Assessment of animal welfare in medium-sized dairy cattle farms in the province of Burdur

This study was conducted to assess the level of animal welfare in medium-sized dairy cattle farms in Burdur province. A total of 91 farms were selected as samples, and variables such as shelter structure, nutrition, health practices, hygiene, behavioural indicators, and welfare practices were evaluated using a survey method. According to the findings, the majority of farms (72.92%) use a free-stall housing system, and all barns are constructed using a truss system and steel beams. The majority of farms do not have a calving pen (94.87%) and a sick animal pen (97.37%). Additionally, the use of paddocks is low (12.82%). In terms of animal welfare practices, regular feeding, water supply, and health record keeping are commonly practised,but the use of parasite control, hoof care, and behavioural monitoring systems is low. In terms of calf welfare, colostrum applications are largely carried out at the right time, but the special care program for calves is inadequate. All these findings indicate that while the welfare level is sufficient in certain aspects, structural deficiencies and management practices negatively affect welfare. As a result, structural improvements, training, and awareness-raising initiatives aimed at enhancing animal welfare are recommended for medium-sized dairy cattle farms in Burdur province.