Preparatory work for the scientific opinion on welfare assessment of dairy cows in small scale farming systems

Abstract

Objectives of this preparatory work were (i) to collect data for the description and the categorisation of European Small-Scale Dairy Farms (SSDF) based on size, farming system and husbandry practices and (ii) to analyse the feasibility in SSDF of animal-based measures usually used for intensive farming. Criteria identified, through a public call for information and a literature review, to consider a farm as a SSDF were herd size (up to 75 cows including dry and lactating) and a categorisation as “non-conventional”. To be eligible as non-conventional, a farm should fulfil at least two criteria of the four following criteria: the farm should be family-run, have low concentrate use, be in a local breed scheme and in a specific production scheme. Literature was reviewed for identifying the risk factors in SSDF and for adapting the welfare assessment to SSDF. An on-farm survey was carried out to assess the feasibility of the protocol and to collect data from 124 dairy farms in four European countries (Austria, France, Italy, and Spain). Assessors were asked to assess the feasibility of the protocol in general, the animal based measures and to suggest improvements where necessary. Farmers were asked about the usefulness of animal-based measures. From 124 dairy farms visited 119 were considered as SSDF. From assessor’s experiences, animal-based measures may be applied in SSDF at least during the winter housing period. And there are no reasons to assume that methods and measures of welfare assessment in SSDF is substantially different from larger, intensively run farms. Feeding and access to pasture were the most relevant criteria for the farmers to warrant that animal welfare is ensured in their farm. A large majority of them agreed that animal based measure could be a relevant tool for the improvement of health and welfare and half of them would prefer an external assessment and advice rather than a self-tool assessment.