Methodological terminology and definitions for research and discussion of cow-calf contact systems

Due to increasing public concern regarding separation of the dairy cow and calf within the first days after birth, alternative systems, where cows and calves stay in contact for an extended period, are receiving increasing interest from a broad array of researchers and other stakeholders. With more research in the area, there is a risk of inconsistencies emerging in the use of terminology. To create a better consensus in further discussions, the aim of this Research Reflection is to provide definitions and propose a common terminology for cow-calf contact in dairy production. We also suggest definitions for various systems allowing cow-calf contact and describe the distinct phases of cow-calf contact systems. Due to increasing public concern regarding separation of the dairy cow and calf within the first days after birth, alternative systems, where cows and calves stay in contact for an extended period, are receiving increasing interest from a broad array of researchers and other stakeholders. With more research in the area, there is a risk of inconsistencies emerging in the use of terminology. To create a better consensus in further discussions, the aim of this Research Reflection is to provide definitions and propose a common terminology for cow-calf contact in dairy production. We also suggest definitions for various systems allowing cow-calf contact and describe the distinct phases of cow-calf contact systems.

Univ Kassel
Louis Bolk Inst
Università degli Studi della Basilicata
Humboldt Universität zu Berlin
Scotlands Rural College
Johann Heinrich von Thünen Institut
Norwegian University of Life Sciences
Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen
Veterinärmedizinische Universität Wien
Aarhus university
Veterinaerinstituttet
University of Basilicata
Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
Universitat Kassel
Norwegian Veterinary Institute
Scotland's Rural College