Welfare-positive management and nutrition for the dairy herd: a European perspective

Logue, D. N. and Mayne, C.S. (2014) Welfare-positive management and nutrition for the dairy herd: a European perspective. Veterinary Journal, 199(1), pp. 31-38. (doi: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2013.10.027)

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Abstract

As European dairy farms become larger and diverge between grass-based and fully housed systems, interest in the welfare of the dairy cow and related environmental issues by consumers and legislators is increasing. These pressures mean that good nutrition and management, which underpin much dairy cow welfare, is critical. Despite considerable research into the management and nutrition of the dairy cow from calf to adulthood there is much on-farm variability in its application. While the incidences of many endemic diseases are reduced most are still significant, for example lameness. In addition, trade and climate change are bringing a more diverse range of pathogens, parasites and pests into Northern Europe. Housing aspects are limited in application by economics and in most cases still do not match grazing for welfare in temperate climates. Genomic technologies offer increased opportunities to breed for ‘robustness’ but like ‘precision animal management systems’ have still to be fully exploited.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Logue, Professor David
Authors: Logue, D. N., and Mayne, C.S.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine
Journal Name:Veterinary Journal
Publisher:Elsevier Ltd
ISSN:1090-0233
ISSN (Online):1532-2971

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