Cow Cuddling Emerges as a Vital Revenue Stream Amid Dairy Price Drops

With dairy prices continuing to fall across the United States and Europe, farmers are innovating by introducing cow cuddling as a part of their agritourism offerings. This novel service, which gained popularity during the pandemic, has become an essential source of income for many farms. For instance, Morningstar Dairy in Minnesota, owned by the Scherber family, offers 30-minute calf cuddling sessions, helping to maintain their farm's economic viability.

In the United Kingdom, Fiona Wilson saved her farm in Arram by converting her milking parlor into a dedicated cuddling area. Her farm provides a four-hour cuddling experience, priced at approximately $150, which now entirely replaces her previous income from milk sales.

The US dairy sector faces challenges from increased milk supply and reduced demand due to inflation. Christopher Wolf from Cornell University highlights that selective breeding has led to higher milk production, while tariffs and trade disputes have increased costs, squeezing profit margins.

At Sunset View Creamery in New York, co-owner Jessica May Hoffman offers 30-minute cuddling sessions for $15, which has helped counteract price declines since July. The service involves calves or specially trained adult cows, providing visitors with a therapeutic experience akin to a 'cow’s spa day,' as described by Wilson.