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Duval E, Lecorps B, von Keyserlingk MAG. Are regulations addressing farm animal welfare issues during live transportation fit for purpose? A multi-country jurisdictional check. R Soc Open Sci 2024; 11:231072. [PMID: 38269076 PMCID: PMC10805601 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.231072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Growing animal welfare concerns have pushed some jurisdictions to strengthen regulations addressing live farm animal transportation, but whether they provide satisfactory levels of protection for animals remains to be shown. Using the recent peer-reviewed literature, we identified four major risk factors associated with live animal transportation (fitness for transport, journey duration, climatic conditions and space allowances) and explored how regulations were structured to prevent animal welfare issues in five English-speaking Western jurisdictions (Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the EU and the USA). All legally binding federal regulations were systematically reviewed and compared. Whether these rules were fit for purpose was assessed using the relevant peer-reviewed scientific literature. Our findings indicate the majority of regulations in most jurisdictions are often insufficient or too vague to be deemed fit for purpose. All five jurisdictions fall short in guaranteeing adequate protection to livestock during transport. Using recent changes as well as future policy proposals under discussion, we identify future directions that could form the basis for regulatory changes that may significantly improve the welfare of farm animals during transportation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugénie Duval
- Essex Law School, University of Essex, Colchester, UK
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Benjamin Lecorps
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Animal Welfare and Behaviour Group, School of Veterinary Science, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Marina A. G. von Keyserlingk
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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2
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Marshall J, Haley DB, Kelton D, Miltenburg C, Roche S, Duffield T. A focus group study exploring dairy farmers' perspectives of cull cow management in Ontario, Canada. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1189668. [PMID: 37346277 PMCID: PMC10279770 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1189668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Maintaining the welfare of cull dairy cows from the farm to slaughter is an ongoing challenge for the dairy industry. Recent research suggests that some cull dairy cows within the marketing system are in physical states that are below regulatory standards, and further research is required to determine why these unfit cows are found throughout the journey to abattoirs. Since dairy farms are the origin of these cows, decision making by dairy farmers has been identified as key to preventing cull cows that are considered unfit for transport from entering the marketing system. The objectives of this study were to understand dairy farmers' perspectives on their cull dairy cow management practices, recommendations and requirements of regulations, management tools, and welfare issues. Methods Four focus groups with a total of 21 participants were each conducted virtually, video recorded, and transcribed verbatim, with dairy farmers from Ontario, Canada. A thematic analysis of focus group discussions was conducted utilizing deductive reasoning. Results There were three themes identified including deciding to cull or not, management of cows being culled, and knowledge and perceptions of cull cow regulations. When making culling decisions, farmers utilize multiple sources of information including personal experiences and values and external referents like veterinarians, family members and other farmers. The welfare of their cows was a high priority but one that was often weighed against the financial outcomes of culling decisions. Finally, most participants considered recent regulatory changes for the management of cows before shipment to be of little importance on their farms. Discussion In conclusion, the farmers from this study showed the diversity of considerations they make in culling decisions and the large contribution of animal productivity and economic factors. There was a general lack of knowledge of recent regulatory changes for the shipment of cull cows, and there is room for improving the uptake of new recommendations for culling only cows fit for transportation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne Marshall
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Derek B. Haley
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, ON, Canada
- Campbell Centre for the Study of Animal Welfare, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
- Dairy at Guelph, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - David Kelton
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, ON, Canada
- Dairy at Guelph, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
- Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Cynthia Miltenburg
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, ON, Canada
- Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Steven Roche
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, ON, Canada
- ACER Consulting Limited, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Todd Duffield
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, ON, Canada
- Dairy at Guelph, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
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3
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Kuo C, von Keyserlingk MAG. Livestock hauler and dairy farmer perspectives about cull dairy cattle transport and cattle transport regulations in British Columbia, Canada. Anim Welf 2023; 32:e42. [PMID: 38487451 PMCID: PMC10936252 DOI: 10.1017/awf.2023.36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
Dairy cows are usually culled and transported from the farm when they no longer meet the farm's standards for production or are not needed for milk production. Some cows are transported while in poor condition and may deteriorate further during transport. In February 2020, Canadian federal animal transport regulations were revised with the aim to minimise risks to livestock during transport; changes that may impact cull dairy cows included defining compromised cattle and limiting their maximum transport time. This study conducted semi-structured interviews with dairy farmers (n = 6) and cattle haulers (n = 4) in British Columbia, Canada, to gain an in-depth understanding of the effect of the regulations on their practices when shipping and transporting dairy cows to slaughter. Interviews were transcribed in Otter.ai and thematically coded in NVivo 12. While farmer and hauler participants recognised the importance of animal welfare during transport and described practices such as shipping mobile animals to reduce the risk that cows would become non-ambulatory during transport, they also described little change in shipping and transport practices due to the new regulations. Among interviewed participants, barriers to compliance with the regulations appear to be low knowledge of, and mixed or negative attitudes towards the regulations. Participants also described how they felt a lack of communication along the transport chain and limited transport and slaughter infrastructure made compliance difficult. Possible suggestions to remedy these barriers include providing educational resources about the regulations and encouraging communication about cow fitness for transport between responsible parties in the transport chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Kuo
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, The University of British Columbia, 2357 Main Mall Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z6
| | - Marina AG von Keyserlingk
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, The University of British Columbia, 2357 Main Mall Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z6
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4
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Hendricks J, Roche S, Proudfoot KL, von Keyserlingk MAG. Livestock haulers' views about dairy cattle transport in Atlantic Canada. J Dairy Sci 2023; 106:3548-3558. [PMID: 37002134 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2022-22752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
Surplus dairy calves and cull cows are often transported from the dairy farm to a variety of destinations and may experience compromised health and welfare in the process. Increasing interest in farm animal welfare by many stakeholders, including the public and policymakers, has brought about recent changes to livestock transport regulations in Canada that have likely affected transport operations across the country. The Atlantic region may be especially affected as a result of a smaller number of farms, and geography that often requires cattle to be transported long distances. We interviewed 7 livestock haulers in Atlantic Canada regarding their attitudes toward the recent changes to the transport regulations, particularly with regard to how these changes affected their business practices and dairy cattle welfare, as certain regulatory changes pertaining to calf transport were expected to disrupt existing transport practices. Thematic analysis of interview transcripts revealed 2 themes among participants: (1) calf (and sometimes adult cow) welfare and management during transport and on the dairy farm, and (2) feasibility of transport requirements and the enforcement of the regulations, including animosity toward other haulers and the challenge of satisfying both regulatory bodies and farmer clientele. These findings provide insight into the perspectives of an important, and often overlooked, stakeholder in the dairy industry on the transport system and highlight the need for inclusion of diverse voices when creating new policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jillian Hendricks
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 1Z6, Canada
| | - Steven Roche
- ACER Consulting Inc., Guelph, ON, N1G 5L3, Canada
| | - Kathryn L Proudfoot
- Sir James Dunn Animal Welfare Centre, 424S Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, C1A 4P3, Canada
| | - Marina A G von Keyserlingk
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 1Z6, Canada.
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5
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Denis-Robichaud J, Rousseau M, Denicourt M, Villettaz-Robichaud M, Lamothe AM, DesCôteaux L. Methods used by Canadian dairy farmers for on-farm euthanasia and the emotions associated with the decision and the practice of euthanasia. J Dairy Sci 2023; 106:1301-1314. [PMID: 36460510 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2022-21986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
On-farm euthanasia is complicated in that farmers have to make the decision to end the life of an animal they are caring for. Studies have shown that some culling decisions are made too late, which results in animal welfare issues. However, information about on-farm euthanasia methods and the decision process leading to the euthanasia of an animal is limited. Additionally, emotions and feelings are involved in the decision and the act of euthanasia. The objectives of this study were to describe current practices related to on-farm euthanasia performed by Canadian dairy farmers and to assess the emotions and complex feelings surrounding the act. A cross-sectional study design was used to gather this information through an online questionnaire completed exclusively by Canadian dairy farmers. Data were analyzed descriptively using frequencies, and associations between the participants' characteristics and their practices and emotions regarding on-farm euthanasia were assessed using logistic regression models. A total of 479 dairy farmers from 5 provinces answered the survey. The most commonly used primary method of on-farm euthanasia was a firearm (>70%). Unacceptable euthanasia methods, such as standard 0.22-caliber long rifle for adult cows or no adjunct method following the use of captive bolt, were used by 25%, 18%, and 58% of the participants for calves, replacement animals, and dairy cows, respectively. Ninety-four percent of the participants reported that the farm owner was the person who always or often made the euthanasia decisions. In addition, 32% of the participants reported that the veterinarian always examined the animal before performing euthanasia, 51% reported at least one person received training to perform euthanasia, and 16% reported having a decision tree for euthanasia. Some participants (17%) were troubled with the responsibility for ending the life of their animals, and 19% perceived other people on the farm to be uncomfortable with performing euthanasia. Half of the participants reported that people performing euthanasia on the farm felt at least one related painful emotion or complex feeling, and half reported they had at least one reason to feel anxiety or unease concerning euthanasia. The results of this study showed gaps such as the limited use of acceptable euthanasia methods and decision trees by Canadian dairy farmers, low availability of on-farm training for euthanasia, and variable involvement of veterinarians.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - M Rousseau
- Département de Sciences Cliniques, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec, J2S 2M2, Canada
| | - M Denicourt
- Département de Sciences Cliniques, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec, J2S 2M2, Canada
| | - M Villettaz-Robichaud
- Département de Sciences Cliniques, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec, J2S 2M2, Canada
| | - A-M Lamothe
- Independent psychologist and researcher, Terrebonne, Québec, Canada
| | - L DesCôteaux
- Département de Sciences Cliniques, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec, J2S 2M2, Canada.
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6
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Piazza M, Berton M, Amalfitano N, Bittante G, Gallo L. Cull cow carcass traits and risk of culling of Holstein cows and 3-breed rotational crossbred cows from Viking Red, Montbéliarde, and Holstein bulls. J Dairy Sci 2022; 106:312-322. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2022-22328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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7
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Marshall J, Haley D, Levison L, Kelton DF, Miltenburg C, Roche S, Duffield TF. A survey of practices and attitudes around cull cow management by bovine veterinarians in Ontario, Canada. J Dairy Sci 2022; 106:302-311. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2022-22005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Marshall J, Haley D, Levison L, Kelton DF, Miltenburg C, Roche S, Duffield TF. A survey of dairy cattle farmers' management practices for cull cows in Ontario, Canada. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:974061. [PMID: 36110502 PMCID: PMC9468542 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.974061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Removal of cows from dairy cattle production is a routine and unavoidable practice of the dairy industry and is often referred to as culling. The objectives of this study were to use a survey to describe current on-farm cull cow management, farmers' perception of cull cows' journeys to slaughter, and the adoption of current recommendations and regulations by Ontario dairy farmers. All Ontario dairy farmers were invited to complete a cull cow management survey between December 2020 and March 2021 that included 44 questions covering farmer demographic information, farm characteristics, and cull cow management. The survey response rate was 7.4% (n = 248); a total of 226 of the responses were included in this study for analysis. Most respondents indicated they have a written standard operating procedure (SOP) for cull cows (62%), and 48, 13, and 15% of those identified they use their cull cow SOP “always,” “sometimes,” and “never,” respectively. The more confident respondents were that cull cows arrived at slaughter in the condition they left the farm the less likely they were to have a cull cow SOP [odds ratio (OR) 0.83]. The most important sources of information for the management of cull cows were the herd veterinarian (64%) and members of the marketing/regulatory organization the Dairy Farmers of Ontario (44%). Drug withdrawal time was the only factor most respondents (73%) considered “very important” for the assessment of cull cows prior to transport. Most farmers believe cull cows journey from the farm to slaughter is three or less days (55%), and the confidence of farmers that cull cows arrive at slaughter in the condition they left their farm was generally high. Lastly, most farmers (66%) identified they were familiar with recent regulatory changes around the fitness, duration of transport, and lactation status for cull cows. These results highlight farmers' perceptions of the impacts and durations of the journey of cull cows differs from reality, and there are misunderstandings of the requirements for cull cow management. Further research should investigate how different strategies for training farmers may lead to improved cull cow welfare and regulatory compliance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne Marshall
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
- *Correspondence: Joanne Marshall
| | - Derek Haley
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
- Campbell Centre for the Study of Animal Welfare, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
- Dairy at Guelph, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Lena Levison
- Campbell Centre for the Study of Animal Welfare, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - David F. Kelton
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
- Dairy at Guelph, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
- ACER Consulting Limited, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Cynthia Miltenburg
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
- Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Elora, ON, Canada
| | - Steven Roche
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
- ACER Consulting Limited, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Todd F. Duffield
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
- Dairy at Guelph, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
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9
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Dahl-Pedersen K. Danish Cattle Farmers' Experience With Fitness for Transport – A Questionnaire Survey. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:797149. [PMID: 35372551 PMCID: PMC8971744 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.797149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Worldwide, cattle are transported in great numbers for breeding, fattening and slaughter. Within the European Union, the Council Regulation 1/2005 states that all animals must be fit for transport. Yet, the line between fit and unfit is blurred as the regulation allows for animals that are slightly ill or injured to be transported. However, “slightly ill or injured” lack a clear definition leaving room for individual interpretation of fitness for transport with potential negative implications in terms of both animal welfare and legal certainty. The aim of the present study was to gain an understanding of cattle farmers' experience with and doubt about assessment of fitness for transport-a topic that has received limited scientific attention, despite the important role of farmers in maintaining acceptable animal welfare during transport. The results of the study are based on 119 Danish cattle farmers' answers to a questionnaire survey. The majority of respondents felt they possessed the knowledge and skills required for assessment of fitness for transport. However, a considerable large part of the respondents, one third approximately, reported to be in doubt at least sometimes and likewise one third felt a lack of knowledge at least sometimes. In addition, more than half of the respondents reported that they at least sometimes found it difficult to understand the rules to address the disconnect between on-farm and slaughterhouse decisions and fitness for on-farm slaughter. These results indicate that learning materials, assessment tools and training programs could be helpful for a large group of cattle farmers in order to secure animal welfare during transport. The results also underline the need for further research to clarify what constitutes a “fit” vs. “unfit” animal.
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10
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Edwards-Callaway L, Simpson H, Román-Muñiz N, Cramer C, Mijares S, Stallones L, Rivera-Gonzalez J, Aberle J. Preliminary Exploration of Weekly Peer Group Discussions as a Strategy for Coping with Feelings Associated with Euthanasia in Dairy Caretakers. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:2177. [PMID: 35206363 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19042177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Dairy caretakers experience a variety of occupational risks including stress related to performing euthanasia and making euthanasia-related decisions for cattle in their care. Few supportive interventions exist to help caretakers cope with euthanasia-related stress. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of weekly peer discussion sessions as an intervention to reduce euthanasia-related stress and grief in dairy caretakers. This study utilized scores from a modified pet-based bereavement questionnaire to assess the change in bereavement of caretakers in response to euthanasia-related stress in a non-treatment group (who did not attend peer discussion sessions, n = 7) and a treatment group (who attended peer discussion sessions, n = 15). Key findings of this study were that discussion sessions did not have a direct impact on the study outcomes as measured using a pet bereavement scale, as there was no difference in the change in bereavement scores during the 8 week study period between the treatment and non-treatment groups. Thematic analysis of peer discussions revealed that compassion towards dairy cattle is a prominent factor in areas of decision making, protocols, and training. Further studies should continue to explore how performing euthanasia and making euthanasia-related decisions impacts caretakers and what supportive interventions can reduce stress and grief.
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11
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Moreira LC, Rosa GJM, Schaefer DM. Beef production from cull dairy cows: a review from culling to consumption. J Anim Sci 2021; 99:skab192. [PMID: 34125214 PMCID: PMC8281100 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skab192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Although more than 3 million head of dairy cows enter the food supply chain in the U.S. every year, research on this topic remains limited and scarce. Meat production from dairy cows is a significant component of beef production, accounting for almost 10% of U.S. commercial beef production. Thus, the purpose of this review is to demonstrate the importance of dairy cows as a beef source, and to provide an overview on topics from farm to meat product-culling, marketing, transportation, welfare, body composition and its relationship with lactation particularities, carcass characteristics, meat quality, and traceability. Current scientific evidence has shown that culling a dairy cow at an appropriate time has beneficial effects on cow welfare and, consequently, cow value. During marketing the dairy cow is visually evaluated for health and factors associated with its expected carcass value; thus, marketing a well-conditioned cow will ensure that the animal is fit for transportation and provides high carcass yield. However, limitations such as low body condition score, lameness or mobility problems, and visual defects remain persistent. Even though beef harvest plants accommodate cows in all body composition states, the current carcass grade system does not reflect the mature cow industry needs. Therefore, improvement of the grading system could maximize carcass utilization and increase cow carcass value by recognizing subprimal cuts that could be merchandised as whole muscle cuts. Lastly, implementation of a traceability system would unify information from the farm to harvest assisting the industry in making further advancements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ligia C Moreira
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Guilherme J M Rosa
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Daniel M Schaefer
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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12
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Herskin MS, Duffield T. Editorial: Animal Transport and Related Management. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:614317. [PMID: 33330728 PMCID: PMC7728605 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.614317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mette S Herskin
- Department of Animial Science, Aarhus University, AU-FOULUM, Tjele, Denmark
| | - Todd Duffield
- University of Guelph, Ontario Western College, Population Medicine, Guelph, ON, Canada
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Nielsen SS, Alvarez J, Bicout DJ, Calistri P, Depner K, Drewe JA, Garin-Bastuji B, Gonzales Rojas JL, Schmidt CG, Michel V, Miranda Chueca MÁ, Roberts HC, Sihvonen LH, Spoolder H, Stahl K, Velarde A, Viltrop A, Candiani D, Van der Stede Y, Winckler C. Welfare of cattle at slaughter. EFSA J 2020; 18:e06275. [PMID: 33163113 PMCID: PMC7607414 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2020.6275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The killing of cattle for human consumption (slaughtering) can take place in a slaughterhouse or on farm. The processes of slaughtering that were assessed for welfare, from the arrival of cattle until their death (including slaughtering without stunning), were grouped into three main phases: pre-stunning (including arrival, unloading from the truck, lairage, handling and moving of cattle); stunning (including restraint); and bleeding. Stunning methods were grouped into two categories: mechanical and electrical. Twelve welfare consequences that cattle may be exposed to during slaughter were identified: heat stress, cold stress, fatigue, prolonged thirst, prolonged hunger, impeded movement, restriction of movements, resting problems (inability to rest or discomfort during resting), social stress, pain, fear and distress. Welfare consequences and their relevant animal-based measures are described. In total, 40 welfare hazards that could occur during slaughter were identified and characterised, most of them related to stunning and bleeding. Staff were identified as the origin of 39 hazards, which were attributed to the lack of appropriate skill sets needed to perform tasks or to fatigue. Measures to prevent and correct hazards were identified, and structural and managerial measures were identified as those with a crucial role in prevention. Outcome tables linking hazards, welfare consequences, animal-based measures, origin of hazards, and preventive and corrective measures were developed for each process. Mitigation measures to minimise welfare consequences are proposed.
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Wang J, Xue K, Yi P, Zhu X, Peng Q, Wang Z, Peng Y, Chen Y, Robertson ID, Li X, Guo A, Aleri JW. An Abattoir-Based Study on the Prevalence of Salmonella Fecal Carriage and ESBL Related Antimicrobial Resistance from Culled Adult Dairy Cows in Wuhan, China. Pathogens 2020; 9:E853. [PMID: 33086687 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9100853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to estimate the fecal carriage of Salmonella spp. among culled adult dairy cows presented to an abattoir in Wuhan, China and to evaluate their antimicrobial resistance profiles. Rectal swabs from 138 culled cows were cultured. Laboratory analysis involved the identification of Salmonella, the susceptibility assessment and the presence of Extended Spectrum β-lactamases and mcr genes in the isolates. An overall prevalence of Salmonella of 29.0% was recorded with 63.4% (26/41) and 2.4% (1/41) of the isolates identified as S. Typhimurium and S. Dublin, respectively. The occurrence of Salmonella was higher (odd ratios: 3.3) in culled cows originating from the northeast zone of China than cows originating from the central and north zones. Twenty multi-drug resistant strains (resistant to three or more antimicrobial agents) were detected (48.8%) and overall, a high resistance to ampicillin (36/41) and tetracycline (15/41) was observed. Extended Spectrum β-lactamases phenotypes were found in 7/41 isolates, of which all contained the blaCTX-M resistance gene, and no mcr genes were found by polymerase chain reaction. The high prevalence of Salmonella fecal carriage and antimicrobial resistance may contribute to an increased risk of Salmonella transmission to food.
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Wilson DJ, Canning D, Giacomazzi T, Keels K, Lothrop R, Renaud DL, Sillett N, Taylor D, Van Huigenbos H, Wynands B, Zuest D, Fraser D. Hot topic: Health and welfare challenges in the marketing of male dairy calves-Findings and consensus of an expert consultation. J Dairy Sci 2020; 103:11628-11635. [PMID: 33069400 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2020-18438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
A diverse group of Canadian experts was convened for a focused 2-d discussion on potential health and welfare problems associated with the marketing (i.e., transportation and sale) of male dairy calves. Written notes and audio recording were used to summarize the information provided on transport times and marketing practices. Content analysis was used to develop a consensus statement on concerns, possible solutions, and recommendations to improve male dairy calf marketing. The group noted that calves across all Canadian regions are commonly transported at 3 to 7 d of age and undergo transport for 12 to 24 h or longer depending on the location of their dairy farm of origin. Calves in some regions are marketed almost exclusively through auction markets, whereas others have more direct sales. A need was identified for better criteria for calf fitness for transport, maintaining farm biosecurity, reducing the use of antimicrobial therapy in calf production, and improving education for farmers and veterinarians on the importance of neonatal care for male dairy calves before transportation. Experts noted that major changes in male dairy calf marketing will be required to comply with amendments to the federal Health of Animals Regulations (Part XII) on animal transportation; collaborative effort will be needed to safeguard animal health and welfare as this transition is made.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devon J Wilson
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, 2357 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 1Z6.
| | - Derick Canning
- Canning Farm Ltd., 940 Southside Rd., Upper Stewiacke, NS, Canada B0N 2P0
| | - Terri Giacomazzi
- British Columbia Ministry of Agriculture, 1767 Angus Campbell Road, Abbotsford, BC, Canada V3G 2M3
| | - Kendra Keels
- Veal Farmers of Ontario/Canadian Veal Association, 12-449 Laird Road, Guelph, ON, Canada N1G 4W1
| | - Reny Lothrop
- Canadian Association of Bovine Veterinarians, 226E Wheeler Street, Saskatoon, SK, Canada S7P 0A9
| | - David L Renaud
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph ON, Canada N1G 2W1
| | - Nicole Sillett
- Dairy Farmers of Canada, 21 Florence Street, Ottawa, ON, Canada, K2P 0W6
| | - Dave Taylor
- Dairy Farmers of Canada, 21 Florence Street, Ottawa, ON, Canada, K2P 0W6
| | | | - Bob Wynands
- Veal Farmers of Ontario/Canadian Veal Association, 12-449 Laird Road, Guelph, ON, Canada N1G 4W1
| | - Dave Zuest
- Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), 30585B Progressive Way, Abbotsford, BC, Canada V2T 6W3
| | - David Fraser
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, 2357 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 1Z6
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16
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Roche SM, Renaud DL, Genore R, Shock DA, Bauman C, Croyle S, Barkema HW, Dubuc J, Keefe GP, Kelton DF. Canadian National Dairy Study: Describing Canadian dairy producer practices and perceptions surrounding cull cow management. J Dairy Sci 2020; 103:3414-3421. [PMID: 32089309 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2019-17390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Farmer decisions surrounding culling have an important effect on the health and welfare of cull cows. The objectives of this study were to describe the self-reported shipment behaviors of Canadian dairy producers and understand farmer perspectives on the factors that were most influential in their decision to cull a cow. A nationwide survey was administered between March and April 2015 that included 192 questions covering producer background information, farm characteristics, biosecurity practices, disease prevalence, calf health, cow welfare, lameness, milking hygiene, reproduction, and Internet and social media use. The survey yielded a 12% response rate; a total of 1,076 respondents (78% of all survey respondents completed the culling section of the survey) were included in this study for analysis. Approximately 80, 51, and 38% of respondents reported shipping at least 1 cow to auction, direct to slaughter, and to another dairy farm in the past 12 mo, respectively. Ability of the cow to remain standing (93% of respondents) and drug withdrawal times (92% of respondents) were identified as the most important factors for consideration when culling cows. The time between culling decision and when the cow was actually transported was longer for lame cows than sick cows; almost 70% of respondents reported that cows culled for illness were typically shipped within 1 wk of culling decision, whereas only 51% of respondents indicated the same was true for lame cows. Last, Canadian dairy producers generally exhibited strong confidence that their culled cows would arrive at slaughter in the same condition as they left, but felt very unsure about knowing the location of their final destination. These results highlight several gaps between producer perceptions and the true situation, and can be used to develop tailored programs and inform policy and regulatory decisions aimed at improving cull cow decisions and cow welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Roche
- ACER Consulting Ltd., Guelph, Ontario, Canada, N1G 5L3; Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada, N1G 2W1
| | - D L Renaud
- ACER Consulting Ltd., Guelph, Ontario, Canada, N1G 5L3; Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada, N1G 2W1
| | - R Genore
- ACER Consulting Ltd., Guelph, Ontario, Canada, N1G 5L3
| | - D A Shock
- ACER Consulting Ltd., Guelph, Ontario, Canada, N1G 5L3
| | - C Bauman
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada, N1G 2W1
| | - S Croyle
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada, N1G 2W1
| | - H W Barkema
- Department of Production Animal Health, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada, T2N 1N4
| | - J Dubuc
- Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, St-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada, J2S 2M2
| | - G P Keefe
- Department of Health Management, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, PE, Canada, C1A 4P3
| | - D F Kelton
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada, N1G 2W1.
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17
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Stojkov J, von Keyserlingk MAG, Duffield T, Fraser D. Management of cull dairy cows: Culling decisions, duration of transport, and effect on cow condition. J Dairy Sci 2020; 103:2636-2649. [PMID: 31954571 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2019-17435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Many cows culled from dairy farms arrive at livestock markets or abattoirs in compromised condition, but it is unknown whether cows are compromised at the time of culling or deteriorate during the marketing process. This study followed cull cows from farm to abattoir, monitored any deterioration, and tested the effect of providing such information on subsequent culling. For 11 mo, data were collected from 20 dairy farms, livestock markets, and abattoirs. Cows' body condition, lameness, and udder condition (as binary outcomes) were assessed at 4 points: when placed on the culling list, before leaving the farm, at auction, and at the abattoir. Based on the first 5 mo of data (baseline period), information materials were provided to 10 randomly selected farms (Informed treatment), and the other 10 served as a Control. Logistic mixed models were used to test differences in cows' condition at the 4 points of assessment, using the assessment before leaving the farm as a reference value and cow-within-farm as a random effect. The effects of providing information on outcome measures (proportion thin, severely lame, with udder edema, poor fitness for transport, euthanized, and died) were tested with a general linear model. As demand for milk increased during the baseline period, additional linear mixed models were fitted to test whether the same outcome measures were affected by time (baseline or treatment period) and treatment (Informed or Control) using farm as a random effect. While cows were on the culling list (before shipping) the odds of being thin or having poor fitness for transport increased. After leaving the farms, cows spent (mean ± standard deviation) 82 ± 46 h in the marketing system before being slaughtered. Shipping from farm to abattoir increased the odds of being thin, having udder edema, or showing poor fitness for transport [odds ratio (OR) 5.8, 95% confidence interval 4.2 to 8.1; OR 14.7, 10.7 to 20.2; and OR 7.3, 5.7 to 9.5, respectively]. Providing this information to farmers (Informed treatment) did not affect the outcome measures. Compared with the baseline, during the treatment period fewer cows were shipped when thin (4.9 versus 9.0%) and with poor fitness for transport (15.7 versus 25.8%), and fewer cows died (5.4 versus 11.9%) or were euthanized (13.3 versus 20.5%). Increased demand for milk appeared to lead to delayed culling, such that more compromised cows were sent to slaughter. The results of this study show a need for clear and specific guidelines to assess fitness for transport of cull dairy cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Stojkov
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 1Z4, Canada.
| | - M A G von Keyserlingk
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - T Duffield
- Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - D Fraser
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 1Z4, Canada
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18
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Stojkov J, von Keyserlingk MAG, Duffield T, Fraser D. Fitness for transport of cull dairy cows at livestock markets. J Dairy Sci 2019; 103:2650-2661. [PMID: 31882216 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2019-17454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Cows are regularly removed from dairy herds and sold at livestock markets. Many cows are removed because of health problems, and their fitness for transport may vary because of seasonal variation, delayed or poor on-farm culling decisions, injuries during transport, and other factors. However, many dairy producers lack feedback about the condition of their cows during the marketing process and how cow condition influences sale price. This study evaluated the condition of cull dairy cows sold at livestock markets, tested how changing demand for milk influenced fitness for transport, and quantified how cow condition affected the price paid. For 12 mo, 2 livestock markets in British Columbia, Canada, were visited during 137 auction events when cull dairy cows were sold; 3 trained assessors observed 6,263 cull dairy cows while they were marketed in a sale ring. Observers recorded the cows' body condition score (BCS), locomotion score (LS), udder condition, quality defects (e.g., injuries, illness), and price. Logistic regression was used to test how month-to-month changes in demand for milk affected cows' fitness for transport, and a linear mixed model assessed how the animals' condition influenced the price. About 10% of the cows were thin (BCS ≤2), 7% were severely lame (locomotion score ≥4), 13% had engorged or inflamed udders, and 6% had other quality defects including abscesses, injuries, and signs of sickness (e.g., pneumonia). Cows culled during months with increased milk demand had much higher odds of poor fitness for transport (odds ratio 8.6, 95% confidence interval: 4.02-18.22). The price was most reduced if cows were thin (BCS ≤2) or visibly sick (-$0.63 ± 0.01/kg and -$0.56 ± 0.02/kg, respectively). Prices were reduced to a lesser degree by locomotion score ≥4 (-$0.35 ± 0.02/kg) and by udder condition (udder inflammation; -$0.30 ± 0.02/kg). Overall fitness for transport reduced the price by $0.51 ± 0.01/kg. In summary, about 30% of the cows sold at livestock markets had poor fitness for transport, which was partially influenced by increased milk demand and resulted in reduced market prices.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Stojkov
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, The University of British Columbia, 2357 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada.
| | - M A G von Keyserlingk
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, The University of British Columbia, 2357 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - T Duffield
- Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road E., Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - D Fraser
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, The University of British Columbia, 2357 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
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19
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Abstract
There is an increasing demand for health and welfare monitoring in modern dairy farming. The development of various innovative techniques aims at improving animal behaviour monitoring and thus animal welfare indicators on-farm. Automated lameness detection systems have to be valid, reliable and practicable to be applied in veterinary practice or under farm conditions. The objective of this literature review was to describe the current automated systems for detection of lameness in cattle, which have been recently developed and investigated for application in dairy research and practice. The automatic methods of lameness detection broadly fall into three categories: kinematic, kinetic and indirect methods. The performance of the methods were compared with the reference standard (locomotion score and/or lesion score) and evaluated based on level-based scheme defining the degree of development (level I, sensor technique; level II, validation of algorithm; level III, performance for detection of lameness and/or lesion; level IV, decision support with early warning system). Many scientific studies have been performed on levels I-III, but there are no studies of level IV technology. The adoption rate of automated lameness detection systems by herd managers mainly yields returns on investment by the early identification of lame cows. Long-term studies, using validated automated lameness detection systems aiming at early lameness detection, are still needed in order to improve welfare and production under field conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maher Alsaaod
- Clinic for Ruminants, Vetsuisse-Faculty, University of Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Mahmoud Fadul
- Clinic for Ruminants, Vetsuisse-Faculty, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Adrian Steiner
- Clinic for Ruminants, Vetsuisse-Faculty, University of Bern, Switzerland
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Edwards-Callaway LN, Walker J, Tucker CB. Culling Decisions and Dairy Cattle Welfare During Transport to Slaughter in the United States. Front Vet Sci 2019; 5:343. [PMID: 30713846 PMCID: PMC6345707 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2018.00343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Nearly a third of dairy cows are removed from herds annually in the United States. Our objective is to describe what is known about the process of sending a dairy cow to slaughter in the United States including our perspectives about her fitness for transport, her condition upon arrival at the slaughter plant and the decisions to transport her in the first place. This process begins when the decision is made by the farmer to remove a cow from the herd. Once a cow leaves the farm, she makes her way either directly to slaughter or goes through one or more livestock auctions or markets along the way. Cull cows can travel considerable distance to slaughter and may face a number of welfare challenges during this process. These stressors are exacerbated if the cows are compromised and not fit for transport. While all major industry stakeholders have recommendations or guidelines about fitness for transport, none are enforced rules or regulations. There is little financial disincentive for farmers to stop shipping compromised dairy cows, and, in some cases, slaughter plants are willing to take the risk on purchasing cows in this condition as those that survive the journey often generate a good margin of return. As a result, the decision to ship compromised cull cows is too common, as indicated by data about cow condition both at the farm and the slaughter plant. Compromised culled dairy cattle continue to arrive at slaughter plants and leadership within the industry is needed to tackle this welfare challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jennifer Walker
- Quality and Food Safety Danone North America, White Plains, NY, United States
| | - Cassandra B. Tucker
- Center for Animal Welfare, Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
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