WELFARE IN DANISH DAIRY HERDS .2. HOUSING SYSTEMS AND CRAZING PROCEDURES IN 1983 AND 1994

This paper presents the second part of a questionnaire survey carried out in 2148 Danish dairy herds during 1994, as well as results from a similar survey carried out in 1983. The welfare status and trends duri ng the 11 year period are discussed with respect to cattle housing sys tems and grazing procedures. Generally speaking, the results show that Danish dairy farmers in 1994 followed the common recommendations, i.e . 1) there are partitions between stalls in almost all tie stall house s, 2) feeding cubicles are seldomly seen in cubicle houses, 3) bedding is provided for most cows, 4) saw dust as bedding for cows is not com monly used and 5) the majority of cows and heifers are pastured during sum mer. However, adjustments in the following areas would be appropr iate: 1) tie systems which restrict the cow's natural rising and lying should be phased out, and 2) loose housed heifers in boxes should hav e access to a bedded resting area.