Just 5 Minutes Of Neck Scratches Make Dairy Cows Happier, Calmer

Mar 10, 2023

By Shyla Cadogan

In the dairy industry, keeping calves happy and healthy is important, especially during weaning. New research shows that a little human interaction can do the trick — particularly if it means a nice neck-scratching for the young cows.

Scientists from the University of Florida might be a welcome, cost-effective discovery for farmers. Their new study shows that socialization with other calves and humans, even if only for five minutes, can improve their well-being.

“Calves are active and seek stimulation following milk-feeding, so providing more things to do, like brushing, may calm calves, reducing sucking behaviors after feeding and increasing rest,” says Emily K. Miller-Cushon, PhD, of the University of Florida Department of Animal Sciences, in a statement.

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Video: How Aurora Pharmaceutical Became a Leader in Animal Health

Dr. Michael Strobel, Founder and CEO of Aurora Pharmaceutical, discusses the company's remarkable journey from a veterinarian-led startup to a leading developer and manufacturer of animal health solutions.

In this exclusive interview, Dr. Strobel shares how Aurora Pharmaceutical was built around a simple but powerful mission: putting customers, producers, veterinarians, pet owners, and patients first. Learn how the company has grown by focusing on high-quality, science-backed, and cost-effective solutions for livestock, companion animals, and human health markets.

Discover how Aurora's commitment to innovation, affordability, and customer service continues to drive its expansion across swine, cattle, poultry, equine, companion animal, and human health sectors. Dr. Strobel also discusses the importance of understanding real-world challenges facing producers and veterinarians and how Aurora develops practical solutions that improve animal health while supporting producer profitability. Aurora's veterinarian-founded approach, commitment to American manufacturing, and focus on delivering value have helped establish the company as a trusted partner throughout the animal health industry.