Links of interest

AWEC has evaluated the feasibility of predictive disease detection in fattening calves based on water consumption and other variables related to the behavior of calves, their physiology and other variables from the environment. Project funded with the support...

The Livestock Guardian Dog: the best friend of extensive livestock farming

Livestock guardian dogs (LGDs) remain the most effective non-lethal method to reduce losses to predators. However, despite the efficacy and widespread use of LGDs, many farmers still struggle to raise these dogs in an effective manner. A mismatch is often found...

Raising pigs with entire tails: experiences from commercial farms

The lack of cases of successful farms raising pigs without tail docking makes farmers, technicians and veterinarians skeptical about implementing these measures at the commercial level. In this section we describe the follow-up and experience of commercial farms that...

Disbudding calves: How to reduce pain and stress?

Pain management in disbudding by cauterization (hot iron) in calves. Disbudding in calves is a relatively routine practice, especially in dairy cattle farms. This is mainly because polled animals are easier to handle and dehorning decreases the risk of injury to both...

Alpacas as guardians of free range hens at Mas Castanyer

Mas Castanyer (www.mascastanyer.cat), an organic farm of 1300 hens located at La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park, decided to fight against constant attacks from predators to their hens with an innovative and sustainable method: introducing two young male alpacas...

New housing systems for farrowing sows at Mas Vilallonga

The Rubirola brothers decided to undertake huge structural changes in the farrowing unit of Mas Vilallonga (www.gerfamrubirola.info) located at Riudellots de la Selva to improve the welfare of their sows. Conventional crates have been replaced by free-farrowing pens...