On the evening of 18 March, we paid an unannounced visit to the assembly centre De Vries in Scharnegoutum (NL). We observed that calves were being collected for further fattening. The owner immediately made time for us and gave a short tour.
The calves were housed in groups, with plenty of clean straw. Overall, the facility gave a well-maintained impression. Most calves came from the surrounding region (within 50 km). The fences, including those in the driving alleys, were made of bars. We spoke with the owner about using solid fencing to prevent calves from becoming distracted or getting their heads or legs caught – a recommendation also made by experts such as Temple Grandin.
We also shared our concerns about the extended period during which calves receive no milk. On the morning of departure, calves are often given only water. At the assembly centre, they receive only an electrolyte mix, and the same often applies upon arrival at the veal farm. Milk – the primary source of nutrition on which unweaned calves are fully dependent – is thus lacking for an extended period. Research shows that long periods without feed seriously impact the welfare and growth of calves. Eyes on Animals hopes that assembly centres will begin experimenting with providing milk or shortening the calves’ stay at the centre.
We would like to thank the owner of the assembly centre for his openness and for allowing us to visit unannounced. We greatly appreciate this level of transparency.
