A Bull Crossed a Fence and Bred with 30 Jersey Cows
The dispute followed repeated incidents in which the bull broke through a fence separating the two properties. According to the dairy farmer, the animal entered the farm on several occasions and mated with the Jersey cows, making the episode a recurring event rather than a single escape.
The farmer reported reproductive and animal-health consequences after the crossings. One cow died while giving birth, while the resulting calves were said to have been larger than the usual Jersey standard. Veterinarians heard during the proceedings said that breeding animals from different breeds can be associated with miscarriages, difficult deliveries, retained placentas and changes to the females’ reproductive cycles.
The claim also covered the herd’s productive performance. The dairy farmer submitted invoices to document a reduction in the animals’ milk-producing capacity after the crossings. The case therefore included claims relating both to harm involving the cattle and to a decline in the farm’s dairy output.
The bull’s owner denied that the allegations had been adequately proven. During the proceedings, he described the matter as “mere annoyances” connected with cattle farming. The court rejected that position and found sufficient evidence to establish the owner’s civil liability.
In reviewing the appeal, Judge Ricardo Fontes cited photographs, an incident report and witness testimony concerning the animal’s entry onto the property and its breeding with the neighbour’s cows. The invoices were also considered in assessing the financial effect on the dairy operation. The 5th Civil Chamber unanimously maintained the owner’s conviction.
The court set moral damages at R$10,000, reducing the amount fixed by the first-instance court. Material damages were also recognised, but their precise value will be calculated during the liquidation stage of the judgment. The decision preserved the farmer’s right to reimbursement for losses already supported by the invoices filed in the case.
