Information on production potential of Holstein Friesian calves raised under various
sources of drinking water with different levels of TDS as well as its adaptability has not been
documented yet in central Punjab. In this regard, this study was designed to evaluate the effect of
drinking water sources on physiological and production parameters in Holstein Friesian calves.
Holstein Friesian calves exposed to increasing level of TDS water conditions at dairy
farms may exhibit variation in water intake and reduce dry matter intake that might ultimately
lead to deviation in growth performance from normal range. In order to test this hypothesis, the
proposed study was carried out.
To evaluate the physiological and productive profile of Holstein Friesian calves subjected
to various sources of drinking water with different levels of TDS and minerals concentration
under subtropical conditions, the proposed experiment was conducted at Dairy Training and
Research Demonstration Farm Ravi Campus B Block, Pattoki, University of Veterinary and
Animal Sciences, Lahore. For this purpose, 18 Holstein Friesian calves of the similar age and
weight were randomly selected from the herd maintained at Dairy Training and Research
Demonstration Farm and were divided into three groups i.e. A, B and C with 6 Holstein Friesian
calves in each group. The calves from group A were provided turbine water for drinking
purpose.
CHAPTER 6
SUMMARY
Summary
32
Similarly, calves from group B and C were subjected to normal tap water and processed water
from reverse osmosis unit, respectively. The availability of water was made possible for 24 hours
in front of animals. The water was provided under the shed to these calves. The water troughs
were kept neat and clean during whole of the experimental period. The calves were given free
approach to water trough. The water from three sources were supplied to study the comparative
performance of calves. The data on water intake and dry matter intake were observed daily.
Whereas, weight gain was calculated on fortnightly basis. Feed digestibility was done at end of
trial. Blood mineral profile sampling was done at start and end of trial, all serum samples were
analyzed by spectrometer. The data thus collected were analyzed using analysis of variance
(ANOVA) techniques through (SAS, 2004). Difference among treatment means will be tested
through least significance difference.
The results of experiment were helpful to determine the appropriate water quality (1632.0
TDS to 172 TDS) to enhance the growth of Holstein Friesian calves in central Punjab. This will
also provide useful guideline for safe use of drinking water in the areas having water quality
problems. Calves exposed to low TDS water showed higher water, feed intake and weight gain.
Feed digestibility and blood calcium, phosphorus and magnesium levels were not affected with
increase in salinity of water while ALT values are slightly higher in high TDS water group.
It was concluded that provision of different sources of water with varying levels of TDS
(1632.0 to 172 ppm) had no significant affect on growth of post weaned calves. More research is
to be required to investigate the effect of water quality on growth at different stages of calves for
more prolonged duration. Similar studies are suggested for the indigenous animals for long
Summary
33
period of time. So that a comprehensive findings may be achieved in this regard. It is suggested
that livestock may be offered water of same quality which is consumed by human beings.