Animal welfare is attracting increasing interest worldwide, but particularly from those in developed countries, who now have the knowledge and resources to be able to offer the best management systems for their farm animals, as well as potentially being able to offer plentiful resources for companion, zoo and laboratory animals. The increased attention given to farm animal welfare in the West derives largely from the fact that the relentless pursuit of financial reward and efficiency has led to the development of intensive animal production systems, that challenge the conscience of many consumers in those countries. In developing countries human survival is still a daily uncertainty, so that provision for animal welfare has to be balanced against human welfare. Welfare is usually provided for only if it supports the output of the animal, be it food, work, clothing, sport or companionship. In reality, there are resources for all if they are properly husbanded in both developing and developed countries. The inequitable division of the world s riches creates physical and psychological poverty for humans and animals alike in all sectors of the world. Livestock are the world s biggest land user (FAO, 2002) and the population is increasing rapidly to meet the need of an expanding human population. Populations of farm animals managed by humans are therefore increasing worldwide, and there is the tendency to allocate fewer resources to each animal. Increased attention to welfare issues is just as evident for companion, laboratory, wild and zoo animals."

From the large-rumped Karakul sheep to the wrinkled Fengjing pig, North America is home to an extraordinary array of livestock breeds. Increasingly, a rare breed renaissance celebrates heritage breeds for their contribution to biodiversity, adaptation to specific environments, curious appearance, or ability to produce singular meat, milk, or fibre. At the same time, people continue to need up-to-date information about the major domestic breeds. Finally, a single resource offers detailed information about both common and heritage breeds. Finally, a single resource offers detailed information about both common and heritage breeds: "Storey's Illustrated Breed Guide to Sheep, Goats, Cattle, and Pigs" by Carol Ekarius.This attractive, at-a-glance reference, written by one of America's foremost livestock experts, covers 194 of the most significant breeds of cattle, goats, sheep, and swine - from the common Guernsey cow to the near-extinct Guinea hog. For each breed, Ekarius provides full-colour photographs, a brief history, and details about the breed's unique qualities and quirks. Readers will enjoy reading about major breeds such as the iconic Holstein cow, and Icelandic sheep, as well as hundreds of lesser-known varieties, like the long-legged, ginger-coloured Tamworth pig; the lilac-spotted Jacob Sheep; the deer like San Clemente goat; and the powerful, droopy-eared Guzerat cow.Comprehensive, colourful, and captivating, this definitive, in-depth guide is informative enough to aid farmers in breed selection, but beautiful enough for fanciers to browse as a coffee-table book. "Storey's Illustrated Breed Guide to Sheep, Goats, Cattle, and Pigs" will appeal to anyone interested in North American livestock - small-scale farmers, conservationists, agricultural historians, gourmets, biodiversity champions, animal lovers, and anyone dreaming about crafting fibres from sheep and goats. This indispensable reference showcases North American livestock breeds for what they truly are: fascinating, stunning, and endlessly varied.

The Sunday Times bestseller following the inspiring story of life as a shepherdess, by the star of Channel 5's Our Yorkshire Farm. Amanda Owen has been seen by millions on ITV's The Dales and Channel 5's Our Yorkshire Farm, living a life that has almost gone in today's modern world, a life ruled by the seasons and her animals. She is a farmer's wife and shepherdess, living alongside her husband Clive and seven children at Ravenseat, a 2000 acre sheep hill farm at the head of Swaledale in North Yorkshire. It's a challenging life but one she loves. In The Yorkshire Shepherdess she describes how the rebellious girl from Huddersfield, who always wanted to be a shepherdess, achieved her dreams. Full of amusing anecdotes and unforgettable characters, the book takes us from fitting in with the locals to fitting in motherhood, from the demands of the livestock to the demands of raising a large family in such a rural backwater. Amanda also evokes the peace of winter, when they can be cut off by snow without electricity or running water, the happiness of spring and the lambing season, and the backbreaking tasks of summertime - haymaking and sheepshearing - inspiring us all to look at the countryside and those who work there with new appreciation. Read more inspiring tales of life as a shepherdess with A Year in the Life of the Yorkshire Shepherdess and Adventures Of The Yorkshire Shepherdess.

Chickens are by far the world's most widely farmed animal, kept for both meat and egg production. They are at the centre of many debates regarding housing and production systems, causing significant interest in what lies behind chicken behaviour. This accessible book covers sensory biology, behavioural development, preferences and aversions, social behaviour, learning and cognition, behavioural issues in different systems and solutions for behavioural problems. Authored by an authority on chicken ethology, it brings together the fields of animal behaviour, neuroscience, psychology and epidemiology to provide a comprehensive understanding of chicken behaviour and help improve the lives of farmed chickens around the world.

This title offers everything you ever wanted to know about the biology, rearing and breeding of queen bees. Divided into three major chapters with many sub-sections, "Queen Bee" is a definitive guide to the biology and breeding of queen bees. It includes: Chapter One - Queen Bee Biology, Introduction, Castes, Anatomy & Lifecycle, Reproduction, Castes, Development, Egg Laying, Pheromones, and Diseases; Chapter Two - Queen Bee Rearing Equipment, Grafting & non-Grafting, Capture & Transport, Swarming & Nucleus Hives, and Nutrition; and, Chapter Three - Queen Bee Breeding, Genetics & Reprduction, Stock Selection & Improvement, Breeding Programmes, Instrumental Insemination, and Glossary.

From a legendary horseman the definitive guide to training horse and rider Charles Wilhelm earned acclaim for his remarkable horse--training talent. What made him a bona fide celebrity was his equally uncanny gift for coaching people novice and expert, trainer and weekend rider alike. Presenting readers with the practical advice he offers thousands each year in demonstrations and clinics nationwide, he reveals basic principles suitable for all equestrian sports, and provides over 15 step--by--step exercises, with nearly 200 photos and illustrations that show how to put them into practice and get results. Charles Wilhelm (Castro Valley, CA) is one of the top six general horse trainers in the country a man who is as good at training people as he is at training horses. He's a featured trainer at all major horse expositions, including Equine Affaire, Ride with the Stars, WesternStates Horse Expo, Ride the West, the Horse World Expos, Equine Experience, Eqwest, Equitana, and UC Davis's annual Horse Day symposium. Charles also holds clinics and demonstrations at his own facility in Castro Valley and throughout California.;He writes monthly columns for four major equestrian publications Ride!, Riding, Northwest Rider, and the U.S. Horse Market and appeared in a CBS Evening Magazine special segment on his training program and its impact on novice and beginning horse owners. Wilhelm is renowned for his success in working with "problem" horses. His foundation training approach for horse and rider is successful in resolving issues that may range from lead changes, gaiting, or collection, through more severe problems such as bucking and bolting. But whether training a top show horse or the family trail horse, time spent with Charles Wilhelm consistently results in a dramatically improved animal. Allison Houston (San Francisco, CA) rode quarter horses for many years as a youth, and then resumed horse ownership in her mid--thirties after a 20--year hiatus. Inspired by experiencing Wilhelm's training success firsthand for over three years, she's teamed up with him to share his Foundation Training program with a wider audience.

A Plain-language Medical Guide for Horse Owners and Trainers
Painful and potentially debilitating tendon and ligament injuries are among the most common and serious physiological problems facing performance horses. The severity ranges from minor injuries to those that end careers or even the horse's life. However, with proper treatment, these injuries can be overcome, and permanent damage minimized.
Writing in concise, accessible language, equine veterinarian Linda Schultz provides the most up-to-date information on identifying, treating, and managing tendon and ligament injuries. You'll review basic anatomy, understand how and why these injuries occur, and discover the effects of horseshoeing on tendons and ligaments. You'll see exactly what you should (and shouldn't) do during the critical healing process-plus, you'll learn to communicate effectively with your veterinarian to ensure your horse is soon back on his feet and doing his job.
* Features the latest treatment options and alternative therapies
* Includes a sample controlled exercise schedule and guidelines for recuperation times
* Explains treatment of acute injuries and directed therapy, as well as the current surgical techniques
* Discusses the benefits and drawbacks of support wraps, boots, and bandages

From crayons to cough drops, cookies to candles, Beehive Alchemy offers a comprehensive introduction to incorporating the miracle of bees into everyday life. Beehive Alchemy is a continuation of Petra Ahnert's best-selling Beeswax Alchemy. With this new book, beekeepers (and bee lovers) will learn about the benefits and attributes of beeswax, honey, propolis, and more alongside a full range of projects and techniques to process and harness the amazing gifts of bees. Inside, you'll find instructions to make Ahnert's award-winning hand-dipped birthday candles, the classic French dessert canele bordelais, and much more, including: Alchemy for the Body Liquid soap with honey Beard balm Olive and honey lotion Alchemy of Light Taper candles Tea lights Pillars Alchemy for the Home Furniture polish Waxed cotton food wraps Woodcutter incense Alchemy in the Studio Beeswax crayons Encaustic Batik Alchemy in the Kitchen Cookies and candies Beverages Fermentations Whether you keep bees or just love them, Beehive Alchemy will become your go-to comprehensive guide for hive-to-home creations.

With nearly every supermarket now featuring an "organic" section, the demand for organically grown meat and dairy products has risen rapidly in recent years. Small farmers have taken note, and many more beginners are considering cattle as a viable farm commodity. Getting Started with Beef & Dairy Cattle is the essential handbook for this growing audience.
Heather Smith Thomas, a lifelong cattle rancher and author of several previous books for more experienced farmers, offers a succinct layperson's guide to the basics of raising a small herd of cattle, whether for meat or dairy products. She outlines organic and natural farming methods and covers all the information needed to get started and be successful.
Getting Started with Beef & Dairy Cattle encourages new and beginning farmers to start small, and start right. Thomas explains as simply as possible the basics of selecting and raising a calf, along with feeding, shelter, and care guidelines. She also covers breeding and calving, as well as tips for managing a herd throughout the seasons. There's basic health care information for preventing disease and addressing common ailments. For those raising beef cattle, Thomas offers guidelines for butchering; for those raising dairy cattle, there are step-by-step guidelines on milking.
With a whole new generation returning to the farm who don't have a family history of farming, Getting Started with Beef & Dairy Cattleis a much-needed resource. Heather Smith Thomas has devoted her life to passing on the knowledge, understanding, and attitude necessary to become a successful farmer.

Goat meat is a valuable source of cheap protein, making goats the ideal sustainable meat for low-income populations. Other benefits of goat meat, such as its low fat content and green credentials, are also becoming more recognized around the world, thought the goat meat industry is still surpassed by that cattle, sheep and pigs.Written by some of the world's leading goat meat scientists, and drawing from the most recent publications in the field, this book comprehensively covers the most important areas of goat meat production. Chapters discuss the role of genetics, breeding, reproduction, and nutrition in producing good quality, profitable goat meat. The role of genetics, breeding, reproduction and nutrition in producing good quality, profitable goat meat are all discussed in detail. The mineral, amino acid and fatty acid composition of goat meat is also addressed, along with a discussion of its nutritive value, aimed at highlighting its health benefits over other red meats. Essential reading for students and researchers in animal science and production, this book is also a useful resource for goat meat producers and breeders.

In the last two decades, there has been an increased awareness of the traditions and issues that link aboriginal people across the circumpolar North. One of the key aspects of the lives of circumpolar peoples, be they in Scandinavia, Alaska, Russia, or Canada, is their relationship to the wild animals that support them. Although divided for most of the 20th Century by various national trading blocks, and the Cold War, aboriginal people in each region share common stories about the various capitalist and socialist states that claimed control over their lands and animals. Now, aboriginal peoples throughout the region are reclaiming their rights. This volume is the first to give a well-rounded portrait of wildlife management, aboriginal rights, and politics in the circumpolar north. The book reveals unexpected continuities between socialist and capitalist ecological styles, as well as addressing the problems facing a new era of cultural exchanges between aboriginal peoples in each region.

The second edition of Food Safety and Quality Assurance is a basic reference for veterinarians, extension specialists, and others who help food-animal producers throughout the food chain to provide a safe product to consumers. The assurance of safety and quality must start with the producer. Professionals providing specialized expertise to the producer must be familiar with modern production practices in order to identify activities that may have an adverse effect on safety and quality; must be knowledgeable about microbial and nonmicrobial agents that reduce the marketability of the product and produce disease in the consumer; and must be familiar with modern processing techniques for foods of animal origin to understand the scientific basis for the inspection procedures required by regulatory agencies. This greatly expanded edition provides this information and includes a chapter analyzing the social and political context for the development of food safety and quality assurance inspection of foods of animal origin. Also new to this edition is its examination of egg production, in addition to red meat, poultry, milk, and fish, as well as its coverage of risk assessment and safe food handling at home. The second edition goes beyond North America in scope. As economic trade barriers fall and new trading groups are forged by governments, it is becoming increasingly important to understand food issues, both regulatory and biological, from a global perspective.

The Sheep and Goat Handbook includes presentations made at the International Stockrnen 's School, January 2-6, 1983. The faculty members of the School who authored this third volume of the Handbook, along with books on Beef Cattle, Dairy Cattle, and Horses, are scholars, stockrnen, and agribusiness leaders with national and international reputations. The papers are a mixture of tried and true technology and practices with new concepts from the latest research results of experiments in all parts of the world. Relevant information and concepts from many related disciplines are included.

This is our seventh set of Happy, Healthy Pet titles. These latest books will bring our series up to fifty-five titles and, like the others, they are books pet owners can turn to for the essential information they need to raise a healthy, happy pet. All books contain information on: c feeding c grooming c housing c health care c what to expect from the pet c basic training As our series expands and focuses on different kinds of pets, the emphasis remains on making the pet a companion. Owners of more unusual pets will particularly appreciate the expert advice in these books because professional care for exotic animals can be hard to come by. As always, the instruction on the books is from experts people who know their pets intimately but always remember what it was like to have one the first time. Happy, Healthy Pet guides are rich with professional quality color photos and are designed to be enjoyable and easy to learn from. Expert herper and author Steve Grenard details care information for a variety of lizards commonly kept as pets, including geckos, anoles, monitors and more.

The Sheep and Goat Handbook includes presentations made at the International Stockmen's School, January 8-13, 1984.The faculty members of the School who authored this fourth volume of the Handbook, along with books on beef cattle, dairy cattle, and horses, are scholars, stockmen, and agribusiness leaders with national and international reputations. The papers are a mixture of technology and practice that present new concepts from the latest research results of experiments in all parts of the world. Relevant information and concepts from many related disciplines are included.

The most complete text and reference on contemporary beef cattle production available. New edition merges current production technology with management and flexible marketing. Text organization reflects the industry: cow-calf (including purebred herds), stocker or growing phase, and the feedlot or finishing phase. Explains scientific basis of beef production. Describes proven management techniques for efficient production.

In the spring of 1996, when numerous reports of bovine spongioform encephalopathy, popularly known as "mad cow disease," coincided with an outbreak of a similar neuropathological disease in humans, a panic spread across Britain, Europe, and subsequently to the United States. Described as "the biggest crisis the European Union ever had," the mad cow controversy raised important issues about the ways in which risks to the public heath are assessed, disseminated, and controlled. Was the "epidemic" merely a failure of management, the lessons of which could be incorporated into a new strategy for dealing with public anxiety? Was it an isolated case of poor decision-making in a highly volatile economic sector, or was it the kind of nightmare that could face any government responsible for public safety? And what role did the media play in exacerbating an already spiraling crisis?

Divided into four major sections-"Scientific/Historical Perspectives"; "Politics as Health"; "Understanding the Crisis"; and "Lessons and Possibilities" - Mad Cow Crisis assembles the perspectives of a range of experts on this strange and frightening phenomenon, with a view to helping us comprehend how and why such crises occur. Both a careful consideration of how we interpret risk and uncertainty and a step-by-step guide to managing public fear, this important book will interest anyone concerned with public health, communication, science, economics, and medicine.

As beef and cattle production progressed in nineteenth-century America, the cow emerged as the nation's representative food animal and earned a culturally prominent role in the literature of the day. In Cattle Country Kathryn Cornell Dolan examines the role cattle played in narratives throughout the century to show how the struggles within U.S. food culture mapped onto society's broader struggles with colonization, environmentalism, U.S. identity, ethnicity, and industrialization. Dolan examines diverse texts from Native American, African American, Mexican American, and white authors that showcase the zeitgeist of anxiety surrounding U.S. identity as cattle gradually became an industrialized food source, altering the country's culture while exacting a high cost to humans, animals, and the land. From Henry David Thoreau's descriptions of indigenous cuisines as a challenge to the rising monoculture, to Washington Irving's travel narratives that foreshadow cattle replacing American bison in the West, to Maria Amparo Ruiz de Burton's use of cattle to connect race and imperialism in her work, authors' preoccupations with cattle underscored their concern for resource depletion, habitat destruction, and the wasteful overproduction of a single breed of livestock. Cattle Country offers a window into the ways authors worked to negotiate the consequences of the development of this food culture and, by excavating the history of U.S. settler colonialism through the figure of cattle, sheds new ecocritical light on nineteenth-century literature.

This is the first volume in a series of course books for career students and exam candidates preparing for the Stage 1 exam of the British Horse Society. It includes an examination planner, in-text self-assessment questions, BHS syllabus checklist points throughout the text, and examination tips from BHS examiners including common mistakes made. This book deals with the stable management syllabus and the ridden elements of the test.

You might have heard that bees are in trouble -- but in fact, the trouble is coming our way too and bees are just showing it first. The looming environmental crisis means that, as a result of modern agricultural practices and pesticide,s we may well fail to prevent honeybee collapse. Honeybees are vital to the health of our planet, and this book is designed to equip and encourage small-scale backyard beekeepers -- who may end up having the only strong, healthy honeybees left. An expert beekeeper, Jack Bresette-Mills calls his approach 'sensitive beekeeping'. He promotes beekeeping without fear, beekeeping for the sake of the bee rather than for profit, and learning to answer your own questions about beekeeping. It's an approach that takes time, practice and patience to develop, and requires physical, mental and spiritual transformation. In the long run though, it results in healthier, sustainable hives and a happier beekeeper.

Reproductive Technologies in Animals provides the most updated and comprehensive knowledge on the various aspects and applications of reproductive technologies in production animals as well as companion, wild, exotic, and laboratory animals and birds. The text synthesizes historical information and recent discoveries, while dealing with economical and geographical issues related to the implementation of the same technologies. It also presents the effects of reproductive technology implementation on animal welfare and the possible threat of pathogen transmission. Reproductive Technologies in Animals is an important resource for academics, researchers, professionals in public and private animal business, and students at the undergraduate and graduate levels, as it gives a full and detailed first-hand analysis of all species subjected to the use of reproductive technologies.