Sanitary, hygienic, and welfare aspects of keeping Pomeranian Spitz in a breeding private kennel

Abstract

The market situation regarding the breeding of decorative dogs of the Pomeranian breed and providing consumers with appropriate services in this field of activity dictate the rules and create the conditions of competition between market participants, which encourages improvement, development, and constant monitoring of it in terms of novelties and needs that provide opportunities for comfortable care and decent maintenance of pupils. The work aimed to analyze the impact of sanitary and hygienic factors and ensuring healthy housing conditions on the functional state of the body and mental health of Pomeranian Spitz dogs in the conditions of the private breeding kennel Fluffy Luxury Pom in the suburbs of Lviv. To fulfill this task, a study of the hygienic parameters of the air environment, compliance with the hygiene of feeding and drinking of the wards, peculiarities of the care of the wool coat, and compliance with the concept of animal welfare – the principle of “Five Freedoms” was carried out. It has been established that the technological solutions for keeping Pomeranian Spitz dogs in the conditions of this kennel are characterized by compliance with hygienic requirements for the air environment at the proper level and meeting sanitary standards. Thus, the air temperature was 17 °C, and its movement speed was 0.15 m/s. In the absence of the smell of ammonia, the illuminance ratio corresponded to 1:2. The animals are fed with industrial complete ration super premium 1st Choice feed, the use of which, according to recommendations, helps dogs strengthen the immune system, slow down the aging process, maintain health and activity. This type of food requires constant free access of dogs to clean water, and the containers are kept clean by changing the filling every day. Regarding the quality characteristics of the water, it was established that it fully meets the standard. Dogs of this breed are characterized by a beautiful, lush coat requiring special care. Evaluating the level of compliance with individual hygienic procedures, it was established that they are carried out at a high level, as evidenced by the appearance of the animals. According to the statements of John Webster, the welfare of animals is defined by advocating the main three conditions - to live a natural life, to be healthy, and to be happy. The dogs in this kennel are provided with a good life; the behavioral reactions of the wards themselves confirm this. During the research, the dogs behaved calmly, naturally, and playfully, which indicates the socialization of dogs; the purpose is to make the pet feel comfortable and calm in various life situations without causing trouble to its owner and his surroundings.