Extended cow-calf contact is receiving increasing interest in dairy production, but successful implementation requires careful planning.

This practical guide provides research-based information for dairy farmers considering extended cow-calf contact.

The guide discusses different cow-calf contact systems and their practical implementation, including housing conditions, management, animal welfare, and the needs of both cows and calves.

The guide was published by the Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) in 2024. It is a 49-page publication in the Natural Resources and Bioeconomy Studies series (69/2024) and has an ISBN.

Authors: Mikaela Mughal, Heli Lindeberg, Ann-Helena Hokkanen, Peter Krawczel, Jouni Pitkäranta, Marjo Posio, Matti Pastell, Lilli Frondelius and Anna Stygar.

Read the guide in Finnish here.