Abstract
Tail docking is a common practice on many dairy farms, and is perceived by many farmers to improve cleanliness and enhance milking parlour efficiency. It is a controversial practice attracting increasing scrutiny by the animal welfare community. Scientific studies have been performed to evaluate physiological and behavioural responses to tail docking in preweaned calves and preparturient heifers. The effect of tail docking on animal behaviour, indicators of pain, fly avoidance behaviours, immune responses and circulating plasma cortisol have been reported. Additional studies have been performed to evaluate the effect of tail docking on cleanliness and udder health in lactating dairy cows. The purpose of this paper is to review current research related to tail docking in dairy cattle.
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