![]() Exposed concrete, bare earth and mud are not acceptable. Bedding areas must be comfortable, clean and dry, with adequate ventilation but draft free at the calf level. Calf pens must be fit for purpose and well maintained.Calves that are not with their mothers must be provided with shelter so that they can stay warm and dry.Electric prodders must not be used on calves (MS17). Do not allow anyone to throw, hit or drag a calf at any time. Always handle calves gently and with care.All calves, including bobbies, must receive adequate fresh colostrum within the first 24 hours of life and should be fed colostrum, or a colostrum substitute, for at least the first four days of life.Heifers or bulls that reach target weights become productive animals and growing them well starts from the day they are born. Extra effort now will pay dividends throughout her life. ![]() To set a cow up for a productive life you must give her the best possible start. What is relevant is that spring is coming and you need to be prepared. There are a few changes as many of you will rear calves that are not dairy animals. In the interests of good calf rearing Ross has plagiarized the DairyNZ website linked to the “Codes of Animal Welfare”.
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