets reached a weight of approx. 25 kg. Losses by crushing were 12.3% (mainly on the first day after birth) and other losses were 5.4%. The average daily weight gain of piglets in DG 1 and DG 2 was between LT 29 (8.01 kg live weight) and LT 78 (29.18 kg live weight) at 432 grams; at the end of week 10, an average group weight of 25 kg was reached. The sows behaved mostly relaxed and neutral towards the farm staff, with a few animals being nervous occasionally. No sow showed aggressive behavior. Recognizable weaning took place from the 13^th/14^th week of life (LW), with the largest part of weaning completed by the 16^th/17^th LW.For the presented practical farm keeping sows with piglets in a free-range forest enclosure is an effective way of production. The husbandry system shows adequate daily weight gains, and the sows' distinct feed conversion capability during the natural lactation period means that they can be fed 100% organic feed without any problems. With regard to losses by crushing on the first day of life, management must be further optimized in terms of selection of sows and factors such as bedding.