New rules came into force this month, changing the regulations surrounding how cows are kept on hard surfaces. These aim to address the behavioural needs of cows and were developed by the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC). Keeping cows off-paddock in the long-term increases the risks of animal welfare so the new rules encourage cattle owners to look after their animals which is both better for them and for business. The standards allow cows to lie down comfortably on a compressible surface and there must be sufficient space for the stock among other things.

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