On-farm welfare conditions of dairy donkeys: A case study in Northern Serbia

Abstract

The use of donkey milk in human nutrition and the cosmetic industry has led to increased interest in donkey breeding and, consequentially, the intensification of dairy donkey farms, particularly in Europe. Despite the expanding number of farms and greater milk production, there is still no consensus on the management and welfare conditions of donkeys. Therefore, this study aimed to assess and compare the welfare, health and housing conditions of dairy donkeys on five farms in Northern Serbia. The welfare of dairy donkeys on the five farms (A, B, C, D and E) was assessed using the Animal Welfare Indicator (AWIN) protocol for donkeys, represented by four principles (Good Feeding, Good Housing, Good Health and Appropriate Behaviour). Body condition scores were the highest on farms C and D. In addition, none of the examined dairy donkeys on farm D showed any signs of the examined health indicators (except for nasal discharge and hoof neglect) or inappropriate behaviour. Furthermore, the lowest percentage of nasal discharge and hoof neglect was recorded in dairy donkeys on farm D. In contrast, the highest frequency of alopecia, skin lesions, unhealthy hair coat, faecal soiling and hoof neglect was recorded in dairy donkeys on farm A. In conclusion, welfare conditions on farm A were rated as the most unacceptable, while the welfare conditions on farm D were rated as the most acceptable.