Welfare code of practice

Introduction
Farmers' organisations and milk purchasers are fully committed to quality and excellence and have jointly agreed to adopt this code of practice for dairy farms.

Stockmanship
This section provides information on how farmers and farm workers should look after their stock.

Milking
Lactating cows must be regularly milked to avoid unnecessary discomfort.

Nutrition
All cattle should receive a balanced diet presented in a fresh, clean manner sufficient to maintain good health, anticipated milk production and reproductive demands.

Housing
Cattle must be housed in buildings constructed and maintained for the purpose and which allow free movement without undue risk of injury. Attention must be paid to ventilation and any problems acted upon. Extremes of temperature must be avoided.

Animal Health
All cattle should be kept in good health and be inspected at least daily for signs of injury, illness or distress. Any such cattle should be segregated and treated promptly, with veterinary advice sought if necessary.

Transport
While in their care it is the livestock owner's responsibility to ensure that animals are properly looked after in transit at all times as per current animal transit regulations.

The Five Freedoms
The Five Freedoms as defined by the Farm Animal Welfare Council are the key to good stockmanship and an acceptable and workable policy for the welfare of Dairy cattle.