"At a conventional dairy farm calves are generally separated from their mothers within 24 hours of their birth. The approach substantially increases the amount of milk available for human consumption and proponents argue it can also reduce the chances of disease being transmitted from the dam to the calf.
But the approach is opposed by animal rights groups because the separation is stressful for both the mother and the calf. Studies suggest that calves reared by their mothers are likely to gain more weight, have better health and enjoy improved social behaviour. The RSPCA says there could also be health benefits for dams who stay with their offspring, including a reduction in the incidence of mastitis (inflammation of the mammary gland and udder tissue)."
But the approach is opposed by animal rights groups because the separation is stressful for both the mother and the calf. Studies suggest that calves reared by their mothers are likely to gain more weight, have better health and enjoy improved social behaviour. The RSPCA says there could also be health benefits for dams who stay with their offspring, including a reduction in the incidence of mastitis (inflammation of the mammary gland and udder tissue)."