animal housing systems

Question 1

reasons for housing animals

Answer 1

protection from adverse weather
protection from predators
protection of land
ease of management
control over feeding/water/temp

Question 2

what are the main features of housing systems that can lead to poor health and welfare?

Answer 2

building structure and design
ventilation, temp, humidity
flooring, bedding
space
feeding/watering
health and safety
legal requirements

Question 3

why is good ventilation important?

Answer 3

replenish oxygen
prevent build up of excreted gases
prevent accumulation of moisture and dust particles
remove pathogens

Question 4

how does the stack effect work

Answer 4

animals within building warm the air,
the air rises,
carries stale air out through slots in the roof,
air cools,
fresh air drawn from sides of building
eg; yorkshire boarding

Question 5

ways to assess ventilation

Answer 5

smoke test/ cob webs
smell- ammonia/ dusty/damp
observe animals - huddling, coughing, increased respiratory rate
min/max thermometers
relative humidity monitor

Question 6

what is the role of the vet with respect to housing and building design?

Answer 6

need to understand how different aspects of building design are risk factors for disease and poor welfare
be able to critically appraise building design
know when to seek more specialist advice and work in a team with building experts.