There is a general tendency in European society to consider animal welfare as a priority. In this contest it is increasing the need to develop a method to evaluate “on farm” animal welfare in a simple and in an objective way. This could give farmers useful information to focus critical points in management practices and consequently respect law requirements and consumers expectations. The present study involved fourteen Maremmana farms, evaluating on-farm animal welfare using the ANI 35L method that, taking into account five essential critical points (Locomotion, Social interaction, Flooring, Light and air and Stockmanship), gives a score and a final overall grade of the farm. Moreover Body Condition Score was assessed. Cows scored 39.6 while Calves attained 31.3 ANI score, matching with the “Very suitable” welfare judgment. This different evaluation was due to different rearing techniques. In addition, by means of the ratio value between ANI result in each welfare critical points and the maximum obtainable ANI score in the same class, “Flooring” showed the lowest value. Results showed good levels of animal welfare in most of farms. BCS resulted 3.2 – 3.8 pointing out good nutritional status of animals. Our approach represent a valid and simple way to detect farm problems in both structure and management, with the aim of improving live conditions in farms animals.
VALUTAZIONE DEL BENESSERE ANIMALE IN ALLEVAMENTI DI BOVINI DI RAZZA MAREMMANA
GIULIOTTI, LORELLA;BENVENUTI, MARIA NOVELLA;
2007-01-01
Abstract
There is a general tendency in European society to consider animal welfare as a priority. In this contest it is increasing the need to develop a method to evaluate “on farm” animal welfare in a simple and in an objective way. This could give farmers useful information to focus critical points in management practices and consequently respect law requirements and consumers expectations. The present study involved fourteen Maremmana farms, evaluating on-farm animal welfare using the ANI 35L method that, taking into account five essential critical points (Locomotion, Social interaction, Flooring, Light and air and Stockmanship), gives a score and a final overall grade of the farm. Moreover Body Condition Score was assessed. Cows scored 39.6 while Calves attained 31.3 ANI score, matching with the “Very suitable” welfare judgment. This different evaluation was due to different rearing techniques. In addition, by means of the ratio value between ANI result in each welfare critical points and the maximum obtainable ANI score in the same class, “Flooring” showed the lowest value. Results showed good levels of animal welfare in most of farms. BCS resulted 3.2 – 3.8 pointing out good nutritional status of animals. Our approach represent a valid and simple way to detect farm problems in both structure and management, with the aim of improving live conditions in farms animals.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
