CURRENT STATUS AND ANIMAL WELFARE ISSUES OF DAIRY FARMS AT SITAKUNDA UPAZILA IN CHATTOGRAM, BANGLADESH

Abstract

The study was aimed at observing the present status of dairy farms, and to determine the welfare issues faced by dairy cows at Sitakunda Upazilla, Chattogram from 31st January 2022 to 12th May 2022. About 16 dairy farms were selected randomly. Data was collected through direct interviews with farmers, followed by inspect and observe dairy cows. A total of 317 females (87 heifers and 232 cows) were included in this study. The results showed that farmers with high level of education have more productivity. About 56.24% of farmers had honors education level. Most of the farmers used concrete floor about 62.50% in their farm that cause injury of hock joint, knee region, teat and few people used bedding materials over the concrete floor where injury level was lower than concrete floor. Most of the farm was affected by fly infestation about 56.25% as the farmers did not take measures to control flies. Overall, the study mainly describes about the farm production, management and welfare issues on the selected farm. The results of the study will help plan for further improvement of the dairy industry.