Dimensioning of loose housing for horned dairy cows
Project Leader: Prof. Dr. Knierim, Ute
Project participants: Schneider, Claudia; Klocke, Peter
Project description:
The current standards for the dimensioning of loose housing have been designed for cows without horns. In cramped or unfavorably designed stalls, horn-bearing animals can get into fights and be injured by the horns. The project aims to develop better concepts with regard to the dimensioning and design of loose housing and also to collect helpful management measures. To this end, the (social) behavior and injury frequency of horned animals will be observed in an experimental barn if they are offered more space in different areas of the barn than is usual today. Secondly, a survey will be carried out on practical farms. The housing conditions and cows on the farms are assessed and the experiences and problems of the farmers are compiled. In cooperation with: Schneider, C. and Klocke, P. Research Institute of Organic Agriculture, Switzerland.
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