vaccination program should be developed in consultation with a veterinarian, taking into account the local disease challenges.
( g) Disease investigation: Disease investigation requires knowledge of what to expect at what age and how to detect what is abnormal for the flock. It is important to be familiar with the normal production parameters or standards for the breed. When health problems are seen or suspected in broiler flocks, veterinary advice should be sought immediately. It is helpful to keep up-to-date with local and regional health concerns in order to be aware of any potential disease challenges.
( h) Welfare: Good broiler welfare is complementary to good commercial performance. Well caredfor birds will more closely meet target kill weights and are less liable to downgrading in the processing plant.
( i) Feeding: Correctly balanced nutrient levels, together with the use of feed ingredients with higher levels of digestibility, will help to minimize the effects of heat-related stress. Providing optimum feed form( good quality crumble and pellet) will minimize the energy expended to consume feed and thereby reduce the heat generated during feeding. Optimum feed form will also improve feed acceptability and help feed intake occur during cooler periods of the day or at night. Providing an increase in the amount of feed energy derived from feed fats or oils( rather than carbohydrates) during hot weather has been shown to be beneficial due to reducing the heat produced when the diet is metabolized.
( j) Water: Water is an essential nutrient for broilers. It is used for heat removal, digestion and formation of body tissues. Broilers should consume approximately 1.5-2.0 times as much water as feed on weight basis. A decrease in water consumption is known to substantially reduce feed consumption, which in turn can adversely affect feed conversion ratio. Prominent poultry farmers acknowledge the importance of providing an adequate supply of water, but improper water consumption can often occur if detailed management is not exercised during the daily operation.
The water should be of good quality because poor water quality can adversely affect bird performance. Water is not totally pure, and it contains substances that influence its quality. These substances include bacteria, nitrogen and minerals.
( k) Records: Complete records are necessary. Broiler production is as much a business as the service station on the corner of the town. Records are necessary for computing taxes, for
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