Draught animals and welfare.

N S Ramaswamy

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PubMed · 8173096

Draught animals and welfare.

N S Ramaswamy

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Abstract

In fifty developing countries, which contain half of the total human population of the world, there is a heavy dependence on draught animals as an energy source. These animals are used for agriculture operations in 52% of cultivated areas of the world, as well as for hauling 25 million carts. This situation is likely to continue for at least another fifty years. The work performed annually by these draught animals would require 20 million tons of petroleum, valued at US$6 billion, if it were performed by motorized vehicles. The poor working conditions of these animals often adversely affect their productivity. The application of improved technology and better management (i.e. through better feed and health services, and improved design of agricultural implements and carts) could considerably improve the welfare of these animals. Improved systems would generate sufficient benefits for the economy to justify the required investment. High priority should therefore be given to draught animal power in the economic development agenda.

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Agriculture Animal Husbandry Animal Welfare Animals Animals, Domestic Buffaloes Camelus Cattle Developing Countries Horses Male Perissodactyla Physical Exertion Veterinary Medicine Journal Article

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N S Ramaswamy. 1994. Draught animals and welfare.. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8173096/

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