336 results on '"von Keyserlingk, M. A. G."'
Search Results
2. Animal Welfare Concerns and Values of Stakeholders Within the Dairy Industry
- Author
-
Ventura, B. A., von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., and Weary, D. M.
- Published
- 2015
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
3. Your happiness or mine: Influence of affective states and level of contact on public perceptions of elephant tourism.
- Author
-
Weston, M. E., Mills, K. E., and von Keyserlingk, M. A. G.
- Subjects
PUBLIC opinion ,ASIATIC elephant ,ELEPHANTS ,CAPTIVE wild animals ,ANIMAL welfare ,SEXUAL attraction - Abstract
Many captive Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) in Thailand participate in the tourism industry at attractions known as 'elephant camps.' There has been significant criticism of low welfare venues, where the elephants may experience injuries, poor nutrition, unnatural social environments and aversive handling. Despite increasing concern for animal welfare, the general public often have difficulty identifying the welfare issues affecting captive animals. The aim of this study was to investigate participants' willingness to support an elephant attraction and their perceived emotional value from the experience, based on the affective state of the captive elephant and their level of contact with it. Participants (n = 590) from the United States were randomly assigned to one of four vignettes (using a 2 × 2 experimental design) that described an elephant attraction, varying the affective state of the elephant (feels excellent, feels terrible) and the level of contact they could have with the elephant (low, high). A mixed methods approach was used, where participants provided answers to Likert-type questions, followed by an open-ended response. Participants showed greater willingness to support the elephant attraction and greater perceived emotional value from the experience when the elephant felt excellent, as opposed to when the elephant felt terrible. There were no significant differences between low and high contact for the measures included in this study. Qualitative responses varied greatly, with participants making many assumptions about the elephant and the attraction, revealing potential misconceptions that they had regarding the welfare of captive elephants. This research may be used to encourage a shift in tourism preferences to venues that reflect positive elephant welfare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2021
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
4. Bacterial concentrations in bedding and their association with dairy cow hygiene and milk quality.
- Author
-
Robles, I., Kelton, D. F., Barkema, H. W., Keefe, G. P., Roy, J. P., von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., and DeVries, T. J.
- Abstract
Comparison of bacterial counts (BCs) among common bedding types used for dairy cows, including straw, is needed. There is concern that the microbial content of organic bedding is elevated and presents risks for dairy cow udder health and milk quality. The objectives of this study were to investigate: (1) % DM and BCs (Streptococcus spp., all gram-negatives and specifically Klebsiella spp.) in different types of bedding sampled, and to investigate housing and farm management factors associated with % DM and BCs; (2) if bedding type was associated with hygiene of cow body parts (lower-legs, udder, upper-legs and flank) and housing and management factors associated with hygiene and (3) bedding types associated with higher BCs in cow milk at the farm level and bulk tank milk and management factors that were associated with highest BCs. Seventy farms (44 free-stall and 26 tie-stall) in Ontario, Canada were visited 3 times, 7 days apart from October 2014 to February 2015. At each visit, composite samples of unused and used bedding were collected for % DM determination and bacterial culture. Used bedding samples were collected from the back third of selected stalls. Data were analyzed using multivariable linear mixed models. Bedding classification for each farm were: new sand (n = 12), straw and other dry forage (n = 33), wood products (shavings, sawdust; n = 17) and recycled manure solids (RMSs)-compost, digestate (n = 8). In used bedding, across all bedding samples, sand was driest, compared to straw and wood, and RMS; higher % DM was associated with lower Streptococcus spp. count. Streptococcus spp. and all Gram-negative bacteria counts increased with increasing days since additional bedding was added. Gram-negative bacteria counts in used bedding varied with type: RMS = 16.3 ln colony-forming units (cfu)/mL, straw = 13.8 ln cfu/mL, new sand = 13.5 ln cfu/mL, and wood = 10.3 ln cfu/mL. Klebsiella spp. counts in used bedding were lower for wood products (5.9 ln cfu/mL) compared to all other bedding types. Mean cow SCC tended to be higher on farms with narrower stalls. Farms with mattress-based stalls had a higher prevalence of cows with dirty udders compared to those using a deep bedding system (often inorganic sand). Wider stalls were associated with lower bulk milk bacteria count. Lower % DM of used bedding was associated with higher bulk milk bacteria count. In conclusion, bedding management may have a profound impact on milk quality, bacterial concentrations in the bedding substrates, and cow hygiene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2020
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
5. Duration of recumbency and quality of nursing care of non-ambulatory cows affects the outcome of flotation therapy
- Author
-
Stojkov, J., Weary, D. M., and Von Keyserlingk, M. A. G.
- Subjects
Nursing care ,business.industry ,Anesthesia ,Animal welfare ,Warm water ,Medicine ,Non ambulatory ,business ,Lying ,Dairy cattle ,Physiological responses - Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of recumbency duration and nursing care provided to nonambulatory cows on the outcome of the flotation therapy, and to assess the physiological responses to stress related to the flotation therapy. Recumbent cows that are unable or unwilling to stand and remain in a lying position for ≥12 h are defined as non-ambulatory cows. Care and management of recumbent cattle is considered a major animal welfare concern, particularly in the dairy sector. Regardless of the primary cause, an extended period of recumbency initiates secondary damage to the muscles and nerve tissue, causing a condition described as secondary recumbency, which greatly hinders cows' ability to recover. Flotation therapy has gained interest as a means to promote recovery in non-ambulatory cows and is based on the concept that by floating the cow in warm water, secondary pressure damage to muscles and nerves will be reduced., American Association of Bovine Practitioners Proceedings of the Annual Conference, 2016
- Published
- 2016
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
6. Public concerns about dairy-cow welfare: how should the industry respond?
- Author
-
Weary, D. M., primary and von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., additional
- Published
- 2017
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
7. Invited review: Changes in the dairy industry affecting dairy cattle health and welfare
- Author
-
Barkema, H W, von Keyserlingk, M A G, Kastelic, J P, Lam, T J G M, Luby, C, Roy, J-P, LeBlanc, S J, Keefe, G P, Kelton, D F, LS GZ Landbouwhuisdieren, FAH AVM, and Applied Veterinary Research
- Subjects
herd size ,antimicrobials ,biosecurity ,automated milking system ,automated calf feeder - Abstract
The dairy industry in the developed world has undergone profound changes over recent decades. In this paper, we present an overview of some of the most important recent changes in the dairy industry that affect health and welfare of dairy cows, as well as the science associated with these changes. Additionally, knowledge gaps are identified where research is needed to guide the dairy industry through changes that are occurring now or that we expect will occur in the future. The number of farms has decreased considerably, whereas herd size has increased. As a result, an increasing number of dairy farms depend on hired (nonfamily) labor. Regular professional communication and establishment of farm-specific protocols are essential to minimize human errors and ensure consistency of practices. Average milk production per cow has increased, partly because of improvements in nutrition and management but also because of genetic selection for milk production. Adoption of new technologies (e.g., automated calf feeders, cow activity monitors, and automated milking systems) is accelerating. However, utilization of the data and action lists that these systems generate for health and welfare of livestock is still largely unrealized, and more training of dairy farmers, their employees, and their advisors is necessary. Concurrently, to remain competitive and to preserve their social license to operate, farmers are increasingly required to adopt increased standards for food safety and biosecurity, become less reliant on the use of antimicrobials and hormones, and provide assurances regarding animal welfare. Partly because of increasing herd size but also in response to animal welfare regulations in some countries, the proportion of dairy herds housed in tiestalls has decreased considerably. Although in some countries access to pasture is regulated, in countries that traditionally practiced seasonal grazing, fewer farmers let their dairy cows graze in the summer. The proportion of organic dairy farms has increased globally and, given the pressure to decrease the use of antimicrobials and hormones, conventional farms may be able to learn from well-managed organic farms. The possibilities of using milk for disease diagnostics and monitoring are considerable, and dairy herd improvement associations will continue to expand the number of tests offered to diagnose diseases and pregnancy. Genetic and genomic selection for increased resistance to disease offers substantial potential but requires collection of additional phenotypic data. There is every expectation that changes in the dairy industry will be further accentuated and additional novel technologies and different management practices will be adopted in the future.
- Published
- 2015
8. Early pair housing increases solid feed intake and weight gains in dairy calves
- Author
-
Costa, J. H. C., Meagher, R. K., von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., and Weary, D. M.
- Abstract
Dairy calves have traditionally been kept in individual pens throughout the milk-feeding period. Social rearing is associated with increased solid feed intake and hence higher weight gains before and after weaning. Little is known about the effect of the age at which social housing begins. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of early versus late pairing on feeding behavior and weight gain before and after weaning. Holstein bull calves were reared individually (n=8 calves), or paired with another calf at 6 ± 3 d (n=8 pairs) or 43 ± 3 d of age (n=8 pairs). All calves were fed 8 L of milk/d for 4 wk, 6 L/d from 4 to 7 wk and then milk was reduced by 20%/d until calves were completely weaned at 8 wk of age. Calves were provided ad libitum access to calf starter and a total mixed ration (TMR). Body weight and feed intake were measured weekly from 3 to 10 wk of age. Intake of calf starter was significantly higher for the early-paired calves than for individually-reared and late-paired calves throughout the experimental period. At 10 wk of age, starter dry matter intake (DMI) averaged 2.20 ± 0.22 kg/d, 1.09 ± 0.25 kg/d and 1.26 ± 0.33 kg/d for early pair, late pair and individually housed calves, respectively. Intake of TMR did not differ among treatments, TMR dry matter intake (averaged 3.27 ± 0.72 kg/d, 3.08 ± 0.46 kg/d, and 2.89 ± 0.54 kg/d for the same three treatments). Calves in the early pair treatment also showed significantly higher average daily gain (ADG) over the experimental period (0.89 ± 0.04 kg/d versus 0.76 ± 0.04 kg/d and 0.73 ± 0.04 kg/d for the early paired, individual and late-paired calves, respectively). These results indicate that social housing soon after birth can increase weight gains and intake of solid feed.
- Published
- 2015
9. INVITED REVIEW: Farm size and animal welfare1
- Author
-
Robbins, J. A., primary, von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., additional, Fraser, D., additional, and Weary, D. M., additional
- Published
- 2016
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
10. Review: Individual variability in feeding behaviour of domesticated ruminants.
- Author
-
Neave, H. W., Weary, D. M., von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., Cassar-Malek, Isabelle, Baumont, René, Bannink, Andre, Teixeira, Izabelle, Mayberry, Dianne, and Kyriazakis, Ilias
- Abstract
Individual animals behave differently from one another, especially when confronting challenges such as changes in diet (e.g. weaning), environment (e.g. moving from pasture to feedlot) and social grouping (e.g. movement to lactating group after parturition). Each of these challenges involves some element of novelty, impacting the welfare and productivity of the animal. Indeed, the large individual variability in the development and expression of feeding behaviour cannot be fully explained by differences in genetics, management practices, body size or growth rate. In this review we outline evidence that individual variability in feeding behaviour is associated with the personality of the individual. We focus on three key personality traits: exploration, fear or reactivity and sociability. Individuals differ in how much they explore their feeding environment, with more exploratory individuals being less reactive to novel situations. Feeding behaviour can be impaired in individuals that are especially reactive to a change in their environment, change in diet or handling or restraint by humans. The social environment is also a major factor affecting how individuals express their behaviour. Sociability of the individual, including dominant-subordinate and affiliative relationships, affects how individuals make foraging decisions, gain access to feed and adopt particular social strategies to maintain or adjust feeding patterns when the social environment changes. Personality traits such as exploration, boldness and sociability also affect the use of social information when learning where, how or what to eat. Our review highlights the implications of feeding behaviour variability for the welfare and productivity of the individual, and how an understanding of personality can help tailor management to the needs of the individual. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2018
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
11. Producer concern and prevalence of subclinical intramammary infections between lactations on 10 dairy goat farms in Ontario, Canada
- Author
-
Zobel, G., Leslie, K., Weary, D., and Von Keyserlingk, M. A. G.
- Subjects
Animal science ,medicine.anatomical_structure ,Infection prevalence ,Lactation ,Herd ,medicine ,Biology ,Milk production ,Somatic cell count ,Milking ,Subclinical infection ,Ontario canada - Abstract
For many dairy goat producers, a key deciding factor for keeping does in the herd is the animal’s ability to maintain milk production. Subclinical intramammary infections (IMIs) are known to decrease milk production in does by as much as 20% (Contreras et al, Livest Prod Sci, 2003). Somatic cell count (SCC) is a reliable and inexpensive predictor of infection in dairy cows; however, this measure is highly variable in goats depending on factors such milk production, stage of lactation, and estrus activity (Leitner et al, J Dairy Sci, 2004; Paape et al, Small Rumin Res, 2007; Persson et al, Small Rumin Res, 2014), making identification of infected glands by SCC level problematic. Thus, it is likely that producers underestimate infection prevalence on their farms. While IMIs are possible throughout lactation, the highest risk period for infection is when does are transitioning from one lactation to the next. On many farms, goats are dried-off (i.e., milking is ceased) and during the dry period infections may go unchecked and new infections begin. In other situations, does are not dried-off between lactations. The aims of this study were 2-fold: 1) to assess the attitudes of the producers regarding IMIs on their farms, and 2) to determine the prevalence of these infections during the dry period., American Association of Bovine Practitioners Proceedings of the Annual Conference, 2014
- Published
- 2014
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
12. Lying behavior as an early predictor of ketosis in early lactation dairy goats
- Author
-
Zobel, G., Leslie, K., Weary, D., and Von Keyserlingk, M. A. G.
- Subjects
Ataxia ,business.industry ,media_common.quotation_subject ,Appetite ,Culling ,Disease ,medicine.disease ,Animal science ,medicine.anatomical_structure ,Lactation ,medicine ,Risk factor ,Ketosis ,medicine.symptom ,business ,Subclinical infection ,media_common - Abstract
Goats frequently have multiple foetuses, a known risk factor for negative energy balance prior to kidding (Brozos et al, Vet Clin North Am Food AnimPract, 2011). This state, coupled with increased energy demands of milk production, also increases the risk of ketosis after kidding. Ketosis is a serious metabolic condition that when left untreated can be fatal. Regardless of severity, ketosis has been shown to negatively affect milk production in dairy cows (Rajala-Schultz et al, J Dairy Sci, 1999). Unfortunately, in goats, this disease is typically only identified when does show clinical signs, and prognosis is poor. At subclinical levels, which frequently go undetected, reduced milk production likely leads to early culling. Clinical symptoms of ketosis include loss of appetite, ataxia, and general lack of mobility, including increased lying behavior (Andrews et al, Small Ruminant Res, 1996). In dairy cows, changes in lying behavior have been shown to be useful as early indicators of compromised health status (Weary et al, J Anim Sci, 2009). Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine whether lying behavior could be used as an early predictor of ketosis after kidding in dairy goats., American Association of Bovine Practitioners Proceedings of the Annual Conference, 2014
- Published
- 2014
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
13. Duration of recumbency and quality of nursing care of non-ambulatory cows affects the outcome of flotation therapy
- Author
-
Stojkov, J., primary, Weary, D. M., additional, and Von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., additional
- Published
- 2016
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
14. Invited review: Changes in the dairy industry affecting dairy cattle health and welfare
- Author
-
LS GZ Landbouwhuisdieren, FAH AVM, Applied Veterinary Research, Barkema, H W, von Keyserlingk, M A G, Kastelic, J P, Lam, T J G M, Luby, C, Roy, J-P, LeBlanc, S J, Keefe, G P, Kelton, D F, LS GZ Landbouwhuisdieren, FAH AVM, Applied Veterinary Research, Barkema, H W, von Keyserlingk, M A G, Kastelic, J P, Lam, T J G M, Luby, C, Roy, J-P, LeBlanc, S J, Keefe, G P, and Kelton, D F
- Published
- 2015
15. Restricting the ability of sows to move: a source of concern for some Brazilians.
- Author
-
Yunes, M. C., von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., and Hötzel, M. J.
- Subjects
SOWS ,ANIMAL housing ,PREGNANCY in animals ,SWINE ,DWELLINGS - Abstract
Gestation stall housing for pregnant sows (Sus scrofaj has been, or is being phased out in many parts of the world in response to public criticism. However, in Brazil, one of the largest global producers and exporters of pork, gestation stall housing is still common. The objective of this study was to explore the views of Brazilians, including participants associated (ALP) or not with livestock production (NotALP), on gestation stall housing. Participants were provided the option of accessing a short text describing the housing system and a video of pregnant sows housed in either individual or group housing. Participants (ALP; n = 176, NotALP; n = 173) were asked to state their position on housing pregnant sows in individual stalls and to provide the reason(s) justifying their position. More NotALP (87%) participants than ALP (69%) participants rejected individual stalls. More participants (85%) that accessed the optional information rejected the stalls than those (71%) that did not Qualitative analyses revealed that animal welfare, most often in reference to animal sentience, freedom of movement and ethics, was the main justification given for rejecting gestation stalls. Those in favour of individual stalls justified their position with statements such as improved production, handling and animal health, and reduced aggression. This qualitative, exploratory study, based on a convenience sample of participants, does not represent the views o f Brazilian society; however, it identified some shared values between participants associated with livestock production and those that are not Our findings highlight that opposition to gestation stalls for sows reflects an ethical position regarding the treatment of livestock and should not be interpreted os support for group housing in confined systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2018
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
16. Peripartum haptoglobinemia identifies dairy cows at risk for retained placenta and metritis
- Author
-
Dubuc, J., Von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., and LeBlanc, S. J.
- Subjects
business.industry ,Physiology ,Peritonitis ,medicine.disease ,Mastitis ,medicine.anatomical_structure ,Retained placenta ,Placenta ,medicine ,Endometritis ,Metritis ,business ,reproductive and urinary physiology ,Dairy cattle ,Postpartum period - Abstract
Haptoglobin is an acute phase protein produced primarily in the liver in response to proinflammatory cytokines. Increased haptoglobinemia has been associated with several diseases in dairy cattle including mastitis, peritonitis, metritis, endometritis, and pneumonia. Retained placenta and metritis are postpartum uterine conditions that affect up to 15% and 20% of cows, respectively. Although conflicting data are reported on the direct detrimental impact of retained placenta and metritis on subsequent reproduction, these conditions have been associated with increased odds of endometritis and delayed ovulation later in the postpartum period, which may impair reproductive performance. Prediction of risk or early diagnosis ofretained placenta or metritis could be used to reduce their impacts. The objective of this study was to determine whether peripartum haptoglobinemia can be used to predict retained placenta and metritis in dairy cows., American Association of Bovine Practitioners Proceedings of the Annual Conference, 2012
- Published
- 2012
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
17. Access to pasture for dairy cows: Responses from an online engagement
- Author
-
Schuppli, C. A., primary, von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., additional, and Weary, D. M., additional
- Published
- 2014
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
18. Feeding Behavior Identifies Cows at Risk for Metritis
- Author
-
Huzzey, J. M., Urton, G., Weary, D. M., and Von Keyserlingk, M. A. G.
- Subjects
Feeding behavior ,Infectious disease (medical specialty) ,business.industry ,Environmental health ,Feedlot ,medicine ,Ice calving ,Disease ,Culling ,Metritis ,Herd health ,medicine.disease ,business - Abstract
Identification of sick animals is a key component of any dairy herd health program. Metritis, one common disease following calving, can be a costly disease to producers. These costs are incurred by increased days open, lower first-service conception, more inseminations, and failure to become pregnant, leading to involuntary culling. Clearly, an improved ability to identify or predict metritis will help avoid these costs by aiding prevention and early treatment. Previous research has indicated that cows with lower feed intakes are more likely to be diagnosed with metabolic and infectious diseases during the transition period. However, changes in feed intake must ultimately result from changes in feeding behavior. Moreover, feeding behavior has been shown to predict morbidity in feedlot steers and may be similarly useful for prediction of disease in transition dairy cows. There is little opportunity to monitor individual feed intake on commercial farms due to prohibitive costs; however, electronic monitoring of feeding behavior shows greater promise for commercial application. This paper will present and discuss studies conducted by our research group that provide evidence that changes in prepartum feeding behavior can be used to identify cows at risk of postpartum metritis., American Association of Bovine Practitioners Proceedings of the Annual Conference, 2006
- Published
- 2006
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
19. Benchmarking passive transfer of immunity and growth in dairy calves.
- Author
-
Atkinson, D. J., von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., and Weary, D. M.
- Subjects
- *
BENCHMARKING (Management) , *IMMUNITY , *DAIRY cattle genetics , *BEHAVIOR modification , *DAIRY cattle feeding & feeds - Abstract
Poor health and growth in young dairy calves can have lasting effects on their development and future production. This study benchmarked calf-rearing outcomes in a cohort of Canadian dairy farms, reported these findings back to producers and their veterinarians, and documented the results. A total of 18 Holstein dairy farms were recruited, all in British Columbia. Blood samples were collected from calves aged 1 to 7 d. We estimated serum total protein levels using digital refractometry, and failure of passive transfer (FPT) was defined as values below 5.2 g/dL. We estimated average daily gain (ADG) for preweaned heifers (1 to 70 d old) using heart-girth tape measurements, and analyzed early (≤35 d) and late (>35 d) growth separately. At first assessment, the average farm FPT rate was 16%. Overall, ADG was 0.68 kg/d, with early and late growth rates of 0.51 and 0.90 kg/d, respectively. Following delivery of the benchmark reports, all participants volunteered to undergo a second assessment. The majority (83%) made at least 1 change in their colostrum-management or milk-feeding practices, including increased colostrum at first feeding, reduced time to first colostrum, and increased initial and maximum daily milk allowances. The farms that made these changes experienced improved outcomes. On the 11 farms that made changes to improve colostrum feeding, the rate of FPT declined from 21 ± 10% before benchmarking to 11 ± 10% after making the changes. On the 10 farms that made changes to improve calf growth, ADG improved from 0.66 ± 0.09 kg/d before benchmarking to 0.72 ± 0.08 kg/d after making the management changes. Increases in ADG were greatest in the early milk-feeding period, averaging 0.13 kg/d higher than pre-benchmarking values for calves ≤35 d of age. Benchmarking specific outcomes associated with calf rearing can motivate producer engagement in calf care, leading to improved outcomes for calves on farms that apply relevant management changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2017
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
20. Animal Welfare Concerns and Values of Stakeholders Within the Dairy Industry
- Author
-
Ventura, B. A., primary, von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., additional, and Weary, D. M., additional
- Published
- 2014
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
21. Producer concern and prevalence of subclinical intramammary infections between lactations on 10 dairy goat farms in Ontario, Canada
- Author
-
Zobel, G., primary, Leslie, K., additional, Weary, D., additional, and Von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., additional
- Published
- 2014
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
22. Lying behavior as an early predictor of ketosis in early lactation dairy goats
- Author
-
Zobel, G., primary, Leslie, K., additional, Weary, D., additional, and Von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., additional
- Published
- 2014
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
23. Maternal isolation behavior of Holstein dairy cows kept indoors1
- Author
-
Proudfoot, K. L., primary, Weary, D. M., additional, and von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., additional
- Published
- 2014
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
24. Invited review: Sustainability of the US dairy industry
- Author
-
von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., Martin, N. P., Kebreab, E., Knowlton, K. F., Grant, R.J., Stephenson, M., II, Sniffen, C.J., Harner, J.P., III, Wright, A.D., Smith, S.I., von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., Martin, N. P., Kebreab, E., Knowlton, K. F., Grant, R.J., Stephenson, M., II, Sniffen, C.J., Harner, J.P., III, Wright, A.D., and Smith, S.I.
- Abstract
The US dairy industry has realized tremendous improvements in efficiencies and milk production since the 1940s. During this time, farm and total cow numbers have decreased and average herd size has increased. This intensification, combined with the shift to a largely urban public, has resulted in increased scrutiny of the dairy industry by social and environmental movements and increased concern regarding the dairy industry’s sustainability. In response to these concerns, a group of scientists specializing in animal welfare, nutrient management, greenhouse gas emissions, animal science, agronomy, agricultural engineering, microbiology, and economics undertook a critical review of the US dairy industry. Although the US dairy system was identified as having significant strengths, the consensus was that the current structure of the industry lacks the resilience to adapt to changing social and environmental landscapes. We identified several factors affecting the sustainability of the US dairy industry, including climate change, rapid scientific and technological innovation, globalization, integration of societal values, and multidisciplinary research initiatives. Specific challenges include the westward migration of milk production in the United States (which is at odds with projected reductions in precipitation and associated limitations in water availability for cattle and crops), and the growing divide between industry practices and public perceptions, resulting in less public trust. Addressing these issues will require improved alignment between industry practices and societal values, based upon leadership from within the industry and sustained engagement with other interested participants, including researchers, consumers, and the general public.
- Published
- 2013
25. Feeding a higher forage diet prepartum decreases incidences of subclinical ketosis in transition dairy cows1
- Author
-
Vickers, L. A., primary, Weary, D. M., additional, Veira, D. M., additional, and von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., additional
- Published
- 2013
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
26. Behaviour, illness and management during the periparturient period in dairy cows
- Author
-
Sepúlveda-Varas, P., primary, Huzzey, J. M., additional, Weary, D. M., additional, and von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., additional
- Published
- 2013
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
27. Invited review: Effects of group housing of dairy calves on behavior, cognition, performance, and health.
- Author
-
Costa, J. H. C., von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., and Weary, D. M.
- Subjects
- *
DAIRY cattle behavior , *CALVES , *SOCIAL isolation , *HEIFERS , *ANIMAL young , *ANIMAL health - Abstract
Standard practice in the dairy industry is to separate the calf and dam immediately after birth and raise calves in individual pens during the milk-feeding period. In nature and in extensive beef systems, the young calf lives in a complex social environment. Social isolation during infancy has been associated with negative effects, including abnormal behavior and developmental problems, in a range of species. Here, we review empirical work on the social development of calves and the effects of social isolation in calves and other species; this evidence indicates that calves reared in isolation have deficient social skills, difficulties in coping with novel situations, as well as specific cognitive deficits. We also review the practices associated with group housing of dairy calves, and discuss problems and suggested solutions, especially related to cross-sucking, competition, aggression, and disease. The studies reviewed indicate that social housing improves solid feed intakes and calf weight gains before and after calves are weaned from milk to solid feed. Evidence regarding the effects of social housing on calf health is mixed, with some studies showing increased risk of disease and other studies showing no difference or even improved health outcomes for grouped calves. We conclude that there is strong and consistent evidence of behavioral and developmental harm associated with individual housing in dairy calves, that social housing improves intakes and weight gains, and that health risks associated with grouping can be mitigated with appropriate management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2016
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
28. Invited review: Changes in the dairy industry affecting dairy cattle health and welfare.
- Author
-
Barkema, H. W., von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., Kastelic, J. P., Lam, T. J. G. M., Luby, C., Roy, J.-P., LeBlanc, S. J., Keefe, G. P., and Kelton, D. F.
- Subjects
- *
DAIRY industry research , *HEALTH of cattle , *CATTLE nutrition , *ANIMAL health , *ANIMAL nutrition - Abstract
The dairy industry in the developed world has undergone profound changes over recent decades. In this paper, we present an overview of some of the most important recent changes in the dairy industry that affect health and welfare of dairy cows, as well as the science associated with these changes. Additionally, knowledge gaps are identified where research is needed to guide the dairy industry through changes that are occurring now or that we expect will occur in the future. The number of farms has decreased considerably, whereas herd size has increased. As a result, an increasing number of dairy farms depend on hired (nonfamily) labor. Regular professional communication and establishment of farm-specific protocols are essential to minimize human errors and ensure consistency of practices. Average milk production per cow has increased, partly because of improvements in nutrition and management but also because of genetic selection for milk production. Adoption of new technologies (e.g., automated calf feeders, cow activity monitors, and automated milking systems) is accelerating. However, utilization of the data and action lists that these systems generate for health and welfare of livestock is still largely unrealized, and more training of dairy farmers, their employees, and their advisors is necessary. Concurrently, to remain competitive and to preserve their social license to operate, farmers are increasingly required to adopt increased standards for food safety and biosecurity, become less reliant on the use of antimicrobials and hormones, and provide assurances regarding animal welfare. Partly because of increasing herd size but also in response to animal welfare regulations in some countries, the proportion of dairy herds housed in tiestalls has decreased considerably. Although in some countries access to pasture is regulated, in countries that traditionally practiced seasonal grazing, fewer farmers let their dairy cows graze in the summer. The proportion of organic dairy farms has increased globally and, given the pressure to decrease the use of antimicrobials and hormones, conventional farms may be able to learn from well-managed organic farms. The possibilities of using milk for disease diagnostics and monitoring are considerable, and dairy herd improvement associations will continue to expand the number of tests offered to diagnose diseases and pregnancy. Genetic and genomic selection for increased resistance to disease offers substantial potential but requires collection of additional phenotypic data. There is every expectation that changes in the dairy industry will be further accentuated and additional novel technologies and different management practices will be adopted in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2015
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
29. Among farm variation in heifer BW gains.
- Author
-
Bond, G. B., von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., Chapinal, N., Pajor, E. A., and Weary, D. M.
- Abstract
BW of replacement heifers is rarely measured on commercial farms, making it difficult to evaluate the success of management practices related to calf growth. Our aims were to describe variability among commercial farms in Holstein heifer BW, determine how BW differences varied with management and propose a method of estimating calf growth based upon single measurement. Heart girth circumference was used to estimate BW of 576 heifers 48 to 70 weeks of age on 33 different farms (on average 11±6 heifers/farm) in British Columbia, Canada. Regression analysis showed a linear relationship of BW with age (BW (kg)=116+5×age (weeks)). Residuals from this regression were averaged across heifers within each farm to identify farms where heifers were heavier or lighter than would be predicted on the basis of their age; farm average residuals ranged from −54 to 72 kg. Farms with heifers showing the highest residual BW also had the highest rates of gain for pre-weaned calves. These results indicate that farms able to rear faster growing calves before weaning were also rearing faster growing heifers at breeding, and suggest that management of milk-fed calves is a particularly important component of replacement heifer management. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]
- Published
- 2015
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
30. Peripartum haptoglobinemia identifies dairy cows at risk for retained placenta and metritis
- Author
-
Dubuc, J., primary, Von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., additional, and LeBlanc, S. J., additional
- Published
- 2012
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
31. Tail docking dairy cattle: Responses from an online engagement1
- Author
-
Weary, D. M., primary, Schuppli, C. A., additional, and von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., additional
- Published
- 2011
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
32. BOARD-INVITED REVIEW: Using behavior to predict and identify ill health in animals1
- Author
-
Weary, D. M., primary, Huzzey, J. M., additional, and von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., additional
- Published
- 2009
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
33. Effect of neck injection and handler visibility on behavioral reactivity of beef steers1
- Author
-
Müller, R., primary, Schwartzkopf-Genswein, K. S., additional, Shah, M. A., additional, and von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., additional
- Published
- 2008
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
34. Assessment of visceral pain associated with metritis in dairy cows.
- Author
-
Stojkov, J., von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., Marchant-Forde, J. N., and Weary, D. M.
- Subjects
- *
DAIRY cattle , *LIVESTOCK diseases , *VISCERAL pain , *PALPATION , *VETERINARY medicine , *LAMENESS in animals - Abstract
Metritis is a common disease in dairy cattle, but to our knowledge, no work has assessed pain associated with this disease. Tissue palpation is commonly used to assess pain in human and veterinary medicine. The objective of this study was to evaluate visceral pain responses during rectal palpation, with and without uterine palpation, in healthy cows and in cows diagnosed with metritis. A total of 49 Holstein dairy cows (mean ± standard deviation parity of 2.8 ± 1.8) were subjected to systematic health checks every 3 d after parturition for 21 d, scoring for vaginal discharge (0 to 4); 13 cows showed a discharge score ≥2 during at least 1 health check and were classified as metritic, whereas 29 cows were classified as healthy and showed no sign of this or any other disease (including mastitis and lameness). Back arch and heart rate variability before examination and during palpation were recorded using video and heart rate monitors. Back arch (cm²) on the day of diagnosis was greater in metritic versus healthy cows (1,034 ± 72 vs. 612 ± 48 cm²), and greater during rectal palpation with uterine palpation versus rectal palpation without uterine palpation (869 ± 45 vs. 777 ± 45 cm²). Heart rate frequency domain analysis showed that the low-frequency portion was higher in cows with metritis versus healthy cows (16.5 ± 1.2 vs. 12.9 ± 1.0). Time domain analysis showed that the standard deviation between normal to normal interbeat intervals and the root mean square of successive differences both decreased during rectal palpation with uterine palpation versus rectal palpation without uterine palpation (1.9 ± 0.1 vs. 2.5 ± 0.1 and 1.3 ± 0.1 vs. 1.7 ± 0.1, respectively). Together, these results indicate that the inflammation associated with metritis is painful, and that the pain response can be detected during rectal palpation with and without uterine palpation. Rectal palpation with uterine palpation appears to be more aversive than rectal palpation without uterine palpation, suggesting that the former should be avoided when possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2015
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
35. Feeding Behavior Identifies Cows at Risk for Metritis
- Author
-
Huzzey, J. M., primary, Urton, G., additional, Weary, D. M., additional, and Von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., additional
- Published
- 2006
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
36. Differential effects of sodium and magnesium sulfate on water consumption by beef cattle1,2
- Author
-
Grout, A. S., primary, Veira, D. M., additional, Weary, D. M., additional, von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., additional, and Fraser, D., additional
- Published
- 2006
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
37. Effects of feeding anionic products to non-lactating dairy cows on urine pH
- Author
-
Beauchemin, K. A., primary, Bowman, G. R., additional, Rode, L. M., additional, and von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., additional
- Published
- 2003
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
38. Effects of particle size and moisture levels in mixed rations on the feeding behavior of dairy heifers.
- Author
-
Khan, M. A., Bach, A., Castells, Ll., Weary, D. M., and von Keyserlingk, M. A. G.
- Abstract
Two experiments on replacement heifers (175±12 days of age) assessed the effects of forage particle length and moisture on feeding behavior. Both experiments used a replicated 3×3 Latin square design, with nine heifers per replication and three periods of 9 days each. Each group of nine heifers was housed in one pen with access to three electronic feed bins. In Experiment 1, hay chopped at different lengths was incorporated into three total mixed rations (TMR) all having the same ingredient and nutrient composition but differing in the percentage of long particles (>19 mm): 60% (Short), 64% (Medium) and 72% (Long). In Experiment 2, heifers were fed a TMR with the same ingredient and nutrient composition but differing in moisture content: 65% DM (Dry), 50% DM (Moderate), and 35% DM (Wet). In both experiments, feeding behavior during the last 5 days of each period was analyzed using a mixed model accounting for the fixed effects of treatment and period, and the random effects of replication and animal. In Experiment 1, dry matter intake (DMI) and eating rate (DMI/min) tended to increase, whereas daily eating time decreased as the feed particle size decreased. Heifers fed the Long diet selected in favor of long particles (>19 mm) and against Short (1.18 to 8 mm) and fine (<1.18 mm) particles; heifers fed the Short diet selected against long particles and in favor of short and fine particles. Heifers fed the Medium diet showed a preference for medium particles with no preference for the other particle sizes. In Experiment 2, heifers fed the Dry diet tended to consume more feed than those fed the Moderate and Wet diets, with no differences in feeding behavior or sorting activity. In conclusion the Medium diet minimized sorting without reducing eating rates and intake, and adding water to TMR to achieve a dry matter less than 65% tended to decrease DMI without reducing sorting. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]
- Published
- 2014
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
39. Reduced stocking density mitigates the negative effects of regrouping in dairy cattle.
- Author
-
Talebi, A., Von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., Telezhenko, E., and Weary, D. M.
- Subjects
- *
DAIRY cattle , *HOLSTEIN-Friesian cattle , *DAIRY cattle feeding & feeds , *COWS , *COMPETITION (Biology) , *MAMMALS , *ANIMAL health - Abstract
In freestall systems, cows are frequently moved among pens and regrouped. This practice involves mixing unfamiliar cows, and can result in changes in stocking density after regrouping. Both regrouping and changes in stocking density can affect cow welfare, but no study to date has assessed the combined effects. The aim of this study was to test if reductions in stocking density can mitigate the responses to regrouping. By manipulating group size (6 vs. 12 cows) and pen size (12 vs. 24 stalls), 3 different stocking densities were created (25, 50, and 100%). Four groups of Holstein cows were regrouped weekly for 4 wk and the stocking density changed at regrouping. The change in density varied as follows: a decrease by a factor of 4 (100 to 25%), a decrease by a factor of 2 (100 to 50% or 50 to 25%), no change (50 to 50%), an increase by a factor of 2 (25 to 50% or 50 to 100%), and an increase by a factor of 4 (25 to 100%). Displacements at the feeding area, feeding time, and lying time were scored. The daily means for each group were used to calculate the differences in responses from 1 d before to 1 d after each regrouping. The number of displacements at the feed bunk decreased and lying time increased when stocking density decreased at regrouping. In conclusion, increases in competitive behavior and the associated decrease in lying times can be mitigated by reducing stocking density when regrouping dairy cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2014
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
40. Short communication: Herd-level reproductive performance and its relationship with lameness and leg injuries in freestall dairy herds in the northeastern United States.
- Author
-
Chapinal, N., von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., Cerri, R. L. A., Ito, K., LeBlanc, S. J., and Weary, D. M.
- Subjects
- *
LAMENESS in cattle , *ARTIFICIAL insemination , *DAIRY cattle reproduction , *ANIMAL reproduction , *MILK yield - Abstract
The objectives of this study were to describe herdlevel reproductive outcomes and their associations with the prevalence of lameness, hock injuries and knee injuries in freestall dairy herds in the northeastern United States. Five reproductive outcomes (calving to conception interval, CCI; calving interval, CI; conception risk at the first artificial insemination, CR1; insemination rate, IR; and pregnancy rate, PR) were measured from Dairy Comp 305 (Valley Agricultural Software, Tulare, CA) for a 12-mo period for all multiparous cows in each of the 53 herds assessed. The prevalence of lameness, hock injuries, and knee injuries was assessed in 1 highproducing group. The means (± standard deviation) for the 5 reproductive outcomes were as follows: CCI = 128 ± 10 d, CI = 404 ± 10 d, CR1 = 36 ± 5%, IR = 60 ± 7%, and PR = 20 ± 3%. The average prevalence of clinical lameness, hock injuries, and knee injuries were 45 ± 20%, 58 ± 31%, and 16 ± 15%, respectively. Univariable associations between the reproductive outcomes and the prevalence of lameness and leg injuries were tested and significant predictors were submitted to a model that controlled for the confounding effects of herd size, 305-d mature equivalent milk production of the high-producing group, and use of deep bedding. A higher prevalence of lameness was associated with poorer reproductive performance, although the relationships were weak: herds with a higher prevalence of lameness had longer average CCI (slope estimate = 0.16 ± 0.07; R² = 0.09) and CI (slope estimate = 0.14 ± 0.07; R² = 0.07). These results indicate that management to reduce lameness may improve reproductive performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2013
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
41. Rumen dry matter and crude protein degradability of extracted or untreated oilseeds andLeucaena leucocephalaleaves
- Author
-
Gralak, M. A., primary, Kamalu, T., additional, Von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., additional, and Kulasek, G. W., additional
- Published
- 1997
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
42. Stakeholder views on treating pain due to dehorning dairy calves.
- Author
-
Robbins, J. A., Weary, D. M., Schuppli, C. A., and von Keyserlingk, M. A. G.
- Subjects
CALVES ,DEHORNING ,ANIMAL welfare ,SURGERY - Abstract
A common and painful management practice undertaken on most dairy farms is dehorning young calves (also called 'disbudding' when done on calves less than about two months of age). Despite much evidence the practice is painful, and effective means available to mitigate this pain, it is frequently performed without pain relief. The overall aim of this study was to describe different stakeholder views on the use of pain mitigation for disbudding and dehorning. Using an interactive, online platform, we asked participants whether or not they believed that calves should be disbudded and dehorned with pain relief and to provide reasons to support their choice. Participant composition was as follows: dairy producer or other farm worker (10%); veterinarian or other professional working with the dairy industry (7%); student, teacher or researcher (16%); animal advocate (9%); and no involvement with the dairy industry (57%). Of 354 participants, 90% thought pain relief should be provided when disbudding and dehorning. This support was consistent across all demographic categories suggesting the industry practice of disbudding and dehorning without pain control is not consistent with normative beliefs. The most common themes in participants' comments were: pain intensity and duration, concerns about drug use, cost, ease and practicality and availability of alternatives. Some of the participants' reasoning corresponded well with existing scientific evidence, but other reasons illustrated important misconceptions, indicating an urgent need for educational efforts targeted at dairy producers and dairy industry professionals advising these producers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2015
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
43. Views on contentious practices in dairy farming: The case of early cow-calf separation.
- Author
-
Ventura, B. A., von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., Schuppli, C. A., and Weary, D. M.
- Subjects
- *
DAIRY farming research , *DAIRY cattle breeding , *CALVES , *ANIMAL welfare , *HEALTH of food animals , *DAIRY farms - Abstract
The public has become increasingly interested in the welfare of food animals, but the food animal industries possess few mechanisms for public engagement. Here we present results from a web-based forum designed to allow stakeholders to share views on controversial issues in dairying. In response to the question "Should dairy calves be separated from the cow within the first few hours after birth?" participants were able to indicate "yes," "no," or "neutral" and either write a reason in support of their view or select reasons provided by other participants. Four independent groups of participants were recruited (a total of 163 people); 31% said they had no involvement in the dairy industry; the remaining 69% (with some involvement in the industry) were students or teachers (33%), animal advocates (13%), producers (11%), veterinarians (9%) and other dairy industry professionals (3%). Overall, little consensus existed among participants across groups; 44% chose "yes," 48% "no," and 9% "neutral." Responses varied with demographics, with opposition to early separation higher among females, animal advocates, and those with no involvement with the dairy industry. A fifth group was recruited at a dairy industry conference (an additional 28 participants); 46% chose "yes," 32% "no," and 21% "neutral." Across all 5 groups, opponents and supporters often referenced similar issues in the reasons they provided. Opponents of early separation contended that it is emotionally stressful for the calf and cow, it compromises calf and cow health, it is unnatural, and the industry can and should accommodate cow-calf pairs. In contrast, supporters of early separation reasoned that emotional distress is minimized by separating before bonds develop, that it promotes calf and cow health, and that the industry is limited in its ability to accommodate cow-calf pairs. These results illustrate the potential of web-based forums to identify areas of agreement and conflict among stakeholders, providing a basis for the development of practices that address shared concerns. Key words: animal welfare, producer attitude, maternal filial bond, public engagement [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2013
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
44. Benchmarking cow comfort on North American freestall dairies: Lameness, leg injuries, lying time, facility design, and management for high-producing Holstein dairy cows.
- Author
-
Von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., Barrientos, A., Ito, K., Galo, E., and Weary, D. M.
- Subjects
- *
DAIRY products , *LAMENESS in cattle , *DAIRY cattle , *FARM management - Abstract
In this paper, we describe a novel approach to corporate involvement in on-farm assessment, driven by the desire to provide a service for dairy producers and to create a vehicle for engagement on issues of dairy cow welfare. This program provides producers with feedback on animal-based (including gait score, leg injuries, and lying time) and facility-based (including freestall design, bedding practices, feed bunk design and management, and stocking density) measures that can be used to better address their management goals. The aim of this paper is to describe variation in the prevalence of lameness and leg injuries, lying behavior, facility design, and management practices for high-producing cows on freestall dairy farms in 3 regions of North America: British Columbia (BC; n = 42); California (CA; n = 39); and the northeastern United States (NE-US; n = 40). Prevalence of clinical lameness averaged (mean ± SD) 27.9 ± 14.1% in BC, 30.8 ± 15.5% in CA, and 54.8 ± 16.7% in NE-US; prevalence of severe lameness averaged 7.1 ± 5.4% in BC, 3.6 ± 4.2% in CA, and 8.2 ± 5.6% in NE-US. Overall prevalence of hock injuries was 42.3 ± 26.2% in BC, 56.2 ± 21.6% in CA, and 81.2 ± 22.5% in NE-US; prevalence of severe injuries was 3.7 ± 5.2% in BC, 1.8 ± 3.1% in CA, 5.4 ± 5.9% in NE-US. Prevalence of swollen knees was minimal in CA (0.3 ± 0.6%) but high (23.1 ± 16.3%) in NE-US (not scored in BC). Lying times were similar across regions (11.0 ± 0.7 h/d in BC, 10.4 ± 0.8 h/d in CA, 10.6 ± 0.9 h/d in NE-US), but individual lying times among cows assessed varied (4.2 to 19.5 h/d, 3.7 to 17.5 h/d, and 2.8 to 20.5 h/d in BC, CA, and NE-US, respectively). These results showed considerable variation in lameness and leg injury prevalence as well as facility design and management among freestall farms in North America. Each of the 3 regions had farms with a very low prevalence of lameness and injuries, suggesting great opportunities for improvement on other farms within the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2012
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
45. Presence of an older weaned companion influences feeding behavior and improves performance of dairy calves before and after weaning from milk.
- Author
-
De Paula Vieira, A., Von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., and Weary, D. M.
- Subjects
- *
CATTLE feeding & feeds , *CALVES , *CATTLE nutrition , *MILKING , *CATTLE parturition , *CATTLE housing , *SOCIAL learning - Abstract
In commercial dairy production, calves are typically separated from the dam at a young age. This practice may interfere with developmental processes mediated by social interactions that occur between the calf, her dam, and older social partners. The aim of this study was to test the prediction that calves housed with an older weaned companion would show earlier intake of solid feed before weaning and higher growth rates during and after weaning compared with calves housed with calves of their own age. Forty-five dairy calves were separated from their dams and housed individually for approximately 7 d. Afterward, calves were assigned to pens composed of groups of either 3 young calves or 2 young calves and an older weaned calf. Group pens were equipped with automatic milk, water, starter, hay feeders, and scales. Weaning was by gradual reduction of milk volume over 5 d, from d 36 to d 40. During the preweaning period (d 1 to d 35), the number (8.8 vs. 5.1 ± 0.5 visits/d per calf) and duration (13.2 vs. 8.2 ± 1.1 min/d per calf) of visits to the hay feeder was higher for calves housed with an older companion, and calves in this treatment consumed more hay (57.9 vs. 25.6 ± 4.7 g/d) than did calves housed in groups of similar age. Starter intake did not differ between treatments before weaning, but the number of visits (15.2 vs. 9.4 ± 0.6 visits/d) and the time spent at the starter feeder (6.5 vs. 3.4 ± 0.5 min/d) were higher for calves housed with an older weaned companion. During the weaning period (d 36 to d 40), calves housed with an older companion spent more time at the starter feeder (22.1 vs. 12.9 ± 1.9 min/d) and made fewer unrewarded visits to the milk feeder (17.0 vs. 26.1 ± 1.9 visits/d) than did calves housed in groups of similar age. During the postweaning period (d 41 to d 55), calves housed with an older weaned companion spent less time at the hay feeder (32.5 vs. 58.5 ± 5.5 min/d) and more time at the starter feeder (41.4 vs. 28.2 ± 3.7 min/d), and consumed more starter (1.8 vs. 1.3 ± 0.1 kg/d). Calves housed with an older weaned companion gained more weight during the preweaning (0.89 vs. 0.76 ± 0.03 kg/d) and postweaning (1.4 vs. 1.1 ± 0.05 kg/d) periods. We conclude that housing young calves with an older weaned companion stimulates feeding behavior and growth before and after weaning from milk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2012
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
46. Effect of pen size, group size, and stocking density on activity in freestall-housed dairy cows.
- Author
-
Telezhenko, E., Von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., Talebi, A., and Weary, D. M.
- Subjects
- *
CATTLE physiology , *COWS , *LOCOMOTION , *EXERCISE , *VIDEOS - Abstract
The purpose was to determine the effects of the physical dimensions of the pen and group size and stocking density on cow activity. Cows (randomly assigned to 4 groups of 6 animals each) were tested in pens with 24 or 12 lying places and in groups with 12 or 6 cows. All groups were tested in each of the 4 treatments with treatment order allocated using a 4 x 4 Latin square. The distance moved and the number of movements were calculated using 5-min scan sampling of video recordings over a 48-h period. Time spent lying down, number of lying bouts, and the duration of each lying bout were recorded using activity sensors. Displacements at the feed bunk were assessed by continuous analysis of video for 3 h after the delivery of the fresh feed in the afternoon. Cows moved greater distances when kept in a large versus small pens (330.2 vs. 270.1 ± 11.6 m/d; mean ± SE), irrespective of group size. Cows moved more often when kept in the larger pen (21.3 vs. 19.2 ± 0.63% of scans). The time spent lying down decreased when density increased (59.1 vs. 55.8 ± 2.3% of scans at 25% and 100% stocking, respectively). Treatment had no effect on the number of displacements at the feed bunk. Physical dimensions of the pen play an important role in how much cows move, and stocking density affects lying time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2012
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
47. Tail docking dairy cattle: Responses from an on-line engagement.
- Author
-
Weary, D. M., Schuppli, C. A., and von Keyserlingk, M. A. G.
- Subjects
DAIRY cattle ,ANIMAL welfare ,FARMERS' attitudes ,DAIRY farms - Abstract
Tail docking remains a common practice on dairy farms in the United States. This paper describes the results of an on-line engagement designed to create discussion on tail docking, to document the reasons participants put forward for and against the practice, and compare these reasons with the literature available on this topic. A total of 178 people responded; 30% were producers, 23% were veterinarians, 25% had no experience with the dairy industry and 22% included a mixture of teachers, students and industry professionals. Approximately 79% of participants were opposed to docking. Responses varied with participant demographics (e.g. females were more likely than males to oppose docking), but in every demographic sub-group (e.g. by gender, age, country of origin and dairy production experience) the majority of respondents were opposed to tail docking. Common reasons for opposition to docking included the lack of scientific evidence that docking improves cleanliness or udder health, that docking is painful for cows, that docking is unnatural and that tails are important for controlling flies. Some respondents in favor of docking cited cow cleanliness as an issue, despite the scientific evidence showing no positive effect of docking on cow cleanliness or udder health. Additional reasons included protecting producer safety. These results illustrate the range of reasons that are cited for supporting and opposing tail docking. This approach can be used to better target outreach efforts (e.g. improving farmer education on the lack of positive effects of docking on cleanliness and udder health while addressing concerns about producer safety). More generally, this type of on-line discussion provides a safe and productive format for discussions about contentious issues in the dairy industry and provides a mechanism for producers, industry professionals and the public to share perspectives on these topics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2011
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
48. Introducing heifers to freestall housing.
- Author
-
von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., Cunha, G. E., Fregonesi, J. A., and Weary, D. M.
- Subjects
- *
COWS , *DAIRY cattle feeding & feeds , *ANIMAL housing , *HEIFERS , *HOLSTEIN-Friesian cattle , *DAIRY farming , *ANIMAL welfare , *ANIMAL behavior , *BUILDING design & construction - Published
- 2011
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
49. Lying behavior as an indicator of lameness in dairy cows.
- Author
-
Ito, K., von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., LeBlanc, S. J., and Weary, D. M.
- Subjects
- *
LAMENESS in cattle , *DAIRY cattle behavior , *LYING down position , *RECEIVER operating characteristic curves , *DAIRY farms , *EQUIPMENT & supplies - Abstract
Lameness is widely recognized as one of the most serious welfare and production concerns in the dairy industry. Our objectives were to evaluate the associations between lying behavior and lameness, and to determine whether lying behavior can be used as a diagnostic tool for lameness. Electronic data loggers recorded lying behavior of 1,319 cows from 28 farms at 1-min intervals for 5 d. These cows were gait scored according to a 5-point Numerical Rating System (NRS), and categorized as NRS ⩽2, NRS = 3, or NRS = 4; no cow was scored as NRS = 5. Lameness was dichotomized twice: LAME (NRS ≥3) and SEVLAME (NRS = 4). Data were divided into 2 groups: 11 farms using deep-bedded stalls (DB) and 17 farms using mattress stalls (MAT). Differences in the daily lying time (h/d), frequency of lying bouts (n/d), duration of lying bouts (min/bout), and the standard deviation of bout duration (min/ bout) between LAME or SEVLAME cows and those that were not were tested using mixed models. Receiver operating characteristic curves were constructed to identify behavioral thresholds to distinguish SEVLAME cows from the rest. Odds ratios for SEVLAME were estimated using logistic regression. Overall, 28.5% of cows were LAME including 7.3% that were SEVLAME. The prevalence of SEVLAME was higher on MAT farms than on DB farms (9.3 ± 1.3 vs. 4.4 ± 1.2%, respectively). SEVLAME cows on DB farms spent 12.8 [confidence interval (CI): 12.0 to 13.7] h/d lying down compared with 11.2 (CI: 10.7 to 11.8) h/d for cows that were not SEVLAME. These cows had longer duration of lying bouts [95.3 (CI: 84.6 to 107.3) vs. 80.3 (CI: 74.9 to 86.1) min/bout] and greater SD of bout duration [44.4 (CI: 41.1 to 48.0) vs. 50.7 (CI: 44.1 to 58.3) min/bout]. There were no behavioral differences among lameness categories on MAT farms. Within DB farms, cows with lying times >14.5 h/d had 16.2 (5.8 to 45.2) times higher odds of being SEVLAME. Cows with average lying bouts >90 min/bout were at 3.0 (1.2 to 7.4) times higher odds of being SEVLAME, and cows with average SD of bout duration >55 min/bout were at 4.1 (1.7 to 9.9) times higher odds of being SEVLAME. These results show that high lying times, long lying bouts, and variability in the duration of lying bouts were associated with lameness, and that stall surface influenced the behavioral responses of lame cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2010
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
50. Effects of pair versus single housing on performance and behavior of dairy calves before and after weaning from milk.
- Author
-
De Paula Vieira, A., von Keyserlingk, M. A. G., and Weary, D. M.
- Subjects
- *
HOLSTEIN-Friesian cattle , *CATTLE parturition , *MILK yield , *DAIRY cattle , *DAIRY farms - Abstract
This experiment tested the effects of pair versus single housing on the performance and behavior of dairy calves before and after weaning. Twenty-seven Holstein calves were separated from the dam within 6h of birth, housed in individual pens for 4 d, and then assigned to either continued individual housing (n=9 calves) or pair housing (n=9 pairs). Calves had ad libitum access to starter, hay, and water via buckets. Pasteurized whole milk was fed via teat twice a day for 2h at ad libitum volumes until d 36. During the milk-feeding period, paired calves showed higher intakes of starter than did the individually housed calves (averaging 93 vs. 59±11 g/d per calf). Calves were weaned from milk from d 37 to 41 by progressive dilution of milk with water, and the teat was removed on d 49. Calves in both treatments vocalized in response to teat removal but this response was less in paired calves than in individually housed calves (84 vs. 194±12 calls/2-h period per calf on d 49). On d 56, calves were moved to group pens, mixed with other calves, and observed for 15 d. Starter, water, and hay were available ad libitum via automatic feeders. Compared with calves previously housed in single pens, paired calves had a shorter latency to start feeding (9.1±2.6 vs. 49.5±4.1 h/calf), visited the starter feeder more frequently (41.6±3.0 vs. 26.4±3.3 visits/d per calf), spent more time at the feeder (87.8±2.5 vs. 65.3±2.9 min/d per calf), and consumed more starter (3.4 vs. 2.3±0.2 kg/d per calf). Weight gains at mixing were higher for paired than for individually housed calves on d 2 and 3 after mixing (0.5 vs. -2.4±0.3 kg/d per calf; and 0.8 vs. -0.9±0.3 kg/d per calf, respectively). The results indicate that pair housing during the milk-feeding stage reduces calf responses to weaning and improves performance after weaning when calves are housed in groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2010
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
Catalog
Discovery Service for Jio Institute Digital Library
For full access to our library's resources, please sign in.