Once again, this year’s Easter cattle market in Schagen (NL) raised serious concerns about animal-welfare. Many animals exhibited clear signs of cold stress and fear. Several cattle slipped and fell while being sprayed with water—an experience that is both painful and terrifying for prey animals like cattle, who instinctively fear being on the ground, where they feel most … [Read more...] about Welfare concerns at yearly cattle market in Schagen (NL)
live animal transports
Visit to Leeuwarden livestock market: improvements visible, some concerns remain
On 19 March, we paid an unannounced visit to the cattle market in Leeuwarden. The market management immediately made time to show us around. The market appeared well organised: all cattle were housed in groups (except for the bulls), there was plenty of clean straw, the air was fresh, and water was available in every pen. Compared to a few years ago, the condition of … [Read more...] about Visit to Leeuwarden livestock market: improvements visible, some concerns remain
Visit to the calf market in Leeuwarden: concerns about extended periods without milk
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
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)
