Sheep farming is a vital component of Indonesia’s agricultural economy, where the demand for meat continues to rise. Indigenous Garut sheep are well-adapted to local environments and are known for their high reproduc­tive efficiency, but they have low growth rates. Conversely, Dorper sheep are renowned for their rapid growth and carcass quality, but they exhibit longer lambing intervals under tropical conditions. Crossbreeding offers a strategy to combine the strengths of both breeds. This study aimed to evaluate maternal reproductive performance and pre-weaning growth traits in purebred Dorper, Garut, and Dorper × Garut crossbred sheep under a commercial breeding system in Indonesia. A retrospective observational study was conducted on 1,744 ewes (1,498 Garut, 209 F1 Dorper × Garut, and 93 Dorper) and 3,248 lambs (2,846 F1 Dorper × Garut, 253 B1 backcrosses, and 149 Dorper) from a commercial enterprise in West Java. Data included lambing interval, litter size, birth weight, weaning weight, pre-weaning mortality, average daily gain (ADG), reproductive index, and productivity index. Statistical analyses employed one-way anal­ysis of variance with Duncan’s multiple range test for post hoc comparisons. F1 Dorper × Garut crossbred ewes demonstrated significantly shorter lambing intervals (206.65 ± 2.75 days) than pure Dorper (265.66 ± 1.14 days), comparable to Garut ewes (209.10 ± 1.08 days). However, Garut ewes had superior litter size (1.77 ± 0.18) relative to both crossbred (1.33 ± 0.04) and Dorper ewes (1.30 ± 0.42). In growth performance, Dorper lambs excelled in birth weight (3.35 ± 0.07 kg), weaning weight (23.93 ± 0.57 kg), and ADG (203.88 ± 4.65 g/day). F1 Dorper × Garut lambs showed significantly higher weaning weight (19.48 ± 0.35 kg) and ADG (165.34 ± 2.95 g/day) compared with Garut lambs (15.36 ± 0.10 kg; 130.47 ± 0.83 g/day). F1 Dorper × Garut crossbreeding synergizes Garut’s reproductive efficiency with Dorper’s growth performance, yielding crossbreds well-suited for tropical meat production. While Garut maintains a prolificacy advantage, F1 crossbreds deliver improved pre-weaning growth, supporting their use in commercial fattening programs. Maintaining pure Garut flocks for breeding and employing F1 crossbreds for production may enhance productivity and sustainability in Indonesia. Future research should assess carcass traits, multigenerational crossbreeding, and economic feasibility.

Canine distemper virus (CDV) remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality in dogs world­wide, particularly in unvaccinated populations. Current therapeutic options are largely supportive, with no widely available effective antiviral treatment. Nanotechnology-based therapies, such as copper nanoparticles (CuNPs), have recently shown promise against a range of viral pathogens. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of CuNPs in naturally infected dogs with CDV and to assess their effects on hematological and biochemical parameters. A total of 28 mixed-breed dogs (aged 2–8 months) were enrolled between January and February 2024. Clinical suspicion of CDV was confirmed by rapid immunochromatographic testing and reverse transcription poly­merase chain reaction (RT-PCR) targeting the N gene. Fifteen CDV-positive dogs received oral CuNPs (0.5 mg/kg, twice daily for 5 days), while five untreated CDV-positive dogs served as controls; five healthy dogs were also included as negative con­trols. Hematological and biochemical parameters were monitored before and after treatment. CuNPs were characterized by ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and zeta potential analysis. CDV was detected in 65% (15/23) of clinically suspected dogs by RT-PCR. Treated dogs demonstrated marked improvement in clinical signs, with complete recovery in all non-neurological cases and a 75% recovery rate in neurological cases. Hematological analyses revealed significant increases (p < 0.05) in red blood cell count, hemoglobin, packed cell vol­ume, platelet count, white blood cell count, and lymphocyte count in CuNP-treated dogs compared with untreated controls. Serum biochemistry showed reductions in alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, blood urea nitrogen, and creatinine, alongside improved albumin levels after treatment. No adverse effects were observed during or after therapy. CuNPs demonstrated significant antiviral activity and clinical benefit in dogs naturally infected with CDV. The findings suggest that CuNPs may represent a promising adjunctive therapy for canine distemper. However, larger controlled trials are warranted to validate efficacy, optimize dosing, and ensure long-term safety.

Cytology is a minimally invasive, rapid, and cost-effective diagnostic tool widely used in veterinary medicine for evaluating a broad range of lesions. While extensively applied in clinical practice, large-scale epidemiological analyses of cytologic findings in canine populations are limited. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of cytology in dogs in Portugal, assessing associations between lesion type, anatomical location, and demographic factors, and to identify patterns that can improve diagnostic utility in veterinary practice. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 12,671 cytological samples collected from canine patients between January 2010 and December 2016, submitted by 355 veterinary practices across mainland Portugal. Samples were categorized by anatomical location and diagnostic classification (neoplastic, inflammatory, non-neoplastic/non-inflammatory, and other). Demographic variables (sex, age, and breed) were recorded. Statistical analyses included non-parametric tests, logistic regression, and trend analyses to explore associations between diagnostic outcomes and study variables. The overall diagnostic yield was 69.03%, with the highest rates in fluid (80.21%), mucosal (77.08%), and glandular (75.78%) samples. Cutaneous/subcutaneous lesions, although the most frequent, had the lowest diagnostic yield (66.12%). Of diagnostic cases, 43.94% were neoplastic, with prevalence increasing significantly with age, from 17.75% in dogs ≤1 year to 54.75% in those >10–15 years (p < 0.001). Females were more likely to present epithelial and mesenchymal lesions, while males more frequently had round cell and melanocytic lesions. Breed analysis revealed no significant predispositions after statistical adjustment. Veterinary hospitals achieved higher diagnostic rates than clinics (p = 0.002). Non-diagnostic samples (30.97%) were primarily attributed to poor sample quality or insufficient cellularity. Cytology is a valuable first-line diagnostic modality in canine veterinary practice, particularly effective for fluid, mucosal, and glandular lesions. Lesion prevalence varies significantly with age and sex, highlighting the need for tailored diag­nostic considerations. Standardizing sample collection and preparation techniques, especially for anatomical sites with lower yields, could further improve diagnostic accuracy. While the absence of histopathological confirmation limits definitive clas­sification, the large dataset and standardized diagnostic review strengthen the reliability of findings. Integrating cytology into routine diagnostics can enhance early disease detection, guide treatment decisions, and support epidemiological surveillance.

Canine pancreatitis is often complicated by acute kidney injury (AKI) and systemic comorbidities, both of which may worsen clinical outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate survival rates in dogs with pancreatitis, stratified by the presence of AKI and other concurrent diseases, and to identify prognostic indicators for mortality. A retrospective cohort study was conducted at Prasu Arthorn Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Mahidol University, Thailand, from February 2021 to February 2023. Medical records of 146 dogs diagnosed with pancreatitis (serum canine pancreatic lipase ≥400 μg/L and clinical signs) were reviewed. Dogs were categorized into four groups: Pancreatitis alone (n = 24), pancreatitis with AKI (n = 28), pancreatitis with concurrent diseases (n = 57), and pancreatitis with both AKI and concurrent diseases (n = 34). Survival was analyzed using Kaplan–Meier curves and log-rank tests, while prognostic factors were assessed using Cox proportional hazards regression. The overall mortality rate was 39.72% (58/146), with the highest mortality in dogs with AKI (Groups 2 and 4). Median survival was 4 days (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.0–11.7) in Group 2 and 7 days (95% CI: 2.7–11.2) in Group 4, while median survival was not reached in Groups 1 and 3 due to high survival. Hematocrit (HCT) and blood urea nitro­gen-to-creatinine ratio (BCR) were identified as independent predictors of mortality. Lower HCT (Hazard ratio [HR] = 0.967, 95% CI: 0.941–0.994, p = 0.019) and higher BCR (HR = 1.024, 95% CI: 1.007–1.041, p = 0.006) were significantly associated with increased risk of death. AKI is a major negative prognostic factor in canine pancreatitis, markedly reducing survival irrespective of concurrent systemic diseases. Readily available markers, such as HCT and BCR, provide practical tools for early triage and prognostic stratification. Incorporating these parameters into clinical decision-making may enhance outcomes by guiding intensive monitoring and targeted interventions.

Donggala cattle (Bos indicus), indigenous to Central Sulawesi, Indonesia, are recognized for their pro­ductive and reproductive performance. However, molecular information on their genetic diversity is scarce. Understanding genetic variability is essential for sustainable conservation and targeted breeding strategies. This study aimed to charac­terize the genetic diversity and relationships of Donggala cattle using microsatellite markers and advanced multivariate analyses. Seventy-five blood samples were collected from unrelated Donggala cattle in Central Sulawesi. Genomic DNA was extracted and amplified across ten Food and Agriculture Organization-recommended microsatellite loci. Allele frequency, observed heterozygosity (Ho), expected heterozygosity, and polymorphism information content (PIC) were calculated. Genetic distances and clustering were assessed using Unweighted Pair Group Method with Arithmetic Mean (UPGMA) and analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA). Two- and three-dimensional principal component analysis (PCA) was conducted to visualize genetic differentiation, with comparative datasets from other Indonesian cattle breeds. High allelic diversity was detected, with SPS113 (12 alleles), ETH225 (11 alleles), and TGLA122 (9 alleles) being the most informative markers (PIC: 0.80–0.84). Ho was highest at ETH225 (0.95), reflecting substantial genetic variation. UPGMA and admixture analyses placed Donggala cattle closest to Pesisir cattle, though phenotypically more similar to larger B. indicus breeds such as Ongole Grade. The 3D PCA provided enhanced discriminatory power, distinctly separat­ing Donggala from exotic and crossbred cattle and differentiating Bali cattle from Banteng. AMOVA indicated that 22% of genetic variation existed among populations, while 21% was among individuals. Donggala cattle exhibit considerable genetic diversity, underscoring their value as a reservoir for breeding and conservation programs. Microsatellite markers, particularly SPS113, ETH225, and TGLA122, proved highly informative for genetic assessment. The application of 3D PCA enhanced resolution in distinguishing closely related breeds, supporting its use in molecular characterization. These findings provide essential baseline data for sustainable management, conserva­tion, and genetic improvement of Donggala cattle.

Non-typhoidal Salmonella (NTS) is a leading cause of foodborne illness, with poultry products serving as major transmission routes. In sub-Saharan Africa, surveillance of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and virulence determi­nants remains limited. This study investigated the prevalence, AMR, and virulence gene profiles of NTS isolated from poultry products retailed in Arusha, Tanzania. A cross-sectional study was conducted between August and October 2023. A total of 240 samples (layer eggs and broiler meat) were collected from two wards in Arusha City using systematic random sampling. NTS isolates were confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and tested for susceptibility to 11 antimicrobial agents using the Kirby–Bauer method. Virulence (invA and stn) and resistance genes (tetA, tetB, blaTEM, blaCTXM, and blaSHV) were screened by PCR. Statistical associations were analyzed using odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). The overall prevalence of NTS was 23.3% (56/240). Layer eggs showed significantly higher contamination (20%) compared with broiler meat (3.3%) (OR = 10.0, 95% CI: 4.4–22.6, p < 0.001). Salmonella Typhimurium was the predomi­nant serotype. All isolates carried invA and stn genes. Alarmingly, 100% of isolates were resistant to imipenem (IMI), while resistance to ampicillin (58.9%) and tetracycline (41.1%) was also common. Multidrug resistance patterns were frequent, although resistance genes were detected at a low prevalence (tetA, 5.3%; blaTEM, 3.5%). The findings demonstrate a high prevalence of virulent and IMI-resistant S. Typhimurium in retail poultry prod­ucts in Arusha, particularly in eggs. These results highlight critical gaps in food safety regulation and antimicrobial steward­ship within the Tanzanian One Health framework. Further genomic studies are warranted to elucidate underlying resistance mechanisms and inform effective surveillance strategies.