Topic: Incidence of exertional rhabdomyolysis in emus (Dromaius novaehollandiae) consequent to transport for six hours.  Incidence of exertional rhabdomyolysis in emus (Dromaius novaehollandiae) consequent to transport for six hours.

Many emu farms are located in areas lacking slaughter and processing facilities that can handle these birds. Transport over distances invariably result in injuries, mortality and malaise in emus. The attempt in this study is to examine the changes in hematology, serum biochemistry, enzymes and corticosterone levels in emus to evaluate the systemic changes consequent to transport. Two trials were conducted wherein emus were transported in a modified horse trailer for about 6 hours.
The core body temperature of emus significantly increased (P<0.001) after transport. Both the blood glucose and creatinine levels were increased significantly (P<0.001) at slaughter, while albumin levels and UA: creatinine ratios were decreased and this was irrespective of the sexes. There was significantly higher (P<001) ALT, AST and CK levels after transport. The blood calcium levels were significantly (P=0.020) reduced so also there was increase in serum potassium and sodium levels. The clinical picture was suggestive of the incidence of exertional rhabdomyolysis and thus underlines the need to exercise extreme caution while handling and transporting emus.