Dairy Cows

On The Farm

When calf rearing farms participate in the RSPCA Approved Farming Scheme they raise dairy calves in a higher welfare environment for either veal or beef. These are dairy calves that otherwise would have been an unwanted by-product of the dairy industry, also known as bobby calves.

Calves on RSPCA Approved farms have space to move, play and socialise. They enjoy a quality and nutritious diet, proper bedding and access to the outdoors from at least 8 weeks of age.

Have space to move, play and socialise

Enjoy a nutritious diet that encourages suckling and chewing behaviour

Can rest in comfortable bedding, with access to the outdoors once weaned

Are naturally hornless from polled breeding strategies, or have proper pain management if disbudded

Standards

The RSPCA Standard for dairy calves focus on ensuring good farming practices, handling, husbandry and management.

Note: Exemptions to specific standards on particular sites may be granted on rare occasions, but only where the RSPCA can see that animal welfare is not compromised.

What’s Happening

While there currently isn’t an RSPCA Approved dairy veal or beef product on the market, the RSPCA has been talking to farmers and industry contacts. Here’s how you can help:

CONTACT YOUR FAVOURITE BRANDS

and let them know that animal welfare is important to you

WRITE TO YOUR SUPERMARKET

and let them know that you are interested in veal and beef farmed to higher welfare standards