Ecosistemas y Recursos Agropecuarios (Jun 2020)

Management and welfare of working equids in the Guerrero state

  • Eduardo Ezequiel Robledo Reyes,
  • Mariano Hernandez Gil,
  • Saúl Rojas Hernández,
  • Luis Miguel Camacho Diaz,
  • Moises Cipriano Salazar,
  • Abel Villa Mancera,
  • Jaime Olivares Pérez

DOI
https://doi.org/10.19136/era.a7n2.2333
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 7, no. 2

Abstract

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The management of farm work equids in Guerrero, Mexico was described and related to animal welfare. Sixty-four equids owners were randomly surveyed. Horses were used more than donkeys and mules. The 89% of owners worked the animals before 5 years of age. Only 5% provide helmet management. The 83% of breeders provide living space >4 m2 . In 53% of the units animals socialize. The 45% of breeders feed on forage and grain. The 59% of breeders give access to water 2-4 portions / day and 41% ad libitum. Deworming is partial (44%) and not vaccine is applied. The common diseases are skin lesions (84%), digestive system disorders (77%), respiratory (59%) and locomotor (44%). In conclusion, the management of equids compromises their well-being in different ways, reducing their quality of life.