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First Rule in Handling Cows
First Rule in Handling Cows
ST. PAUL, Minn. —This year I have spent many days at
dairies in Minnesota and South Dakota collecting data
for an observational study on dairy housing and well-being.
I have noticed the wide differences among the operations
we are working with for the project
In some dairies, cows run away from us, whereas in
others, the opposite is the case. Treatment of cows
by the workers in the parlor and holding area also varies
widely.
Farm animals are often subjected to aversive handling,
which can result in them becoming fearful of humans.
Fear of people can reduce animal well-being and possibly
milk production, and increase the risk of injury to
both animals and handlers.
Studies conducted in Australia by Hemsworth’s group
indicated that 20 percent of the variation in milk production
among dairies was due to cow handling. Where restlessness
was high, productivity was low. Restlessness, which
they measured by the number of flinch, step and kick
responses, indicates stress.
If animals become fearful of humans due to inadequate
handling, they may experience acute or even chronic
stress in the presence of humans. Negative behaviors
by handlers include hits, slaps, tail twist, shouting,
and fast speed of movement; positive behaviors include
stroking, rubbing, hand resting on the animals back
or flank, and slow and deliberate movement and talking.
When handling cattle, it is important to understand
that cows interpret sights and sounds in a different
way than humans. Cows have poor depth perception and
cannot focus quickly on close objects. Cows usually
lower their heads to look at something because their
vertical vision is only about 60 degrees (compared to
140 degrees in humans).
They will also walk slowly in unfamiliar environments.
Cows should be given enough time to move and walk at
their own pace without being rushed. Cows can hear well
and don't like high, screeching sounds. Hitting or yelling
(and loud swearing) can create a lot of fear and stress.
Cows feel safer in a crowd, so they can be nervous when
alone.
Slow and quiet are two basic rules for working with
cows. Avoid situations that can create fear in cows,
and use every opportunity for positive human contact,
starting at a young age. By following these rules, the
job will be done faster with less stress to the cows.
We should all be known for "loving" our animals and
that includes treating them with care and respect.
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