Comparative Evaluation of Electrocardiographic Parameters of Red Sokoto Goat at Different Reproductive Stages

T he circulatory efficiency is critical for effective repro- ductive processes as it transports hormones and nutrients to coordinate and improve the various processes properly.This could not be achieved without active cardiac function.Understanding the functional architecture of the cardia is a key to successful breeding program as it reveals the functional ability of the heart to pump adequate blood volume to support pregnancy and sustain lactation.The electrocardiogram (ECG) is a graphical record of the direction and magnitude of the electrical activity generated by the depolarization and repolarization of the heart that provides relevant information in the diagnosis of conduction abnormalities (Luthra, 2012).The northern region of Nigeria plays an important role in goat production in the African continent and the world in general (Njidda et al., 2013).The Red Sokoto goat is the predominant and most famousbreed of goat found mainly in Sudan and Sahel savanna zone or the Sokoto province, North-western zone of Nigeria (Obua et al., 2012).This breed plays a vital role in the economic life of many families (Abdalla et al., 2009).The qualities of theRed Sokoto goat that led to its popularity and demand worldwide include its adaptability, qual-