Author: Lisa Smith
Raising healthy and robust calves is the cornerstone of successful farming, particularly in regions like New Zealand, where agriculture plays a critical role in the economy. A key question many farmers ask is: do calves need shelter? The answer is a resounding yes. Providing shelter for calves is essential for their health, welfare, and growth, especially in climates with variable weather conditions. This article explores the importance of calf shelter and offers practical tips for ensuring your calves are protected.
Why Shelter is Essential for Calves
Shelter is not just about providing physical protection from the elements; it plays a critical role in promoting overall calf health and wellbeing. Here are some key reasons why calves need shelter:
1. Protection from Harsh Weather: New Zealand’s climate varies widely, with cold winters, wet springs, and hot summers. Exposure to extreme weather can lead to stress, hypothermia, or heat stress in calves, affecting their growth and survival rates. According to DairyNZ, calves should have access to dry, draught-free environments to maintain their body temperature and reduce stress. Learn more about managing calf health on DairyNZ.
2. Disease Prevention: Calves are particularly vulnerable to respiratory illnesses and diarrhoea, especially when exposed to wet or windy conditions. Proper shelter minimises exposure to pathogens and helps keep bedding dry, which is crucial for disease prevention. The New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA) emphasises that good housing can significantly reduce the incidence of illness in young stock. Read more from the NZVA.
3. Enhanced Growth and Development: Comfortable and stress-free environments contribute to better feed conversion and growth rates. Calves with adequate shelter can conserve energy that would otherwise be spent on maintaining body temperature, allowing them to grow more efficiently.
Key Features of Good Calf Shelters
A well-designed calf shelter should meet specific criteria to ensure it supports calf health and welfare:
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Ventilation: Proper airflow is essential to reduce humidity and prevent respiratory issues while avoiding draughts.
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Bedding: Use materials like straw, wood shavings, or rubber mats to provide warmth and comfort. Bedding should be cleaned and replaced regularly to maintain hygiene.
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Drainage: Ensure the shelter has proper drainage to keep the area dry and minimise the risk of infections.
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Space: Provide at least 1.5-2 square meters per calf to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to stress and increased disease transmission.
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Temperature Control: In colder months, consider adding insulated walls or heating systems to maintain an optimal temperature range for calves.
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Portability: Having a portable calving shelter allows you to move the shelter to fresh pasture and reduce the risk of disease spread. This is because it minimises the buildup of pathogens in one area.
Outdoor Versus Indoor Shelters
Farmers may choose between outdoor and indoor shelter options depending on their specific circumstances. Each has its advantages:
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Indoor Shelters: These offer the most protection against extreme weather and are easier to control in terms of temperature and hygiene. Indoor shelters are particularly beneficial in areas prone to heavy rainfall or snow.
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Outdoor Shelters: These are more cost-effective and allow for better ventilation. However, they must be well-constructed to shield calves from rain and wind. Portable shelters can be a versatile option for outdoor setups.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Providing adequate shelter for calves is not just a best practice—it is a legal requirement under New Zealand’s Animal Welfare Act 1999. The act mandates that animals must have access to shelter that protects them from adverse weather conditions. Non-compliance can lead to penalties, including fines or prosecution. For detailed guidelines, visit the Ministry for Primary Industries.
Practical Tips for Farmers
1. Plan Ahead: Build or upgrade shelters before calving season to ensure they are ready when needed.
2. Monitor Weather Conditions: Stay informed about local weather forecasts to anticipate shelter needs.
3. Regular Maintenance: Inspect shelters regularly for damage and ensure they remain clean and functional.
4. Train Staff: Educate farm workers on the importance of calf shelter and proper management practices.
Conclusion
Providing shelter for calves is a fundamental aspect of good farming practices. It not only ensures the health and welfare of your animals but also contributes to better growth rates and productivity. In a country like New Zealand, where weather can be unpredictable, investing in quality shelters is a must. For more information and resources, visit Beef + Lamb New Zealand and DairyNZ. By prioritising shelter for your calves, you’re not only meeting legal obligations but also setting the foundation for a successful farming operation.
Outpost Buildings provides a quality range of durable kitset portable calf and livestock shelters. These are available in a wide variety of sizes to suit stock numbers and property sizes. They include assembly plans and all the required fixings and can all be delivered NZ-wide to your property. To learn more about portable calf shelters and options, reach out and talk to us about which one will suit your property best.
