There are two main reasons why a calf is taken away from its mother shortly after birth. The quick removal reduces the weaning anxiety at a later age and speeds up the calf’s independent eating.
As well, doing this will break a disease cycle, so they calf will have a much smaller risk of getting sick. Both of these practices are safe for the calf and ensure it will have a great life on the farm in years to come.
Dairy farmers respect the laws on animal care. Abuse and negligence are not accepted in the industry. Dairy Farmers of Canada and the National Farm Animal Care Council have collaborated with scientists and government experts and the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies to update the Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Dairy Cattle. The Code meets or exceeds the majority of the standards of humane livestock treatment expected by the food industry and society.