Studying the Impact of Cattle Farmers: A Case Study of Ban Sai Ngern Community, Village No. 2, Lanskha Sub-District, Lanska District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province

Abstract

This article aims (1) to study the knowledge of cattle farmers in raising young cattle; and (2) to investigate the impact on the livelihood of cattle farmers. The key informants were selectively chosen from various groups, including cattle farmers, livestock farming community leaders, cattle farm owners, committee members in cattle farms, government officials promoting animal husbandry, hired cattle caretakers, and tourists/spectators of cattle sports. In total, there were 15 participants. The research employed interviews as the primary research tool, with content analysis, organization, and presentation conducted in a narrative form. The research found that Knowledge of raising young cattle, regional characteristics, and cattle development in the South is commonly focused on agricultural use and the selection of cattle breeds from both male and female cattle. Training and exercise, bathing, natural grass consumption, and providing supplements with minerals and vitamins are also common practices. Pairing is done with cattle that have similar body structures, and external adornments are often applied, such as applying turmeric after the cattle bathe. The impact on cattle farmers includes affecting the lifestyle of cattle game players. Cattle games are well-known and popular in the southern region, influencing the lifestyle of cattle game players. Owners of cattle are usually part of local communities or cattle-loving groups. The impact extends to the lifestyle of cattle game field owners, who are typically individuals with wealth and credibility. This impact on the lifestyle of cattle game field owners is inherited from previous generations and passed down through the generations. It also influences the lifestyle of viewers, which includes people of all ages, both women and men.