O Papel da Capacitação da Mão de Obra no Bem-Estar de Bezerros Leiteiros.

Abstract

The objective of this study is to assess how workforce training influences the welfare of dairy calves, highlighting the importance of trained professionals for the proper implementation of daily management practices. An anonymous survey was conducted with rural producers involved in the dairy sector, addressing training adoption, farm size, average annual production, management practices employed, and observed improvements related to calf welfare. The results were analyzed descriptively and through correlation, using Kendall's coefficient to examine the relationships between farm size, adoption of technical training, and average production. The analysis indicated weak and statistically non-significant correlations, with the correlation between technical training and average production being very low (τ = 0.05) and between technical training and farm size being weak (τ = 0.22). Most of the properties produce less than 6,000 liters of milk per day, with a predominance of respondents located in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul. A growing demand for updates on calf management and welfare was observed, but the implementation of practices occurs partially due to a lack of qualified labor and financial resources. Most respondents reported significant improvements in calf conditions when minimum practices for improving heifer management and welfare are adopted. It is concluded that workforce training is essential for the well-being of calves, but it is still not widely disseminated. The lack of continuous training limits the adoption of good practices, especially in environmental enrichment. However, financial factors, although mentioned, may not be a real barrier, given that there are practices that do not require significant investment. It is recommended to expand the availability of training programs adapted to the reality and needs of farms to improve management, well-being, and productivity in the dairy sector.