A California legislative proposal that would end the practice of docking the tails of dairy cattle has passed the state Senate and is now being considered in the Assembly, reports Western United Dairymen (WUD).
Senate Bill 135, sponsored by State Senator Dean Florez (D-Shafter), was approved by the Senate May 26 on a 27-12 vote.
The bill makes the practice of tail docking cattle a misdemeanor unless performed by a veterinarian for veterinary purposes.
Tail docking refers to the practice of removing a large part of a cow’s tail, largely to boost udder cleanliness and milk hygiene. It is not common in California.
Read more about the bill at: http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/pub/09-10/bill/sen/sb_0101-0150/sb_135_cfa_20090520_100131_sen_floor.html.
Catherine Merlo is Western editor for Dairy Today. You can reach her at cmerlo@farmjournal.com.
