Agrarian Bulletin of the Black Sea Littoral

IMMUNOGRAMA INDICATORS IN TOXOPLASMOSIS-SEROPOSITIVE AND SERONEGATIVE CATS WITH ATOPIC DERMATITIS

Mykola CHILIK — 2025-03-31

Scientific studies indicate the absence of a single diagnostic test that could reliably diagnose atopy in cats. The question of infectious agents as factors in the occurrence and exacerbation of atopic dermatitis is debatable in the scientific literature. One of such pathogens is Toxoplasma gondii. The study aimed to determine the differences in immunogram parameters between seropositive and seronegative to toxoplasmosis cats with atopic dermatitis, which will provide an opportunity to adjust therapeutic approaches when conducting treatment protocols. The study involved cats (n=14) with a diagnosis of "atopic dermatitis". Stabilized blood was used for the study. It was collected from the subcutaneous vein of the forearm. After laboratory tests of blood parameters, the cats were divided into two groups, depending on the presence of anti-toxoplasmosis antibody titers in the blood serum. Analysis of the obtained data showed that in the group of seropositive to toxoplasmosis cats with atopic dermatitis, the absolute number of leukocytes was significantly (p<0.05) higher by 2.89 G/l (30%). The assessment of the absolute number of the population of granular leukocytes showed that in the first group the number of monocytes was significantly (p<0.05) twice as high and the number of neutrophils – by 27% (p<0.05). The higher number of neutrophils in the first group of cats was also reflected in the ability of these cells to phagocytosis, which was also higher by 31%. The absolute number of lymphocytes was also 27% higher in the first group (p<0.05). The population of T-lymphocytes had a smaller difference in absolute number between the groups compared to granulocytes. At the same time, the difference in the number between the groups of T-lymphocyte subpopulations was not the same. There was practically no difference between the absolute number of natural killer lymphocytes, which belong to innate cellular immunity. When assessing the degree of lymphocyte sensitization to neuroantigen and adrenaline, a higher sensitization to neuroantigen was found in the group of cats that were seropositive for toxoplasmosis. Therefore, antigenic irritation by Toxoplasma of the body of cats with atopic dermatitis is accompanied by an increase in the population of immunocompetent cells and their activity.

REGIONAL APPLICATION OF ANTIBIOTICS AND IODINE PREPARATIONS IN COMPLEX TREATMENT SCHEMES OF COWS WITH POST-BIRTH ENDOMETRITIS

Oleksandr Bodnar — 2025-03-31

Post-calving endometritis in cows is one of the most common complications of the puerperium, can cause pathological changes not only in the uterus, but also in other parts of the reproductive system and in the body as a whole. The problem of acute purulent complications of the puerperium in cows becomes particularly acute when, against the background of a disorder of the body's defense mechanisms after childbirth, treatment is untimely and inadequate. The article presents the results of a study on the regional use of antibiotics, iodine preparations and amiridine preparations in complex treatment regimens for cows with post-calving endometritis. Comprehensive and sequential treatment regimens for patients with acute endometritis in cows have been scientifically substantiated, developed and tested. A characteristic feature of post-calving endometritis in cows is its wide variety of pathogens, mainly opportunistic microflora, which deprives this acute purulent disease of nosological specificity. Bacteriological studies identified bacterial microflora from uterine-vaginal secretions, determined antibiotic sensitivity of endometritis pathogens, according to which antimicrobial drugs were selected. As etiotropic therapy, based on the results of microbiological tests, combinations of antibiotics oxytetracycline and tylosin in combination with iodine preparations were selected. The basis of rational therapy of cows was regional administration of drugs: into the internal iliac artery, intravenously, paravaginally and intravaginally. It was established that combined intraarterial administration of antibiotics in combination with the uterotonic drug "amiridin" turned out to be a more effective method of treating cows with purulent endometritis than their intramuscular injections recommended by the guidelines. The introduction of antimicrobial drugs into the main vessel of the uterus allows to concentrate their pharmacological action in the pathological focus, which positively affected the results of treatment and restoration of the reproductive function of cows. This can be explained by the synergistic effect of this combination of antibiotics, supplemented with iodine therapy, as well as rational methods of their use.

ASSESSMENT OF THE PROSPECTS AND IMPACT OF BIOSECURITY ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF MINK FARMS IN UKRAINE: SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND REGIONAL ASPECTS

Dmytro Dubina — 2025-03-31

This study examines the impact of biosecurity on the development of mink farms in Ukraine, emphasizing its role in ensuring economic sustainability, public trust, and regulatory compliance.
Using survey data from 150 respondents across various regions, the research assesses public perceptions of mink farming, awareness of biosecurity measures, and factors influencing industry acceptance. The methodology included structured questionnaires, statistical analysis of regional attitudes, and an evaluation of key socio-economic indicators.
The findings indicate that while 50% of respondents support mink farming, concerns about ethical and environmental aspects persist, with 85% emphasizing the need for strict biosecurity measures. The implementation of advanced disinfection protocols, disease monitoring systems, and standardized waste management significantly enhances farm productivity and reduces health risks for animals.
Statistical analysis revealed a strong correlation between education level and awareness of biosecurity benefits, with veterinary professionals demonstrating the highest support for regulatory improvements. Additionally, compliance with international biosecurity standards is identified as a key factor in increasing public trust and industry resilience. The development of information campaigns to improve public awareness of biosecurity and its environmental impact is also crucial. Future research should focus on the economic impact of biosecurity investments, the effectiveness of integrating modern technologies into veterinary control, and the role of digital monitoring systems in optimizing farm management, contributing to the long-term sustainability of the industry.

SPECIES AND QUANTITATIVE COMPOSITION OF MICROFLORA IN THE TREATMENT OF SUPERFICIAL PYODERMA IN DOGS

Borys Кyrychko — 2025-03-31

The article presents data on the species and quantitative composition of microflora, their sensitivity to antibiotics and the dynamics of microbial contamination during the treatment of superficial pyoderma in dogs.
It was found that Escherichia coli, Staph. epidermidis (57,14 %) and Str. pyogenes (17,86 %), as well as the fungi Malassezia pachydermatis and Candida crusei (21,41 and 14,28 %) predominated in the affected skin areas of sick dogs. The isolated cultures of microorganisms were most sensitive to norfloxacin, fumamag and amoxicillin.
For the topical treatment of dogs with pyoderma, Vetmikoderm and Sanoderm were used in a comparative aspect. During the treatment of sick dogs, we observed a dynamic decrease in the number of microorganisms in the lesions in both groups of animals. However, the level of microbial contamination was significantly lower in the areas of infected skin of animals treated with Vetmikoderm.

INNOVATIONS IN SANITATION AND HYGIENE IN CATTLE BREEDING

Аnatoliy Paliy — 2025-03-31

The article presents the results of determining effective regimens and developing methods for the use of three disinfectants, which, in various combinations, include quaternary ammonium compounds, polyhexamethylene guanidine hydrochloride, glutaraldehyde, and other substances. The research was conducted at the production facilities of the National Scientific Center "Institute of Experimental and Clinical Veterinary Medicine" (Kharkiv). The disinfectants were applied according to current guidelines and regulations. The proposed disinfection methods align with modern biosafety and biosecurity requirements in livestock production. They are user-friendly, environmentally safe, highly effective, and cost-efficient. The findings from this research provide valuable resources for planning and implementing sanitary and hygienic measures in livestock production. Future research aims to develop a comprehensive, science-based system of sanitary and hygienic practices specifically tailored for dairy farming.

MONITORING OF RADIATION BACKGROUND LEVELS IN ODESA’S MARKETS

Halyna Skrypka — 2025-03-31

Monitoring of the dose rate of gamma radiation in the air (radiation background) was carried out in the pavilions and on the territory of the markets "Pryvoz", "Pivnichnyі", "Cheryomushky", "Novyi", "Pivdennyi" and "Kyivskyi" in Odessa for the period of 2024 (winter, spring, summer, autumn). The GreenTest device was used to determine the level of background radiation. It was established that the level of gamma radiation dose rate in the air of the pavilions and the open area had some variability, but did not exceed sanitary and hygienic standards. According to the results of the research, it was found that the absorbed dose of gamma radiation in the air in the closed pavilions of the markets of Odessa ranged from 0.03±0.01 to 0.17±0.01 μSv/h. The absorbed dose rate of gamma radiation in the air in the open area of markets is set in the range from 0.08±0.01 to 0.18±0.01 μSv/h. It was found that the highest level of gamma background was recorded in the territory of the pavilions of the "Novyi" and "Pivnichnyі" markets, which is 10% higher than the corresponding research indicators in the "Pivdennyi" and "Kyivskyi" markets, 22.2% higher than the indicators in the "Cheryomushky" market, and 37.5% higher than the indicators in the "Pryvoz" market. The same indicator in the open area was maximum at the «Kyivskyi» market, which is 15.4% higher than the corresponding indicator at the «Novyі» market, 25% higher than at the «Privoz» market, and 50% higher than the indicators at the «Cheryomushky», «Pivdennyi», and «Pivnichnyi» markets. It was found that the radiation background had the highest values in the spring and summer period compared to the winter and autumn months.

SAFETY OF FISH PRODUCTS: EVALUATION OF CHEMICAL, BIOLOGICAL AND TOXICOLOGICAL RISKS

Svitlana Furman — 2025-03-31

The article highlights the current issues of ensuring the safety of fish products under increasing requirements for food quality and growing consumer demand for healthy nutrition. Fish products are a valuable source of animal protein, polyunsaturated fatty acids, essential trace elements, and vitamins; however, they may pose a potential threat to human health in the case of microbiological contamination (presence of pathogenic microorganisms, toxins) or chemical contamination (accumulation of heavy metals, pesticide residues, dioxins, and other toxic substances).
The aim of the study was to assess the safety level of fish products through a comprehensive analysis of organoleptic, physicochemical, microbiological, toxicological, and radiological indicators, which allows for a thorough characterization of potential health risks to consumers.
The study examined the content of toxic elements (lead, cadmium, arsenic, mercury) in different types of fish—salmon, notothenia, saury, and herring. Variations in element concentrations depending on fish species were identified: the highest lead content was detected in salmon, and the highest arsenic content—in herring. Microbiological indicators included the analysis of total viable counts, coliform bacteria, and pathogenic microorganisms such as Salmonella spp. The results confirmed the overall compliance of the samples with current regulatory standards, confirming their sanitary safety.
The residual amounts of pesticides (HCH, DDT, and its metabolites), levels of radionuclides ( 137 Cs, 90 Sr), as well as ichthyopathological indicators were also analyzed.
The study emphasizes the importance of harmonizing national standards with European Union requirements regarding microbiological and toxicological safety criteria. Particular attention is drawn to the need for enhanced monitoring of heavy metal content depending on the geographical origin of the products.
An essential component of the safety management system is the implementation of HACCP principles at all stages of production and the dissemination of information to consumers regarding potential risks associated with fish consumption. The research results can be used in state control, and the development of food safety strategies.

DIET CALCULATOR FOR DOGS AND CATS: AN INNOVATIVE TOOL TO OPTIMIZE NUTRITION AND ENSURE ANIMAL WELFARE

Valerii Borshchenko — 2025-03-31

A balanced diet is a prerequisite for the physical, emotional and psychological well-being of dogs and cats. An innovative tool, the Dog and Cat Diet Calculator application, created on the basis of Microsoft Excel by a team of researchers and teachers at Polissia National University, is of great help in achieving optimal nutrition for animals. This calculator is an important tool for optimizing animal nutrition, as it allows for detailed diet planning based on the individual needs of each animal. The program consists of five tabs: “Feeds”, ‘Dog Norms’, ‘Cat Norms’, ‘Dog Diet’, and ‘Cat Diet’. Each of these tabs plays an important role in calculating and adjusting the diet. The main Feed tab contains a database of nutritional values of feeds and supplements that can be adjusted by the user based on their experience or laboratory results. This allows you to adapt the diet to the specific needs of the animal, which significantly improves nutritional efficiency. A special feature of the calculator is the use of the simplex method for ration optimization, which allows you to set limits and adjust the composition of the ration to achieve an optimal balance of nutrients. The user can adjust the diet in real time, which allows you to quickly and efficiently tailor the diet to the specific needs of your dog or cat. This calculator is useful not only for veterinarians, dog handlers, nutritionists, but also for students. The importance of such a tool lies in the fact that it promotes a deeper understanding of the nutrient requirements of animals and helps to achieve high standards in feeding. Thanks to the use of the calculator, it is possible to maintain the health and welfare of dogs and cats, as well as to ensure a comfortable and long life.

REPRODUCTIVE CAPACITY OF DANISH SELECTION SOWS IN UKRAINIAN CONDITIONS

Ivan Bugai — 2025-03-31

The assessment and the analysis of the reproductive ability of Danish selection sows under different combinations in local geoclimatic and epizootic conditions of Ukraine was carried out. At the facilities of the “Genetic Invest” LLC farm, four groups of sows of the Large White and Landrace breeds of Danish selection, each with 15 heads, were formed using the analogue group method in accordance with the scheme. The first and third groups included purebred sows of the Large White breed of Danish selection (Y), and the second and fourth groups included their purebred analogues of the Landrace breed (L). Sows of groups I and IV were inseminated with sperm of boars of the Large White breed (Y) of the same selection. Their analogues from groups II and III were inseminated with sperm of boars of the Landrace breed (L) also of Danish selection. The following productivity indexes were taken into account in sows: duration of gestation, days; total number of piglets born; multiparity (number of live piglets at birth); mass of piglets' litter and their individual mass at birth; number; individual mass and mass of piglets' litter at weaning at 28 days; survival of piglets to weaning. Also, when piglets were born in litters, the total number of stillborn, mummies, and weak piglets born was taken into account per litter.
As a result of studying the reproductive ability of Danish breeding sows in different combinations in local geoclimatic and epizootic conditions of Ukraine, it was determined that there is a high level of animal productivity according to the main characteristics.
In bi-breed reciprocal combinations and purebred breeding of the Large White and Landrace breeds of Danish selection, it was found that the duration of gestation in sows is 117.48-118.87 days, which is on 3.47-4.87 days longer than traditionally accepted, which should be taken into account in further work with these breeds at the level of different farms.
It was found the fact that the combination of sows of the Large White breed with Landrace boars had the highest values of such indexes as the total number of piglets born (p<0.05), multiparity (p<0.01), and the number of piglets at weaning (p<0.01), which indicates the effectiveness of using this combination in Ukrainian conditions to ensure the maximum level of productivity in terms of the reproductive ability of Danish selection sows in bi-breed combinations.

FEED MIXTURE RECIPES FOR CATTLE OF VARIOUS PRODUCTION GROUPS

Ihor Riznychuk — 2025-03-31

It is noted that when organizing the feeding of cattle, at least 60 % of the dry matter in the daily ration should be coarse-fiber feed, corn or grass silage. For cows during milk production, this figure can be reduced to 50 % for a period of no more than the first three months.
Recipes for compound feed concentrates have been developed for calves from 1 to 3 and from 3 to 6 months, for young cattle aged from 6 to 18 months, and for dairy cows.
The basis of feed mixtures for ruminants is crushed wheat, corn, barley, sunflower cake, soybean cake, sodium chloride (table salt), sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), vegetable oil, protein and vitamin supplements or concentrates.
The features of the use of concentrated feeds in feed mixtures for calves, young animals during growing and fattening, dairy cows during the production cycle are given: during the period of new pregnancy, the first lactation period, the second lactation period, the third lactation period, in the dry period, which is divided into two phases: 40-11 days, 10-1 days.
It is indicated that the maximum amount of feeding of concentrated feed in the feeding rations of calves up to 6 months of age should not exceed 2 kg, in the feeding rations of replacement heifers - 1-2 kg, young animals for fattening - 4 kg, dry cows 1-2 kg, dairy cows in the first lactation period - 10 kg. Concentrated feeds are fed to ruminants after eating the main bulky feeds (silage, hay, concentrates).
It is concluded that the use of compound feeds, which include energy and protein feeds, protein-vitamin concentrates and vegetable oils, is the basis of high productivity of cattle of various production groups.

PREPARATION OF GRAIN FRACTION FOR FEED PRODUCTION PROCESSES

Igor Dudarev — 2025-03-31

The preparation of grain components for the further production of compound feed is an urgent task for the production facilities that provide feed to the livestock sector of the agricultural sector. Grain feed components are an important source of energy, containing almost all the substances necessary for the normal functioning of the human, animal and poultry body.
Anatomy and components of cereals have a hull film, which in many technological processes must be removed from the surface without destroying the kernel of the grain. The expediency and necessity of removing flower, fruit and seed hulls from cereals for the production of feed, cereals and other products is determined by the requirements for obtaining a product that meets modern product quality standards.
The theoretical and methodological basis of the research is the dialectical method of cognition of physical phenomena, a systematic approach, the basic principles of technological operations, scientific developments of domestic and foreign scientists on the preparation of raw materials for the manufacture of high-quality end products.
The following tools were used to implement the tasks: monographic method - when processing sources of scientific specialised literature, DSTU and other regulatory documents regarding the implementation of technological operations for the preparation of grain raw materials in the conditions of processing industries of the agro-industrial complex, namely the process of cleaning the grain kernel from surface hulls; abstract and logical method - when analysing scientific opinions and substantiating the concepts of improving the technological process of grain processing; systematic approach - when studying the basic technological prerequisites for the implementation of grain processing processes.
Determination of the maximum force load of grain, which ensures effective separation of hulls during hulling with minimal destruction of the endosperm and grinding, as well as taking into account the strength of grain and its structural components. The necessary approach for determining the transporting capacity of the working rotor when using a friction machine is obtained, and the geometric and kinematic parameters of the rotor-blade machine are given to ensure its efficient operation.

INFLUENCE OF LYSINE CONCENTRATION AND RATIO OF METHIONINE AND THREONINE IN THE DIET FEED COMPOSITION ON THE PRODUCTIVE QUAILS AT THE AGE OF 1-4 WEEKS

Igor Riznychuk — 2025-03-31

A study was conducted to determine the influence of lysine concentration and the ratio of methionine and threonine in the composition of the diet on the productive qualities of quails at the age of 1-4 weeks.
In accordance with the experimental scheme, 300 young quails were selected at a daily age, from which 4 groups of 75 animals were formed.
The control group of quails consumed the basic diet (RD) - complete loose mixed feed (lysine - 1.6 %, methionine - 0.75 %, 1.0 %).
In the basic diet of young quails of 2 - experimental group, the methionine norm was increased by 0.5 %, 3 - experimental group, the threonine norm was increased by 0.5 %, 4 - experimental group, the methionine and threonine norm were increased by 0.5 %, respectively.
The basis of the compound feed for the experimental groups of quails was such components as soybean meal 35 %, wheat – 33, corn – 25, sunflower oil – 2.0, other feed materials and additives – 5 %.
Ensuring the poultry's need for trace elements, vitamins, and other biologically active substances was carried out by introducing 0.5 % of the premix for broiler poultry. The composition of the compound feed for quails of all groups differed only in the concentration of methionine and threonine in it.
It was established that the best productivity indicators are characterized by the livestock of the experimental group, in which the threonine norm in the composition of the diet was increased by 0.5 g per 1 kg of compound feed.

PROMISING METHODS OF MANURE UTILIZATION AND USE OF VERMOPRODUCTS IN PIG FARMING

Mykhailo Fomichenko — 2025-03-31

A study was conducted to determine the methods of manure utilization and the use of vermicompost in pig farming. The study was conducted in the conditions of LLC "LIGA COJIAP", Zaporizhzhia region and LLC "Agroprime Holding" Odessa region. The characteristics of various operations and processes (preparation, structure and mass of the population, monitoring of population development, extraction of worms, collection of vermicompost and its repackaging) are given. (substrate preparation, vermiculture settlement, worm adaptation, nutrient substrate consumption rate, settlement density, population structure and mass, population development monitoring, worm extraction, vermicompost collection and its repackaging), which characterized a particular vermiculture technology. It was found that the production of vermihumus and vermiculture (California worms), depends on the vermiculture technology. It has been established that for manure utilization it is advisable to use modern vermicomposting technologies, namely in continuous vermireactors. In particular, when using vermicomposting technology in continuous reactors compared to "stationary banks", the production of vermihumus per 1 m2 increases by 2.70 times, and vermiculture by 2.68 times, the cost of vermicompost is reduced by 2.24 times, and vermiculture by 2.6 times, and the level of profitability increases by 2.22 and 2.6 times, respectively. It has been established that the technology of vermicomposting in continuous reactors makes it possible to increase production volumes, reduce physical labor costs and reduce the cost of vermiproduction.
It has been proven that the introduction of 5 and 10% of dry vermihumus contributes to an increase in the average daily gain in live weight by 7.92 and 15.29%, respectively, and in live weight by 4.02 and 8.76%.

PROCESSING AND DISINFECTION OF BARLEY FEED GRAIN

Igor Dudarev — 2025-03-31

Seeds are biological entities known to release water through respiration. Within a silo, this moisture is distributed upward due to convective air currents. This phenomenon occurs as a result of the temperature differential between the warmer seeds at the silo's center and the cooler walls. If grain is stored at a humidity level below 12% and protected from insect infestation, increases in humidity in the upper layers of the seeds will likely remain minimal.
Conversely, should the grain be stored with humidity exceeding 12%, sufficient moisture can develop on the upper layer, fostering mold growth. Such conditions lead to microbial proliferation, rendering the grain unsuitable for livestock, poultry feed, and other by-products. Consequently, the eradication of harmful microflora during grain processing and storage represents a critical concern for farmers. Deficiencies in the final product may arise from the utilization of low-quality grain, deviations from production protocols, and non-adherence to established storage conditions and requirements.
The primary defects comprise impairments in organic and physicochemical properties, as well as microdefects. To avert contamination of food products, grains, and seeds, it is imperative that food grains undergo sterilization and disinfection above the prescribed standards prior to storage and transportation. The predominant methods of sterilization and disinfection include chemical coatings, thermal treatments, and cold treatments, or a combination of these biological approaches.
A key factor contributing to spoilage is the moisture content of the grains; thus, heating, utilizing the dry heat mechanism, has gained acceptance among major storage and transportation entities. To inhibit microbial activity, ultraviolet radiation (UV radiation) serves as an effective treatment method, utilized to disrupt microbial activity and eliminate grain pests through the interaction with electromagnetic radiation in the spectrum between visible light and X-rays.

POLYMORPHISM OF THE ESR1 AND PRLR GENES IN MYRHOROD, POLTAVA MEAT AND WELSH PIG BREEDS

Valeriia Matiiuk — 2025-03-31

The use of molecular genetic markers in pig breeding opens new opportunities for improving the productive and reproductive traits of animals. Traditional selection methods based on phenotype evaluation have certain limitations, whereas marker-assisted selection allows for more effective selection of desirable alleles. At present, the study of the genetic structure of Ukrainian pig breed populations, such as the Myrhorod and Poltava meat breeds, is relevant for their conservation and improvement.
The aim of this study was to analyze the distribution of allele variants and genotypes of polymorphisms in the estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) and prolactin receptor (PRLR) genes in Myrhorod, Poltava meat, and Welsh pigs raised in Ukraine. Genotyping of animals from the three breeds was performed using the polymerase chain reaction method followed by restriction fragment analysis of amplified products. The allele and genotype frequencies for the studied loci were determined, and the levels of heterozygosity and polymorphism were assessed.
The study results revealed differences in allele frequencies among the examined populations. In the Myrhorod breed, the A allele predominated in the ESR1 (0,65) and PRLR (0,74) genes. In the Poltava meat breed, allele frequencies were more balanced (A – 0,58 and 0,51, respectively). In the Welsh breed, a slight predominance of the B allele was observed in the studied loci (B – 0,52 and 0,58, respectively). The genotype frequency analysis showed that the Welsh breed was characterized by high heterozygosity for the studied loci in ESR1 and PRLR (0,571 and 0,762, respectively), while the Poltava meat breed demonstrated high heterozygosity for ESR1 (0,633). In contrast, the Myrhorod breed exhibited a lower level of heterozygosity. This study has potential for further research in association analysis with pig productivity traits. The practical significance of the study lies in the possibility of using the obtained data in breeding programs to preserve and improve Ukrainian pig breeds.

MANIFESTATION OF THE HETEROSIS EFFECT IN SOWS UNDER THE DIFFERENT BREED COMBINATIONS

Valentyn Rybalko — 2025-03-31

The aim of the research was to assess the manifestation of the heterosis effect in sows under the different breed combinations. The research was conducted on the basis of the pig farm of the private enterprise "Skrypnyk V.O." in Lozova district of Kharkiv region. Two control groups (the Poltava Meat and Welsh sows) were formed for insemination with boars of the same breeds in purebred breeding (groups I and II, respectively). Two subsequent groups were formed for reciprocal crossing of Welsh and the Poltava Meat breeds (groups III and IV, respectively). Two experimental groups were also formed by direct combinations of Welsh and the Poltava Meat with boars of the Large White breed (groups V and VI, respectively). The main indexes of reproductive ability of sows were taken into account, on the basis of which the level of manifestation of the heterosis effect was calculated. The highest values of the manifestation of the heterosis effect (general type) in terms of the number of piglets at birth were observed for the combination of the Poltava Meat sows with boars of the Large White and Welsh breeds. In terms of the number of live piglets, the highest values of the manifestation of the general heterosis effect were obtained for the combinations of the Poltava Meat sows with boars of the Large White (11.04%) and the Poltava Meat sows with boars of the Welsh breed (9.82%). In terms of the specific and hypothetical types of manifestation of the heterosis effect, in all cases there was an advantage for the direct combination. Regarding the level of manifestation of the total manifestation of the heterosis effect according to different indexes of reproductive ability of sows for the combination of Welsh and the Poltava Meat breeds, higher values were obtained for the number of piglets at birth (both total and live) and the weight of the litter at weaning. When assessing the reciprocal effect, positive values were obtained for all evaluated indexes, which indicates the presence of a parental effect in reciprocal combinations of Welsh and the Poltava Meat pigs. The assessment of the degree of phenotypic dominance indicates the obtained different types of dominance for different indexes and combinations, which confirms the complex mechanisms of formation of the heterosis effect.

THE IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE IN SOUTHERN UKRAINE ON THE FEEDING STANDARDS FOR DOGS KEPT OUTDOORS IN WINTER

Ihor Nikolenko — 2025-03-31

The rational feeding of dogs kept outdoors during the winter period has not been sufficiently studied, given that there are many different climatic regions in the world with their own specific environmental conditions and climate variations, which have been increasingly subject to change in the recent years. This fact alone accounts for the relevance of research in this area, which requires additional attention. According to the latest recommendations on the feeding standards for dogs kept outdoors during the winter period, it is suggested that their diet should be increased by 15% in terms of its energy content.
The carried out investigation has disclosed the outcomes of various dog feeding practices, taking into account the climate of southern Ukraine and its recent changes. The data obtained provide grounds for revising the recommendations given in the scientific literature, since those do not specify the region of our country and its climatic features.
The findings of the study indicate that dogs of the first control group and the second experimental group had significant changes in their live weight and were 4.1 % higher when their daily diet was increased by 15 % and 20 %, respectively in its energy content. The height of the third experimental group grew by 6.9 %, which is not a desirable factor for the animals after finishing their physiological development. In contrast, the first experimental group, which consumed a diet with a 10% rise in its energy content in winter, had no changes in their live weight.
These results indicate that irrational feeding of dogs without taking into account the climatic conditions of the environment causes a possible increase in their live weight and can provoke animals' obesity, later on deteriorating their general health.