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

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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Meet the Farmer: Derek Janzen of Alder West Farm

Video: Meet the Farmer: Derek Janzen of Alder West Farm

Derek Janzen is a life-long farmer. His parents bought the farm the year he was born, so egg farming has been in his blood since day one. Join Derek as he shows you around his enriched housing egg farm in Aldergrove, BC.