Bem-estar animal: influência na produção de bovinos de corte

Abstract

The cattle represents the most profitable agricultural activity in Brazil, characterized by a great and constant growth and development, which makes the country one of the main world in the production and commerce of beef. In Brazil, the concern for welfare goes beyond animal care. In addition to increasing production as a consequence of better animal comfort conditions, the search for better quality food for the Brazilian population is sought. Therefore, the concern with the way the species of production are maintained and the preservation of the animals used in the production of food is of paramount importance. Therefore, the objective of this work was to quantify and qualify the importance of animal welfare in beef cattle, within the productive structure of small and large farms, through the direct observation of some relevant aspects that ensure animal welfare. A total of ten farms were visited in the state,Barsil, in which the animals were evaluated during the usual management. Characteristics related to facilities, adequate supply of food and water, shading, vocalizations, injuries and pains, as well as work team and technical training were evaluated. The properties had satisfactory facilities, provided adequate food and water and had a suitable shading, ensuring the quality life of the animals. It was verified the presence of lesions and pains in all the properties, as well as the vocalizations. The feeling of fear was observed only in some properties. As for the technical team, it was found that all employees had already completed some type of technical training.