Tail Docking (Critical Criterion) |
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There is no evidence that tail docking provides any benefit to the cow through improved udder health or hygiene, and the procedure appears to cause acute pain. Docked cattle have increased fly load, which is reported to cause increased restlessness and decreased feeding behavior. Tail docking is banned in California, Ohio, Rhode Island, and New Jersey.
How to assess:
Routine tail docking is prohibited on-farm, and this extends to calf and heifer raising facilities used by the farm, or the purchase of replacements.
Check for freshly-docked tails in the milk-fed calf, heifer, and lactating cow groups. Pay close attention to the pens that house the first lactation cows while using the "Everywhere" criteria in every pen.
Switch trimming is allowed.
Check for freshly-docked tails in the milk-fed calf, heifer, and lactating cow groups. Pay close attention to the pens that house the first lactation cows while using the "Everywhere" criteria in every pen.
Switch trimming is allowed.
Example of a docked tail.
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Neither cow pictured has a docked tail.
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There is currently no repeatability test for this measure.