Dairy cow welfare
On this page you can find out more about the British Veterinary Association view on dairy cow welfare.
Background
The BVA believes that whilst improvements have been seen in some areas concerning the welfare of dairy cows, such as the longevity of animals; issues related to lameness, mastitis, housing and infectious disease remain areas of concern.
In addition we believe that veterinary surgeons must continue to take an active role in the promotion of welfare on dairy farms and the education of farmers.
What the BVA has done
Dairy cow welfare was initially raised at the BVA Animal Welfare Foundation Discussion Forum in April 2009; as a result
- the Ethics and Welfare Group considered the issue at their meeting in May and November 2009, along with a BCVA representative
- we have produced a policy statement on dairy cow welfare
- a press release was issued in December 2009 which called for vets to educate farmers to improve dairy cow welfare
- in March 2010 the BVA wrote to North Kesteven Council about the Nocton Dairies planning application for a 8000+ dairy cow farm
More information
- FAWC opinion on the welfare of the dairy cow
- EFSA report on the effects of farming systems on dairy cow welfare and disease and opinions on: metabolic and reproductive problems; behaviour fear and pain; udder problems; leg and locomotion problems; the overall effects of farming systems.
- Arla and Morrison’s report on the role of crossbreeding in the dairy industry in the UK
- Defra cattle welfare code