The role of extensionists in Santa Catarina, Brazil, in the adoption and rejection of providing pain relief to calves for dehorning.

摘要: The majority of dairy calves around the world are dehorned with methods that cause them pain and distress. In some production systems, extensionists may influence dehorning practices used on farm through their advisory knowledge-transfer role. aims this study were to investigate Brazilian extensionists' knowledge, beliefs, behavior regarding calves. As little research has addressed question, a qualitative, theory-building approach was theory planned as conceptual framework guide data collection analysis. In-depth, semi-structured interviews undertaken 15 working in Santa Catarina, Brazil, examine role adoption rejection pain-mitigation strategies at dehorning. interview transcripts free coded, identifying 9 major themes within across interviews. Transcribed responses then coded constructs behavior. emerged analysis combined develop model attitudes, toward recommending protocols for aimed minimizing pain. interviewed believed it necessary dehorn all replacement heifers. Despite being aware minimize during after dehorning, interviewees recommended or hot cautery method, no control. This method described most effective, cheapest, safest, fastest (12) rejected caustic paste citing negative past experiences unfamiliarity belief is less practical riskier farmers. More than half did not recognize painful expressed associated procedure justify use Although small number (4) recognized potential sources social pressure change, including pain-inflicting by farmers, general public, animal-protection societies, they identify these factors reason change existing practices. Interviewees stress, such very young calves, using control, would increase labor costs Extensionists' attitudes appear be embedded production-focused political economic agriculture environment lack education, research, legislation animal welfare.