Good afternoon everybody. First, let me introduce myself. My name is “Nhiên" and I’m
delighted to be here today to talk about “effects of barn stress on animal behavior ”.
A barn: a large farm building used for housing livestock. When we build a barn we must think through their basic needs.
If we provide them an adequate space to turn around or lie down,...?
Because animals are kept in confined spaces, which can cause discomfort, lameness, and aggression.
If it is ok to use these types of feeders, drinkers?
Will they have access to adequate food and water?
With all of the questions above, I mean animals should be provided with an appropriate
environment, including adequate shelter, fresh clean bedding, and a comfortable resting area. Let's talk about the floor:
If we want the animals to grow in a good condition we should provide a comfortable, clean,
well-drained and dry lying area.
These are many materials used to make the floor, concrete, slatted floor, earthen or straw, …
In many farms, concrete floors are very prevalent because of its advantages (inexpensive,
low labor, easy to clean, well-drained,..)
But it still have some disadvantages, the concrete floor is hard, poorly maintained or
slippery flooring are common causes of physical injuries (lameness)
Floor with straw or wood shavings:
Animals prefer earthen floors over concrete because of its soft surface, more friendly with the animals.
But it costs a lot, it is hard to clean and needs more time, more labor, wet, they may act as a
substrate for bacterial growth → dirty floor cause infection
The type of flooring and bedding should provide sufficient thermal insulation, a low risk of
abrasion, and an appropriate degree of softness and friction. The best bedding material is
most likely a soft synthetic that provides comfort without increasing the risk of infection.
The walls of a barn help to protect the animals from outside environment but there are also some disadvantages.
When designing new buildings, ventilation should be carefully considered as poor ventilation
can cause health and welfare issues. Air circulation, dust levels, temperature and relative
humidity must be kept within limits that are safe for both animals and humans. Desirable
ventilation properties include the ability for the building to remove excess heat, water vapor,
dust and microorganisms as well as being able to provide a uniform distribution of air and
provide the correct air speed for stock.
Feeders and drinkers help us easily control their diet, supply clean water and food, and
avoid eating food that comes in direct contact with soil.
Farmed animals’ welfare is greatly limited when food and water is restricted, which also
leads to aggressive behavior. Farmed animals should have ready access to fresh water and
a diet to maintain full health and vigor.
Feeding instruments should be at an appropriate location and height for farm animals and
the feeding instruments should be checked for blockages daily.
ensure to have enough food and drink with adequate nutrients to avoid stress, frustration
(fighting for food, biting each other →-physical injuries; heat stress;....)