Farm animals have been recognised as sentient beings and the role of early separation between young animals and their mothers an increasing point of contention. In this session, we hear from three experts who are championing natural weaning and who will highlight the multiple benefits of adopting a later and natural approach with the mother removing the young animal herself. Keeping animals together typically leads to improved animal welfare outcomes, which impacts longevity and economic performance. Outwintering youngstock on their mothers can ensure the animals receive sufficient protein during this phase and also lead to economic and environmental benefits. And within dairy systems, these approaches can even impact milk quality for the better and allow the marketing of produce for a premium. The panel consists of a suckler beef farmer, a cow with calf dairy farmer and a farm vet and will be chaired by Rebecca Mayhew who herself manages a cow with calf dairy herd.

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