This project addresses how optimization of the social environment of young dairy calves on farms can be a powerful tool to enhance their abilities to cope with challenges and boost their immune competence.
The hypothesis to be tested is that enhanced immunity is mediated by oxytocin release, resulting from pleasant experiences. The specific aims are:
Photo: Jenny Svennås-Gillner, SLU
This project takes a multidisciplinary approach and involves close collaboration with leading research groups in the Netherlands and Ireland. The project is financed by Formas and is a part of Centre of Excellence in Animal Welfare Science.
Contact: Daiana de Oliveira
Wenker, M.L., van Reenen, C.G., de Oliveira, D., McCrea. K., Verwer, C.M., Bokkers, E.A.M., 2021. Calf-directed affiliative behaviour of dairy cows in two types of cow-calf contact systems. Applied Animal Behaviour Science
Volume 243, October 2021, 105461.
Head of department: Anna Wallenbeck, telephone +46 18-674504.
Deputy head of department: Anders Karlsson, telephone +46 511-67210.
Director of Postgraduate Studies: Katarina Arvidsson Segerkvist, telephone +46 511-67144.
Director of Undergraduate Studies: Lisa Lundin, telephone +46 18-671650.