Please take a few minutes to watch the video and read the article, as it’s important to know about any information being shared on our industry, especially when, as in this report, it’s lacking a lot of factual information. Consumers need to hear your story about how you care for your animals so they in turn, produce healthy, wholesome dairy products.
The dairy checkoff has provided some talking points to help you share the true story of the U.S. dairy industry, and producers’ commitment to animal care. Remember these points when having a conversation about your dairy both in person or online.
Also, please remember you have media support available. If media shows up at your door, contact your local dairy checkoff staff. Click here for tips on conducting media interviews.
General Animal Care
· Dairy cows must be healthy and well cared-for in order to produce pure, wholesome milk.
· Dairy cows receive regular medical care, including periodic check-ups, vaccinations and prompt treatment of illness.
· Dairy farmers depend on healthy cows for their livelihoods. They care for their herds by providing a nutritious diet, good medical care and healthy living conditions.
Tail Docking
· Some dairy farmers crop the tails of their animals to promote cleanliness, similar to what people do to some breeds of dogs.
· Switch trimming, which is the removal of the hair at the end of the tail, is the preferred alternative to docking for hygiene purposes.
· Because the procedure has limited impact on the animal’s comfort, and no negative impact on the safety or quality of milk, we regard this as one of the many individual management decisions dairy farmers make in their operations.
Dehorning
· Dehorning has been used for decades to help reduce the risk of injury to cows and animal handlers.
· Dairy farmers and veterinarians ensure the comfort and safety of an animal during the dehorning process through sedation or anesthesia.
What animal care stories can you share?
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