Studies Shed Light on the Positive Impact of Early Social Housing for Dairy Calves
Source: The DairyNews
Dairy industry professionals are gaining valuable insights into the welfare of dairy calves through two recent studies published in JDS Communications. These studies explore the impact of early social housing on behavior skills, personality traits, and overall success in the herd during the critical newborn and pre-weaned stages.
A pioneering study led by Dr. Marina A.G. von Keyserlingk and her team at the University of British Columbia focused on the competitive access to resources among preweaning dairy calves in paired housing. The study revealed that pair-housed calves exhibited enhanced competitive skills, including increased time spent drinking from a shared bottle and quicker approaches to the milk compared to individually housed calves. The findings emphasize the positive influence of early social housing on behavioral development.
Similarly, a study led by Dr. Emily Miller-Cushon and her team at the University of Florida examined the impact of group housing on dairy calf personality traits. The research, spanning four weeks from birth, indicated that calves housed in pairs displayed bolder traits in reaction to novel objects and unfamiliar calves compared to individually housed counterparts. The study underscores the potential of early-life social contact to shape personality traits in group-housed calves.
Both research teams advocate for further exploration of social housing benefits and its implications for management. While emphasizing the need for ongoing research, these studies provide crucial guidance on the positive outcomes of early socialization for dairy calves, promoting their overall well-being and success within the industry.
Similarly, a study led by Dr. Emily Miller-Cushon and her team at the University of Florida examined the impact of group housing on dairy calf personality traits. The research, spanning four weeks from birth, indicated that calves housed in pairs displayed bolder traits in reaction to novel objects and unfamiliar calves compared to individually housed counterparts. The study underscores the potential of early-life social contact to shape personality traits in group-housed calves.
Both research teams advocate for further exploration of social housing benefits and its implications for management. While emphasizing the need for ongoing research, these studies provide crucial guidance on the positive outcomes of early socialization for dairy calves, promoting their overall well-being and success within the industry.
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