Animal husbandry plays an increasingly important role throughout the world in the fulfillment of the primary need of mankind: food. The growing demand for food leads to an intensification of the production of livestock and because of the varying climatic conditions in many parts of the world, livestock has to be housed in suitable accommodation during certain times of the year.This book brings together a descriptive as well as a scientific study of all aspects of the housing of all animals; construction of and building materials to be used for the houses and facilities; work organisation and labour requirements in different types of animal houses; the influence of the animal housing types on animal behaviour, animal health and the environment and the cost of building the accommodation.This English-language edition is a new text of the last edition of the book, which was written in Dutch, in 1983. A great deal of recent information of international dimension concerning animal husbandry, construction and equipment of animal houses has been included in this edition. The book has also been updated with the latest scientific and technological findings on this subject published in 1983 and 1984.Agricultural engineers, veterinary surgeons, architects, students, progressive farmers and anyone interested in the housing of animals should find much to interest them in this book.

Species specifics; Livestock management; General management; Structure; How to design it; In closing.

With dozens of adaptable plans for sheds, coops, hutches, multipurpose barns, windbreaks, and shade structures, this guide covers everything you need to know to build safe and sturdy housing for your animals. Stressing the importance of evaluating your goals, planning ahead, and budgeting accordingly, Carol Ekarius helps you determine the best structure for your particular situation and offers expert advice on tools and construction techniques. Build a functional and comfortable house for your animals that they’ll be proud to call home.

Livestock housing is a major determinant of animal health, welfare and productivity. This book presents the important principles and processes by which housing influences these outcomes, and shows how an understanding of these can be translated into specifications for housing designs. The emphasis is on the building as a means to an environmental end, focusing on the biological responses and welfare needs of animals in the context of commercial and economic considerations. The book provides a thorough literature review as well as practical guidance and is aimed at academics and professionals in animal production, veterinary science and agricultural engineering.

Appropriate housing that promotes excellent health and high welfare for different livestock species is an essential aspect of sustainable animal production. The appropriate design of livestock buildings is a fast changing and ever improving professional endeavour. This book is set out to review the 'current best practice management' in relation to all key design elements of livestock buildings. It is important to manage these buildings correctly to generate environmental conditions that will enhance the health and welfare of livestock, the health of farm workers and people living near farming operations. 'Livestock housing' is written for all those who are involved in managing the health and welfare conditions of housed livestock on commercial farms, including farm workers, animal scientists, veterinarians, agricultural engineers and of course students. Contributions have been solicited from highly respected specialists from around the world. All key areas of housing management are reviewed, including feeding, watering, ventilation and waste management systems. Furthermore, issues such as the control of emissions, role of bedding, maintenance of hygiene, the management of thermal and aerial environment as well as the use of modern technological tools in the service of livestock management are discussed. This book provides a unique forum for leading international experts to convey up-to-date information to professionals involved in modern animal production.