Dairy Animal Care Program
Now more than ever, consumers want to know that dairy products are safe, wholesome and nutritious, and that animals receive the highest level of care. The National Dairy FARM ProgramTM, available to all producers, establishes an on-farm animal well-being program and third-party verification system that demonstrates that commitment.
Dairy Animal Care Manual: At the heart of the National Dairy FARM program is a revised “Caring for Dairy Animals” manual, which is consistent with the National Dairy Animal Well-Being Initiative launched in 2008. The manual details best management practices for a variety of animal care issues including animal health from birth to end of life, facilities/housing, nutrition, equipment/milking procedures, transportation and handling. NMPF and DMI are currently working with dairy animal care experts to update the document to reflect current practices, animal-health concerns, innovations and technology.
Third-Party Verification: A third-party program verification system will assure credibility and demonstrate effectiveness. Third-party verification protects the integrity of the program and provides quantifiable verification that producers are meeting their ethical obligations to provide appropriate care for their animals.
Management: Dairy FARM is directed by the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) in partnership with Dairy Management Inc. (DMI). A National Dairy FARM Advisory Panel has been named to help guide the program’s development.