This project aims to optimize the stunning conditions for native broilers in Taiwan, focusing on enhancing animal welfare while meeting economic demands. Despite the significant consumption of native broilers, which have a market weight ranging from 2.5-3.5 kg compared to commercial broilers' 1.8-2.0 kg, there has been a lack of effective stunning conditions tailored for them since the enforcement of humane slaughter in 2013. Utilizing electroencephalography (EEG) and behavioral observations to assess consciousness, alongside blood biochemistry and carcass quality evaluations for welfare and stunning effectiveness. This study introduces an Intelligent humane stunning decision-making system. Through image analysis based on these indices, the project will identify critical factors influencing stunning efficiency. By establishing a smart system for real-time adjustments based on the physical characteristics of each bird, the project seeks to develop a model for optimal stunning conditions using various electrical parameters and deep learning techniques for image analysis. This research is expected to provide scientific evidence supporting the humane slaughter of native broilers, thereby establishing a high standard for poultry welfare in the slaughter process.

Poster presented at XI European Symposium on Poultry Welfare 2023,  Prague, Czech Republic, June 26-29, 2023.

The poultry industry in Taiwan, like many parts of the world, has traditionally relied on battery cage systems for egg production. This method, while efficient, has faced increasing scrutiny over animal welfare concerns. In response, there has been a gradual shift towards more hen-friendly housing systems, such as cage-free environments, which aim to improve the quality of life for laying hens. However, this transition brings its own set of challenges, particularly in the management of poultry diseases. One such concern is the increased risk of coccidiosis, a parasitic disease affecting chickens, which can be exacerbated by the greater likelihood of contact between chickens and feces in cage-free systems. Given the implications of housing systems on the prevalence and management of coccidiosis, this study aims to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the impact of different hen-rearing systems on the occurrence of this disease within Taiwan's layer industry. 

Poster presented at CSAS Annual Conference, Taipei, Taiwan. December 10, 2022.

Heat stress may occur when the external and internal heat accumulation surpass the thermoregulation of dairy cows. Thermal-Humidity Index, THI, which was first proposed in 1959, is commonly used to quantify the level of cow heat stress. It has been categorised in 5 levels. When THI is lower than 72, it means no heat stress risk for dairy cattle. When THI is between 72 and 78, cows may show signs of slight heat stress, whereas when it is between 79 and 88 and between 89 and 98, cows may exhibit moderate and severe heat stress, respectively. At a THI breaching 98, cows may suffer and possibly leads to death. Abundant research focus on the effect of dairy cow heat stress and potential methods to alleviate heat stress problems. Scarce studies, however, have put its focus on dairy calves. THI values at which calves start to show signs of heat stress have not been determined. To further investigate the effect of THI on dairy calves’ growth and physiology, we conducted a pilot test. The preliminary data suggested that when THI is over 80, the rectal temperature, respiration rate, water intake and sweating rate were significantly increase in dairy calves. Although no significance was found in feed intake and daily average gain, heat stress response is activated under THI over 80. Therefore, the aims of this study is to examine the effect of temperature and humidity on dairy calves growth, physiology, immunity, gut microbiome and further performance. After confirming the critical THI value of heat stress, we propose to use yeast fermentation products and fans to increase the air flow to alleviate heat stress effect. Furthermore, we also intend to study the in-utero heat stress exposure and its effect on the performance of dairy calves.

Poster presented at CSAS Annual Conference, Tainan, Taiwan.  December 11, 2021.

This study was conducted in the Taitung area with two primary objectives: firstly, to investigate the prevalence of obesity in dogs, and secondly, to determine the correlation between canine obesity and the feeding behavior of the owners. A total of 39 dog-owner pairs participated in the study. We collected data through photographs, body condition scoring, and measurements of chest-to-abdomen ratios. Owners completed a survey providing basic information about themselves and their dogs, details on feeding behaviors, and their awareness of dog obesity and welfare. Additionally, face-to-face interviews were conducted to gather qualitative data. The results indicated that the prevalence of overweight/obese dogs was 56.4%. There was a significant correlation between a dog's body condition score (BCS) and its abdominal-chest ratio. The study revealed a low level of owner awareness regarding the risks associated with canine obesity and its potential to cause health problems, such as diabetes, arthritis, and cancer. Furthermore, many owners reported behavioral issues in their pets. The findings suggest that the high prevalence of dog obesity in Taitung may be linked to a lack of information. Educational programs are recommended to raise awareness and address this issue. An ongoing study is being conducted in other cities to compare the differences between rural and urban areas regarding this issue.

Poster presented at CSAS Annual Conference, Yilan, Taiwan.  December 10, 2020.