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
