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Lima-Campêlo VR, Paradis ME, Arango-Sabogal JC, Beauregard N, Roy JP, Racicot M, Aenishaenslin C, Dufour S. Biosecurity adoption in Québec dairy farms: Results from a risk assessment questionnaire analyzed using conventional and unsupervised artificial intelligence methods. J Dairy Sci 2024; 107:6000-6014. [PMID: 38522832 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2023-24256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
This study documents the current state of biosecurity on dairy farms in Québec following the implementation of a mandatory biosecurity risk evaluation that was part of the proAction accreditation program developed by Dairy Farmers of Canada. Using a cross-sectional design, 3,825 risk assessment questionnaires completed between 2018 and 2021 were extracted from Vigil-Vet database, which is a software used by veterinarians for conducting the proAction risk assessment. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the practices adopted by dairy producers. Additionally, multiple correspondence analysis was used to explore the association between the diseases of most concern and the adoption of biosecurity practices. Moreover, we used a hierarchical cluster analysis on principal components to identify distinct patterns of biosecurity practices among dairy producers. This analysis enabled the identification of typologies or clusters of farms based on the specific biosecurity practices they currently employ. The results of the descriptive statistics indicated that mastitis was the disease of most concern for most dairy farmers (40%). Moreover, given that only 10% of the 2,237 dairy farmers who acquired animals adhered to quarantine practices, there seems to be a need for improved implementation of biosecurity measures aimed at restricting the introduction of diseases when introducing new animals. Conversely, cleaning stalls and health equipment were adequately addressed by 95% and 86% of dairy producers, respectively. The multiple correspondence analysis indicated no significant association between the disease of most concern and the farm's biosecurity profile, except for respondents who identified digital dermatitis as their disease of most concern. Through the hierarchical cluster analysis, 3 clusters were identified among 3,581 farms: (1) Cluster 1 included farms with good management of sick animals; (2) Cluster 2 included farms with good management of young animals; and (3) Cluster 3 included farms with poor management of sick animals and young animals. Our study makes an important contribution by providing valuable insights into the biosecurity practices currently adopted on Québec dairy farms. It establishes a baseline for assessing progress in biosecurity practices adoption and serves as a reference point for future evaluations. In addition, these findings play a key role in monitoring the effectiveness of interventions aimed at improving biosecurity on dairy farms. By making use of this knowledge, stakeholders can make informed decisions that prioritize animal health, increase productivity, and ensure sustainability of the dairy industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- V R Lima-Campêlo
- Département de pathologie et microbiologie, Faculté de médecine vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, J2S 7C6, Canada.
| | - M-E Paradis
- Association des médecins vétérinaires praticiens du Québec-DSAHR, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, J2S 5G7, Canada
| | - J C Arango-Sabogal
- Département de pathologie et microbiologie, Faculté de médecine vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, J2S 7C6, Canada
| | - N Beauregard
- School of Industrial Relations, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - J-P Roy
- Département de sciences cliniques, Faculté de médecine vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, J2S 7C6, Canada
| | - M Racicot
- Département de pathologie et microbiologie, Faculté de médecine vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, J2S 7C6, Canada; Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC J2S 2M2, Canada
| | - C Aenishaenslin
- Département de pathologie et microbiologie, Faculté de médecine vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, J2S 7C6, Canada
| | - S Dufour
- Département de pathologie et microbiologie, Faculté de médecine vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, J2S 7C6, Canada
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Power GM, Renaud DL, Miltenburg C, Spence KL, Hagen BNM, Winder CB. Ontario dairy producers' and veterinarians' perspectives: Barriers to biosecurity implementation. J Dairy Sci 2024; 107:5738-5753. [PMID: 38490560 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2024-24029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
Implementing biosecurity protocols is necessary to reduce the spread of disease on dairy farms. In Ontario biosecurity implementation is variable among farms, and the barriers to implementing biosecurity are unknown. Thirty-five semistructured interviews were conducted between July 2022 and January 2023 with dairy producers (n = 17) and veterinarians (n = 18). Participants also completed a demographic survey. Thematic analysis was performed with constructivist and grounded theory paradigms. Thematic coding was done inductively using NVivo software. Dairy producers' understanding of the definition of biosecurity varied, with all understanding that it was to prevent the spread of disease. Furthermore, the most common perception was that biosecurity prevented the spread of disease onto the farm. Both veterinarians and producers stated that closed herds were one of the most important biosecurity protocols. Barriers to biosecurity implementation included a lack of resources, internal and external business influencers, individual perceptions of biosecurity, and a lack of industry initiative. Understanding the barriers producers face provides veterinarians with the chance to tailor their communication to ensure barriers are reduced or for other industry members to reduce the barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- G M Power
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1 Canada.
| | - D L Renaud
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1 Canada
| | - C Miltenburg
- Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Guelph, ON, N1G 4Y2 Canada
| | - K L Spence
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1 Canada
| | - B N M Hagen
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1 Canada
| | - C B Winder
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1 Canada
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Power GM, Renaud DL, Miltenburg C, Spence KL, Hagen BNM, Winder CB. Graduate Student Literature Review: Perceptions of biosecurity in a Canadian dairy context. J Dairy Sci 2024; 107:4605-4615. [PMID: 38310960 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2023-24033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
The objective of this review was to outline current implementation of biosecurity, the impact of biosecurity on the industry, and producers' and veterinarians' perceptions of biosecurity, with a focus on the Canadian dairy industry. Biosecurity has an important role in farm safety by reducing the spread of pathogens and contaminants, improving animal health and production, and maintaining human safety. Implementation of biosecurity practices varies among farms and countries. Because Canada's supply management system is different than other countries, different barriers and perceptions of biosecurity may exist. Producers may have negative perspectives on biosecurity, such as it being expensive or time consuming. Producers are motivated or deterred from biosecurity implementation for many reasons, including perceived value, disease risk, and financial incentives or deterrents. In addition, because veterinarians are a trusted source of information, their approaches to discussions on biosecurity implementation are important to understand. Veterinarians and producers appear to have differing opinions on the importance of biosecurity and approaches to discussing biosecurity. Improving biosecurity implementation requires a multifactorial approach, such as individualized education and awareness for producers, further research into efficacy of and barriers to biosecurity, and development of strategies for effective communication between veterinarians and producers.
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Affiliation(s)
- G M Power
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1 Canada.
| | - D L Renaud
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1 Canada
| | - C Miltenburg
- Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, ON, N1G 4Y2 Canada
| | - K L Spence
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1 Canada
| | - B N M Hagen
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1 Canada
| | - C B Winder
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1 Canada
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Buchan MS, Lhermie G, Mijar S, Pajor E, Orsel K. Individual drivers and barriers to adoption of disease control and welfare practices in dairy and beef cattle production: a scoping review. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1104754. [PMID: 37483294 PMCID: PMC10357041 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1104754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The implementation of disease control and welfare practices is an essential part of limiting disease exposure in livestock, however successful adoption of these practices seem to be low in both the beef and dairy cattle industries. The main objectives of this scoping review were to characterize literature published exploring beef and dairy cattle producers' perceptions on the implementation of various disease control and welfare practices, identify major themes of drivers and barriers that influence producers' adoption of these practices, and identify current gaps in knowledge. A total of 2,486 articles were obtained from two database literature searches and screened, from which 48 articles published between 2010 and 2021 were deemed eligible and charted. Europe was the most common region for articles (58%). A majority of articles focused solely on dairy producers (52%). A wide range of barriers and drivers which were categorized into 4 and 5 key themes, respectively. The most commonly mentioned driver was animal health, welfare, and safety, while the most common barrier was costs. Potential gaps in literature were identified, including the underrepresentation of beef producer perceptions relative to dairy producers in current literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marrissa S. Buchan
- Department of Production Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Guillaume Lhermie
- Department of Production Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- The Simpson Centre for Agricultural and Food Policy, The School of Public Policy, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Sanjaya Mijar
- Department of Production Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Ed Pajor
- Department of Production Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Karin Orsel
- Department of Production Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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Pao HN, Jackson E, Yang TS, Tsai JS, Hwang YT, Sung WHT, Pfeiffer DU. The attitude-behaviour gap in biosecurity: Applying social theories to understand the relationships between commercial chicken farmers' attitudes and behaviours. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1070482. [PMID: 36846249 PMCID: PMC9947856 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1070482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Traditionally, it is believed that people's behaviours align with their attitudes; however, during COVID-19 pandemic, an attitude-behaviour gap in relation to preventive measures has been observed in recent studies. As such, the mixed-methods research was used to examine the relationships between farmers' biosecurity attitudes and behaviours in Taiwan's chicken industry based on the cognitive consistency theory. Methods Content analysis of face-to-face interviews with 15 commercial chicken farmers identified their biosecurity responses to infectious disease threats. Results The results indicated the mismatch of farmers' attitudes and behaviours towards specific biosecurity measures, in that they act differently than they think. The findings of the qualitative research allowed the research team to conduct the subsequent quantitative, confirmatory assessment to investigate the mismatch of farmers' attitudes and behaviours in 303 commercial broiler farmers. Survey data were analyzed to discover the relationships between farmers' attitudes and behaviours in relation to 29 biosecurity measures. The results show a mixed picture. The percentage of the farmers who had the attitude-behaviour gap towards 29 biosecurity measures ranged from 13.9 to 58.7%. Additionally, at the 5% significant level, there is an association between farmers' attitudes and behaviours for 12 biosecurity measures. In contrast, a significant association does not exist for the other 17 biosecurity measures. Specifically, out of the 17 biosecurity measures, the disconnection of farmers' attitudes and behaviours was observed in three specific biosecurity measures such as using a carcass storage area. Discussion Based on a fairly large sample of farmers in Taiwan, this study confirms the existence of an attitude-behaviour gap in context and applies social theories to provide an in-depth understanding of how infectious diseases are managed in the animal health context. As the results demonstrate the necessity of tailoring biosecurity strategies to address the gap, it is time to reconsider the current approach by understanding farmers' real attitudes and behaviours in relation to biosecurity for the success of animal disease prevention and control at the farm level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-ni Pao
- Veterinary Epidemiology, Economics and Public Health Group, Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, United Kingdom,*Correspondence: Hai-ni Pao ✉
| | - Elizabeth Jackson
- School of Management and Marketing, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | | | - Jyan-syung Tsai
- Department of Finance and Cooperative Management, National Taipei University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Yi-ting Hwang
- Department of Statistics, National Taipei University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | | | - Dirk U. Pfeiffer
- Veterinary Epidemiology, Economics and Public Health Group, Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, United Kingdom,Centre for Applied One Health Research and Policy Advice, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Moya S, Navea J, Casal J, Ciaravino G, Yus E, Diéguez FJ, Benavides B, Tirado F, Allepuz A. Government veterinarians' perceptions of routine biosecurity focused on dairy cattle farms in north-western and north-eastern Spain. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1043966. [PMID: 36846258 PMCID: PMC9944682 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1043966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The implementation of biosecurity measures in livestock production systems can be affected by the psychosocial factors of its stakeholders, which can be observed through their knowledge, attitudes and perceptions/practices. In Spain, there are no regulations per se to promote biosecurity. Of all stakeholders, farmers and veterinarians have been addressed in previous biosecurity studies, but not veterinarians belonging specifically to the government services. This study explores this particular group's perceptions of routine biosecurity in livestock production systems in north-western and north-eastern Spain, an understanding of which could help to improve the implementation of biosecurity measures on farms. Eleven interviews were conducted with veterinarians from different levels of the government services in Galicia and Catalonia, and were analyzed through content analysis. Dairy cattle farms were considered as the reference livestock production systems. The respondents stress the limited availability of staff and time resources for biosecurity. The advisory role of government veterinarians is not well recognized among farmers, who feel that their services prioritize their sanctioning role. In fact, government veterinarians consider that farmers only implement biosecurity measures to avoid being sanctioned, and not because they are aware of the importance of biosecurity. Meanwhile, the participants comment that biosecurity regulations should be flexible and need to consider the contexts of the farms where biosecurity measures are implemented. Finally, government veterinarians are willing to attend biosecurity meetings together with all farm stakeholders, at which the government services could be informed about biosecurity issues on farms. The person who could take on the biosecurity advisory role should be defined, along with further discussion of such matters as the responsibilities of each stakeholder. Government veterinary services need to be considered in studies of biosecurity operations in order to improve their implementation. It is therefore concluded that government veterinarians are seeking to balance their own institutional perspective with that of farmers and veterinarians in the routine implementation of biosecurity measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastián Moya
- Host-Pathogen Interactions (IHAP) - National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment (INRAE) - École Nationale Vétérinaire de Toulouse (ENVT), Toulouse, France,*Correspondence: Sebastián Moya ✉
| | - José Navea
- Latin American Center for Rural Development (RIMISP), Santiago, Chile
| | - Jordi Casal
- Department of Animal Health and Anatomy, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Giovanna Ciaravino
- Department of Animal Health and Anatomy, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eduardo Yus
- Department of Animal Pathology, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela (USC), Lugo, Spain
| | - Francisco Javier Diéguez
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Production and Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela (USC), Lugo, Spain
| | - Bibiana Benavides
- Department of Animal Health, Universidad de Nariño (UDENAR), Pasto, Colombia
| | - Francisco Tirado
- Department of Social Psychology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alberto Allepuz
- Department of Animal Health and Anatomy, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona, Spain
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7
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Osawe OW, Läpple D, Mee JF. Economic analysis of biosecurity adoption in dairy farming: Evidence from Ireland. J Anim Sci 2022; 100:6608473. [PMID: 35700524 PMCID: PMC9492279 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skac218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Given the significant negative impact of livestock disease outbreaks on animal and public health, preventing disease spread through biosecurity practices is important. In this study, we used a nationally representative dataset that included information on biosecurity practices of almost 300 Irish dairy farmers. We applied parametric and nonparametric estimation methods to assess the economic implications of adopting the following biosecurity measures: vaccination, bulk tank milk testing for diseases, and not pooling colostrum. We found mixed evidence of biosecurity practices on economic outcomes, measured as gross margins per cow. Specifically, we found that vaccination and testing bulk tank milk for diseases were significantly associated with better economic outcomes for dairy farms. However, we found no significant association with the economic performance of not pooling colostrum from more than one animal. Our findings have important policy implications required for targeting support for the adoption of biosecurity practices in dairy herds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osayanmon W Osawe
- Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI), Dublin, Ireland.,Department of Economics, Trinity College Dublin (TCD), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Doris Läpple
- Economics, National University of Ireland Galway (NUIG), Galway, Ireland
| | - John F Mee
- Teagasc Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Moorepark, Cork, Ireland
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Saraceni J, Renaud DL, Nelson E, Van Os JMC, Miltenburg C, Winder CB. Ontario Dairy Producers’ Perceived Barriers and Motivations to the Use of Pain Control for Disbudding and Dehorning Calves: A Qualitative Study. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12080973. [PMID: 35454220 PMCID: PMC9029834 DOI: 10.3390/ani12080973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary This study aimed to understand influences on producer behaviour towards the use of pain mitigation for disbudding and dehorning. Calf comfort, post-operative performance, and better farmer experiences were common motivators for pain control use. Barriers included cost, education, and producer attitude. Quality assurance requirements for disbudding and dehorning practices were received well by participants; however, there were requests for more education surrounding the application of pain control for these procedures. Veterinarians were highly influential for participants and were mentioned as an avenue for the reduction of pain control barriers via producer education. Abstract Canadian dairy farmers are required to use a local anesthetic and analgesic prior to all disbudding and dehorning procedures. This study was done to investigate the opinions of Ontario dairy farmers on the use of pain control for disbudding and dehorning calves and their perspectives on the current requirements of the quality assurance program. Interviews were conducted with 29 dairy farmers across Ontario. All participants used a cautery iron to disbud or dehorn their calves and some form of pain control (i.e., NSAID and/or local anesthetic). Of the 29 producers that were interviewed, 22 (76%) were in compliance with the proAction requirements for pain control. Many participants felt positive about the use of pain control for these practices. Education from veterinarians was one of the most commonly listed resources to reduce barriers to pain control use by producers. A farmer’s attitude was highly referenced as an influence on producer behaviour. Although participants had positive views of pain control use, full compliance with national quality assurance requirements for disbudding and dehorning was not met by all. Producer education through veterinarians is a potential avenue to encourage the adoption of pain control use for disbudding and dehorning practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Saraceni
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (J.S.); (D.L.R.)
| | - David L. Renaud
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (J.S.); (D.L.R.)
| | - Erin Nelson
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada;
| | - Jennifer M. C. Van Os
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA;
| | - Cynthia Miltenburg
- Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada;
| | - Charlotte B. Winder
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (J.S.); (D.L.R.)
- Correspondence:
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9
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Music J, Charlebois S, Marangoni AG, Ghazani SM, Burgess J, Proulx A, Somogyi S, Patelli Y. Data deficits and transparency: What led to Canada's ‘buttergate’. Trends Food Sci Technol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tifs.2022.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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10
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Biosecurity at Cattle Farms: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10101315. [PMID: 34684268 PMCID: PMC8538770 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10101315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Revised: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Biosecurity is a key component of any animal and public health strategy and disease prevention and control programs. This study reviewed the main findings of different studies implemented from 2015 to 2021 to analyse the biosecurity situation at Belgian cattle farms, including attitudes and behaviours of cattle farmers and rural veterinarians regarding biosecurity measures. Specifically, the objective was to perform a SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats) analysis of the situation and propose a new conceptual framework improving the level of biosecurity in the cattle sector. Biosecurity in cattle farming remains relatively low and faces multiple challenges. Its future improvement requires the different stakeholders to agree on shared goals and objectives and to carefully consider animal, public and environmental health, as well as socioeconomic and cultural factors. Further cost efficiency studies are required to identify the most important biosecurity measures and convince the stakeholders of their utility and benefits. Cattle farmers rely mainly on rural veterinarians for technical guidance and consider them as trustful informants. To be more effective in promoting these good practices, rural veterinarians need a proper guidance from the authorities, a proper training on biosecurity and communication, as well as an enabling environment.
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11
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Yung MT, Vázquez RC, Liebman A, Brihn A, Olson A, Loken D, Contreras-Smith A, Bender J, Kirsch JD. COVID-19 Awareness and Preparedness of Minnesota and Wisconsin Dairy Farms. J Agromedicine 2021; 26:352-359. [PMID: 33969812 DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2021.1927925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Dairy farms that had participated in previous and ongoing projects with the National Farm Medicine Center (NFMC), Migrant Clinicians Network (MCN), and Upper Midwest Agricultural Safety and Health Center (UMASH) were asked to participate in a 17-question survey by phone or email to investigate biosecurity principles on Minnesota and Wisconsin dairy farms in response to COVID-19 and the effects of the pandemic on the dairy industry. Three additional farms were recruited via a press release published in agricultural newsletters. Of 76 farms contacted, 37 chose to participate in this study from June to July 2020. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, dairies have implemented or increased biosecurity measures and COVID-19 precautions. Dairies reported adequate personal protective equipment for their workers, though face masks were not required on most dairies (n = 32, 86%). Producers were concerned about the safety of their families, maintaining a healthy workforce, and keeping their farms profitable. Access to healthcare was not perceived to be an issue for their workers. One-quarter of dairies reported COVID-19 infections on their farms. Even though the majority had an isolation protocol in place if someone on the farm were to become ill, less than half of respondents felt their farm was protected against COVID-19. Two-thirds of producers have not had to decrease production, and a majority of operations have not furloughed or terminated employees due to COVID-19. Our data suggest that dairy farms in Minnesota and Wisconsin have implemented biosecurity and safety measures in response to COVID-19. These measures can be improved. Farms would benefit from additional guidance and education on implementation of personal protective measures and disease prevention strategies to keep workers employed and safe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mung Ting Yung
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - RosaI Chela Vázquez
- Upper Midwest Agricultural Safety and Health Center, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Amy Liebman
- Migrant Clinicians Network, Salisbury, MD, USA
| | - Auguste Brihn
- University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine,Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | | | | | - Ana Contreras-Smith
- Upper Midwest Agricultural Safety and Health Center, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Jeff Bender
- Upper Midwest Agricultural Safety and Health Center, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.,University of Minnesota School of Public Health, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Jonathan D Kirsch
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA.,Upper Midwest Agricultural Safety and Health Center, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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12
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Influence on the implementation of biosecurity measures in dairy cattle farms: Communication between veterinarians and dairy farmers. Prev Vet Med 2021; 190:105329. [PMID: 33756432 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2021.105329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 03/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
This study was carried out in two regions in Spain (Catalonia and Galicia) through eight focus groups; four for dairy farmers and four for veterinarians. The results showed that dairy farmers and veterinarians attributed responsibility to one another for not following biosecurity practices. The study brings to light contradictions among veterinarians and certain individual veterinary practices that participated in the study, which lead to doubt and confusion on the part of dairy farmers. Distinct perceptions were also identified of the role that government authorities should play in relation both to training and sanctions as a means of improving biosecurity on dairy farms. Additionally, the participants expressed varying opinions as to whether biosecurity measures ought to be made mandatory or remain voluntary. Results from this study highlight the need to promote initiatives through which distinct stakeholders such as veterinarians, government authorities, and dairy farmers can develop consensus-based messages on the implementation of biosecurity practices.
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Benavides B, Casal J, Diéguez J, Yus E, Moya SJ, Allepuz A. Quantitative risk assessment of introduction of BVDV and BoHV-1 through indirect contacts based on implemented biosecurity measures in dairy farms of Spain. Prev Vet Med 2021; 188:105263. [PMID: 33453562 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2021.105263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
A stochastic quantitative risk assessment model was developed to estimate the annual probability of introduction of bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) and bovine herpesvirus 1 (BoHV-1) on 127 dairy farms through indirect contacts. Vehicles transporting calves, cattle to slaughterhouse, dead animals, and mixture of feed, as well as visits by veterinarians and hoof trimmers, farm workers and contacts with neighbors were considered in the model. Data from biosecurity questionnaires of each farm, scientific literature and expert opinion from field veterinarians, animal vehicle drivers, hoof trimmers and personnel from rendering transport companies were used to estimate values for input parameters. Results showed that the annual probability of introducing BVDV or BoHV-1 through indirect contacts was very heterogeneous. The overall distribution of median values for each farm ranged from 0.5 to 14.6% and from 1.0 to 24.9% for BVDV and BoHV-1, respectively. The model identified that providing protective clothing and boots to visits, not allowing the animal vehicle driver to come into contact with animals present on the farm and ensuring that calf vehicles arrived empty, were the measures with the highest impact on the probability of infection for most farms. This model could be a useful tool to show the impact of the measures to farmers and veterinarians, thus increasing their awareness on biosecurity. In addition, it could support decision making on which measures should be prioritized in dairy cattle herds to reduce the probability of introduction of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Benavides
- Department de Sanitat i Anatomia Animals, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona, Spain; Department of Animal Health, Universidad de Nariño, Pasto, Colombia
| | - J Casal
- Department de Sanitat i Anatomia Animals, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona, Spain; Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA), Institut de Recerca i Tecnologia Agroalimentàries (IRTA), Spain
| | - J Diéguez
- Department of Anatomy and Animal Production, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela (USC), Lugo, Spain
| | - E Yus
- Department of Animal Pathology, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela (USC), Lugo, Spain
| | - S J Moya
- Department de Sanitat i Anatomia Animals, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Allepuz
- Department de Sanitat i Anatomia Animals, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona, Spain; Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA), Institut de Recerca i Tecnologia Agroalimentàries (IRTA), Spain.
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Nyabinwa P, Kashongwe OB, Hirwa CD, Bebe BO. Perception of farmers about endometritis prevention and control measures for zero-grazed dairy cows on smallholder farms in Rwanda. BMC Vet Res 2020; 16:175. [PMID: 32503530 PMCID: PMC7275537 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-020-02368-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometritis is a prevalent uterine disease in postpartum cows. The disease reduces fertility performance and milk yield, and subsequently, productivity and profitability of dairy farms. The reduction in performance is associated with considerable economic losses on dairy farms. Smallholder farmers are likely to incur considerable economic losses from the disease where they lack knowledge of effective prevention and control measures for the disease. This study used farmer's perspectives to determine the effectiveness of different management interventions (MIs) for endometritis prevention and control on smallholder farms in Rwanda practicing dairy zero-grazing. The best-worst scaling (BWS) choice method was applied that relied on past 1 year recall data obtained from 154 farmers. These farmers were identified through snowball sampling in a cross-sectional study. RESULTS Of the 20 MIs evaluated, 12 scored highly for effectiveness. The top four most effective are: avoiding sharing equipment with neighbouring farms (45.5%), consulting animal health service provider about disease treatment (31.8%), keeping cows in a clean and dry shed (26.7%), and selecting sires based on calving ease (26.6%). The MIs considered least effective were: maintaining clean transition cow housing (35.1%), removal of fetal membrane immediately after passing (33.1%), disinfecting the equipment used in calving assistance before and after use (32.5%), and selecting sires with low percent stillbirths (29.2%). CONCLUSION This study has demonstrated the application of BWS object case method in understanding the MIs that farmers consider are most effective in the prevention and control of endometritis disease in the dairy herds. The MIs are on-farm biosecurity and hygiene, seeking veterinary services for disease treatment and selecting sires for ease of calving. These MIs should be considered for prioritization in extension services and research to continuously improve and enhance their practical application on smallholder dairy farms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Nyabinwa
- Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board, P.O; Box 5016, Kigali, Rwanda.
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Egerton University, P.O; Box 536, Egerton, Kenya.
| | - Olivier Basole Kashongwe
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Egerton University, P.O; Box 536, Egerton, Kenya
| | - Claire d'Andre Hirwa
- Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board, P.O; Box 5016, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Bockline Omedo Bebe
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Egerton University, P.O; Box 536, Egerton, Kenya
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