Codes of Practice

Introduction

The Codes of Practice are nationally developed guidelines for the care and handling of farm animals. They serve as our national understanding of animal care requirements and recommended practices. Codes promote sound management and welfare practices for housing, care, transportation, and other animal husbandry practices.

Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Dairy Cattle

Pertains to the care of dairy calves, including bull calves, while on dairy farms.

Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Veal Cattle

This Code pertains to dairy feeder calves (being raised for the dairy-beef market) during the starting period and cattle being raised for milk- and grain-fed veal, including on farms that specialize in pre-conditioned calves. Dairy feeder calves fall under the veal cattle Code of Practice until they are moved from young animal housing and management systems (that more closely resemble veal production rather than cow-calf operations covered in the beef cattle Code) into housing and management systems intended for growing and finishing.

Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Beef Cattle

Dairy feeder calves being raised for dairy-beef fall under the Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Beef Cattle once they are moved to housing systems meant for growing and finishing.