Saturday, April 19, 2014

Calf Cribs



12 comments:

  1. Never heard nor seen these. Where are the mommies?

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  2. same here, never seen and thus interesting

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  3. This is the first time I've ever seen this. Very interesting!

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  4. How unusual. Why are they not with their mothers?

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  5. I can explain what these calves are doing. They are new born dairy calves. If a cow doesn't give birth she doesn't lactate. After being born calves are with their mothers for only a few hours, enough time for the cow to clean them and to dry, but not to feed them. The cows are hand milked and the first milk, containing colostrum, is fed to the calves. They are put into these calf hutches where they can see each other and be fed milk replacer twice daily. The calf hutches keep them separated to keep them from transmitting diseases to which they are susceptible at this age. After two months they are moved into small groups, and after 14 to 16 months they are bred to start life as part of a dairy herd. Male calves are also raised, and sent to market.

    It is good to know where your food comes from. These small dairy farms are rare these days.

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  6. Very interesting TFG, have not heard this before. Those first two months must feel quite restrictive for the calves. especially if they aren't taken out for any exercise.

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  7. These are interesting pictures. I've never seen something like this :)

    I also want to thank you very much for your comment on my photoblog. I really appreciate that you've taken the time to visit and comment.
    I hope you will return soon to see more.


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  8. First time I see such things. Thank you for the explanation. You're right, It's good to know where food comes from..

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  9. I've never seen these either. Not sure if I'm comfortable with the idea of them being kept penned in like that. There is something to be said for being vegan, me thinks. Not that I am and you are right that we should be aware of where our food comes from.

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  10. I learn so much on your blog. I have lived a city and suburban life. There is so much about the food supply that is a deep mystery to me.

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  11. I have seen similar "housing" on a farm in New York. It makes me feel uncomfortable.

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  12. Well, I've learned something here, today! I hope they get to run free of their cages for some part of the day? or soon?

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