Physiological Stress Markers in Sheep Transported to Jos, Plateau State from Northern Markets

The transportation of Yankasa and Uda sheep from northern markets in Kano, Sokoto, and Zamfara to market towns in Plateau State involves journeys of several hundred kilometres under variable road, temperature, and stocking density conditions. Pre-slaughter stress compromises meat quality, immune function, and welfare. This study measured physiological stress markers in sheep arriving at Jos market from northern origins after road transport journeys averaging 350 kilometres. Sixty sheep were sampled at three time points: immediately upon arrival, after 24 hours of lairage, and after 72 hours. Serum cortisol, glucose, lactate, creatine kinase, and fibrinogen were measured at each time point. Physical examination scores for lameness, respiratory distress, and dehydration were recorded. Cortisol concentrations were significantly elevated at arrival compared with reference ranges for undisturbed sheep, with a mean of 73.4 nmol/L declining to 31.2 nmol/L after 72 hours. Creatine kinase was markedly elevated at arrival, indicating muscle damage consistent with prolonged standing and falls during transit. Lactate was elevated above normal in 73.3 percent of animals at arrival. Dehydration signs were present in 61.7 percent of sheep at arrival. Recovery of all measured parameters to near-normal values occurred by 72 hours. Stocking density above the guideline threshold of 0.3 square metres per 40 kg animal was associated with significantly higher post-transport creatine kinase concentrations. These results support improved transport regulation and mandatory recovery periods before slaughter for sheep transported to Jos markets. Keywords: transport stress, sheep, cortisol, creatine kinase, Plateau State.