AVALIAÇÃO DAS INSTALAÇÕES PARA BEZERROS EM PROPRIEDADES DO MUNICÍPIO DE CATURITÉ - PARAIBA

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the facilities used for calves in properties of the municipality of Caturité- Paraiba. The study was conducted on 15 properties in may-june of 2016. For data collection the properties were visited to assess the facilities and data collection through a questionnaire containing questions about facilities and handling and a questionnaire was applied. The collective facilities were as the most used can were classified as well-sized. The positioning of the hutch housing were adequate, but did not meet the appropriate distance of the adult animal facilities. Beds are not used in hutch housing which compromised the thermal comfort and hygiene, this latter aspect has the aggravating of not to be performed in the correct frequency. Were identified favorable and unfavorable aspects regarding the ventilation of the hutch housing, as good renewal of the air and airstream, respectively. The water quality was rated as poor in most properties. The involvement of the keepers of calves with activities not related to the management of calves is an unfavorable aspect. The rates of deaths and illnesses in the properties were considered superior to the acceptable. The failures ranging from structural problems and poor hygienic-sanitary management were identified in 100% of the properties, requiring intense awareness on the importance of good facilities to ensure the health of the calf, welfare and turn the calves into highly productive animals.