Caring for Cows

Cows come first

Dairy farmers know healthy, happy cows are key to great dairy. That’s why they work closely with them every day, making sure they’re well fed, comfortable and cared for from sunrise to sunset.

Looking after animals is a vital part of life on a dairy farm. Healthy, happy cows help the farm run well—and it’s simply the right thing to do. People who buy dairy products also expect cows to be treated with care, kindness and respect.

Farmers check on their cows every day to make sure they’re well fed, safe and healthy – no matter the size of the farm, cow care always comes first. Here’s how they do it:

• Taking steps to stop sickness from getting on the farm and making cows sick. 
• Giving cows vaccinations to protect them from common diseases.
• Feeding cows healthy food that helps them make milk and stay strong.
• Making special walkways for cows to walk on so their feet don’t get hurt.
• Keeping everything clean when milking cows to stop infections like mastitis.
• Planting trees to give cows shade and keep them cool on hot days.
• Working with vets to help cows if they get sick.

All dairy farmers follow the Australian Animal Welfare Standards to make sure cows are treated well. Plus, the dairy industry helps farmers by giving them extra support and training to make sure they are taking the best care of their cows.

We’re committed to continually improving how we look after our animals and we’ll always be honest about what we’re doing well—and where there’s room to do better.