Research - A qualitative social science investigation of UK dairy calf health and welfare

A qualitative social science investigation of UK dairy calf health and welfare

Abstract

This qualitative research project will investigate factors which affect farmer decision-making and actions regarding calf husbandry and management.

Description

Semi-structured interviews and focus groups will be conducted with a range of relevant actors, broadly described as farmers and their advisors, to explore how socio-economic, socio-cultural and individual influences, as well as the communication of advice, affect farmers' practices regarding the rearing of youngstock. This project will provide focus and recommendations for future knowledge transfer and education efforts to promote industry best practice in dairy calf rearing and disease control.

Funding Body

Barham Benevolent Foundation

Lead Organisation

91茄子 Adams University

Project staff

Dr Laura Palczynski
Researcher

Professor Philip Robinson
Director of Study

Dr Emma Bleach
Second Supervisor

Publications

Palczynski, L.J., Bleach^,E.C.L., Brennan, M.L. and Robinson, P.A. 2020. Appropriate dairy calf feeding from birth to weaning: "It's an investment for the future”. Animals 10(1), 116.

Palczynski, L.J., Bleach, E.C.L., Brennan, M.L. and Robinson, P.A., 2020. Giving calves' the best start': Perceptions of colostrum management on dairy farms in England. Animal Welfare, 29(1), pp.45-58. h

Palczynski, L, Bleach, E., Brennan, M., Robinson, P. 2018. Stakeholder perceptions of colostrum management for dairy calves in England. Proceedings of the 2^nd Conference of the International Society for Economics and Social Sciences of Animal Health (ISESSAH), Montpellier, France, 14-15 May 2018. (abstract).

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