On 18 March, we paid an unannounced visit to the calf market in Leeuwarden. We were immediately welcomed and, as always, given the opportunity to observe the calves. The market appeared well organised: calves were housed in groups, there was plenty of clean straw, and the handling of the animals was calm. We also observed good practices, such as drivers placing straw on … [Read more...] about Visit to the calf market in Leeuwarden: concerns about extended periods without milk
calves
Visit to calf assembly centre De Skieding in Houtigehage (NL)
On the evening of 18 March, we paid an unannounced visit to assembly centre De Skieding in Houtigehage (NL). At the time, unweaned calves were being collected. The owner spoke with us in a friendly manner but preferred to take some time to consider allowing us access to his assembly centre. We fully understand this, as the company is not yet familiar with our … [Read more...] about Visit to calf assembly centre De Skieding in Houtigehage (NL)
Visit to calf assembly centre De Vries in Scharnegoutum (NL)
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 … [Read more...] about Visit to calf assembly centre De Vries in Scharnegoutum (NL)
Seventh meeting with the “Welfare for Calves” working group to advise the Flemish Minister of Animal Welfare
On the agenda again was the formulation and development of advice to promote animal-friendly, and economically viable calf farming in Flanders. No easy task, given the representation of both livestock farmers/fatteners, the calf trade, veterinarians, research and of course animal rights (the latter represented by both GAIA as well as Eyes on Animals). That animal … [Read more...] about Seventh meeting with the “Welfare for Calves” working group to advise the Flemish Minister of Animal Welfare
Sixth meeting in Brussels with ‘calf-welfare group’ to advise Flemish Minister of Animal Welfare
Animal welfare sounds so straightforward, it should indeed be the most natural thing in the world. Simply respectful treatment between humans and animals. Unfortunately, reality often paints a different picture, where economic and political motives frequently hinder animal welfare. Representing Eyes on Animals, cattle behaviourist and veterinarian Dr. Ronald Rongen … [Read more...] about Sixth meeting in Brussels with ‘calf-welfare group’ to advise Flemish Minister of Animal Welfare
