As the dairy industry faces a likely income squeeze for the next three years farmers are being urged not to lose sight of livestock welfare priorities while they battle to stay profitable.
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Continuing regulatory and media scrutiny of animal welfare practices across Australia and in export markets provide sobering reasons for individual action by livestock producers, says industry body Dairy Connect.
Dairy Connect’s farmers group has just endorsed national industry guidelines drawn up by Dairy Australia, Australian Dairy Farmers (ADF) and Australian Dairy Industry Council in consultation with animal welfare lobbyists.
It is recommending the guidelines to all dairy farmers.
Opponents of farming of animals were well funded, highly strategic, determined and “well-networked with sections of the media anxious for startling video tape of welfare infringements”, said Dairy Connect chief executive officer Shaughn Morgan.
“In this context, the business of animal welfare is the business of all livestock producers, including dairy farmers who continue to need to manage issues related to the transport and dispatch of bobby calves.”
ADF animal welfare committee member and Dairy Connects’ farmers group representative, Terry Toohey said the landmark guide “Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines for Cattle: A Guide for Dairy Farmers”, highlighted national industry standards.
“The guidelines and standards were the result of extensive negotiations and consultations across all cattle industry stakeholders, including animal activists groups,” he said.
“It clearly sets out the responsibilities of those caring for livestock.
“Recommendations range from guidelines for feed and water, environmental space, pain avoidance and relief, through to minimising the risk of predation to overall herd management.”
Mr Morgan said while ever milk was produced dairy welfare challenges would remain.
”With the dairy industry reportedly facing an income squeeze of up to three years, it is important producers do not lose sight of livestock welfare priorities,” he said.
The industry had to be vigilant in strategically rebutting activist propaganda and in harnessing and retaining the broad support of state regulators and the consumer public.
“We can do this by supporting and pursuing voluntary codes of conduct and by being transparent about our animal husbandry priorities.”
