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Farmers' preferences for automatic lameness-detection systems in dairy cattle
T Van De Gucht1, W Saeys2, A Van Nuffel3
1Technology and Food Sciences Unit, Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research (ILVO), Burgemeester van Gansberghelaan 115, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium; Mechatronics, Biostatistics and Sensors, Department of Biosystems, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Kasteelpark Arenberg 30 Box 2456, 3001 Leuven, Belgium.
Dairy farmers prefer cow-attached sensors for automated lameness detection, with system cost and performance being key factors. Educating farmers on lameness impacts enhances adoption of these systems.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Agricultural Engineering
- Veterinary Medicine
Background:
- Lameness is a significant health issue in dairy herds, driving demand for automated detection systems.
- Current automated lameness detection systems are largely in development, necessitating end-user input for market readiness.
- Understanding farmer preferences for system characteristics is crucial for successful implementation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate dairy farmers' preferences for characteristics of automated lameness detection systems.
- To assess the influence of sociodemographic and farm characteristics on these preferences.
- To determine if farmer preferences change after receiving information on the consequences of lameness.
Main Methods:
- A discrete choice experiment was conducted using an online survey with 135 dairy farmers.
- Three system types (cow-attached, walkover, camera) were evaluated based on missed lame cows, false alarms, cost, and leg indication.
- Farmers completed two blocks of choice sets, with information on lameness consequences provided between blocks.
Main Results:
- Farmer preferences were significantly influenced by system cost and performance metrics.
- Importance of lameness, calving-to-insemination interval, and use of estrus detection systems impacted preference for automated systems.
- A cow-attached sensor was the most preferred system type, followed by walkover and camera systems.
Conclusions:
- Dairy farmers' adoption of automated lameness detection is influenced by system attributes and farm management practices.
- Initial preference for visual detection shifted towards automated systems after farmers understood lameness's economic impact.
- Sensitizing farmers to the profitability effects of lameness is vital for promoting automated detection system uptake.
