Prevalence of severe welfare problems in horses that arrive at slaughter plants.

摘要

The prevalence of severe welfare problems was studied in 1008 horses at 2 abattoirs in Texas, USA. 930 horses (92%) arrived in good condition, and 78 horses (7.7%) had a condition that was rated a serious welfare problem. 30 horses (3%) had a body condition score of 1 or 2, 12 (1.0%) had foot and limb problems (other than fractures), 4 (0.4%) had fractured limbs, 18 (2.0%) had deep cuts, lacerations or injuries from bites, 8 (0.8%) were non-ambulatory or dead on arrival, 2 (0.2%) had deformities, 3(0.3%) had extensive purulent lesions and 1 (0.1%) had a behavioural problem. Characteristic patterns of 51% of carcass bruises indicated that they were caused by bites or kicks. Fighting was the major cause of injuries that occurred during transport and marketing. Fifteen (1.5%) horses were unfit for travel. Abuse or neglect by owners was the cause of 77% of the severe welfare problems observed.