Examination of dairy cattle farms in Burdur province in terms of animal welfare

This study aims to assess the status of dairy cattle farms in Burdur province with regard to animal welfare. A total of 56 dairy cattle farms were visited, and face-to-face interviews were conducted with owners. Findings revealed that 32.1% of dairy cattle breeders had received vocational training, with 19.6% having undergone training solely in animal nutrition, and 12.5% possessing information and training specifically related to animal welfare. Most breeders (91.1%) preferred the semi-open shelter type and the eastern direction (67.9%) as the long-axis direction. Concrete was preferred construction material for shelter bases in the majority of cases (98.2%). However, it was noted that certain aspects crucial to animal welfare, such as the loading ramp, vaccination route, and urinary tract, were not adequately incorporated into the planning process. Manure cleaning was typically performed every six months (32.1%), with 60.7% utilizing a tractor for assistance. In the observations made, it was determined that the cows had hoof problems (53.6%) and lameness was low (33.9%). It was determined that the legs (44.0%), thighs (44.9%), and udder-abdomen area (44.2%) of the cows were dirty. It was determined that cows had an average body condition score of 2.25-3.5 (38.9%) and a rumen fill score of 3 (38.1%). It was determined that the cows had easy access to water and were fed in two meals (91.1%) in the morning and evening. The results showed deficiencies regarding animal welfare in the planning and management of shelters in dairy cattle farms in Burdur province.