D

doa: Abbreviation for dead on arrival. Managing the health and welfare of livestock during transportation involves implementing proper handling, monitoring, and care practices. Farmers should work with veterinarians and transportation experts to ensure that animals arrive in good health. Understanding the factors contributing to DOA will aid in developing effective management strategies and improving animal welfare.

dapple: Rounded patches of color, especially on a horse. Dappled horses are often sought after for their unique appearance. Farmers and breeders can market dappled horses to enthusiasts and buyers looking for aesthetically pleasing animals. Proper grooming and care will enhance the appearance of dappled horses, increasing their market value.

dairy cows: Cows and heifers kept for milk production and for rearing calves to replace older cows in a dairy herd. Effective management of dairy cows involves balanced nutrition, regular health check-ups, and proper milking practices. Implementing these practices can lead to higher milk yields, better cow health, and increased profitability. Farmers should also focus on genetic selection to breed cows that are more efficient milk producers.

D value: Abbreviation for digestibility value, the amount of digestible organic matter in the dry matter of plants. Understanding D value helps farmers evaluate the nutritional quality of animal feed and make informed decisions about feeding practices.

deflocculation: A state in which clay particles repel each other instead of sticking together. Deflocculation may occur when clays are worked in a wet condition or if the soil becomes saline. Managing soil structure and salinity is crucial for preventing deflocculation. Farmers should implement practices like gypsum application, proper irrigation management, and organic matter addition to maintain soil structure and fertility. Understanding soil properties can help farmers choose appropriate management strategies.

disinfestation: The process of removing harmful organisms such as insects or rodents from a place or an object. Proper disinfestation practices are essential for maintaining farm hygiene and preventing pest outbreaks. Farmers should use appropriate methods and techniques for effective disinfestation. Understanding the benefits and applications of disinfestation will aid in maintaining a healthy and productive farm environment.

duck: A bird reared for both egg and meat production. The male is a ‘drake’. Ducks are versatile poultry that can be raised for various purposes, including egg production, meat, and pest control.

diet: The amount and type of food eaten. COMMENT: Animal welfare codes lay down rules about the quality of diet that should be provided for animals or birds to ensure their good health and welfare. Providing a balanced and nutritious diet is essential for maintaining livestock health and productivity. Farmers should work with veterinarians and nutritionists to develop proper feeding plans and ensure that animals receive the necessary nutrients. Understanding the dietary requirements of different livestock species will aid in effective feed management.

dietary fibre: Same as roughage. COMMENT: Dietary fibre is found in cereals, nuts, fruit, and some green vegetables. It is believed to be necessary to help digestion and to avoid developing constipation, obesity, and appendicitis. Providing dietary fiber is important for maintaining the digestive health of livestock. Farmers should include adequate roughage in the diets of their animals to promote proper digestion and overall health. Understanding the sources and benefits of dietary fiber will aid in effective feed management.

dehair: To remove hard hairs from fine goat fibers such as angora. Proper dehairing techniques are essential for producing high-quality fibers. Farmers should use appropriate equipment and methods to dehair goat fibers, ensuring minimal damage and maximum yield. Understanding the market demands for dehaired fibers can help farmers optimize their processing and marketing strategies.