This article contains confronting information about the dairy industry. If you have the capacity, we encourage you to continue reading, as the first step toward change is awareness.

The heartbreaking motherhood story we don’t often see

It’s Mother’s Day in Australia on May 10. While we recognise Mother’s Day can be experienced in many different ways – for many, it’s a day of celebrations, thank yous and time spent with the people who’ve nurtured us. 

At ‘Til The Cows Come Home, we’d like to mark this day by reflecting more broadly on motherhood and the stories that sit outside of what we usually see on curated social media feeds. 

A motherhood story defined by the routine separation of calves from their mothers, often within hours of birth – a common practice in Australia’s dairy industry.

Motherhood: a bond we all know

Motherhood is something many of us instinctively understand, whether we’ve experienced it ourselves or witnessed it in someone close to us. It’s grounded in bonding, nurturing and protection. The quiet, everyday acts of care.

But the connection between mother and baby isn’t unique to humans. Across species, we see similar behaviours: mothers staying close, responding to their young, feeding them and keeping them safe. It’s a relationship that runs deep – one most of us recognise, in some form – through a shared understanding of what it means to care for and be cared for. 

That’s what makes the reality within the dairy industry so confronting. Calves are often separated from their mothers within hours of birth and the milk produced for them is redirected for human consumption. Milk and colostrum that’s essential to their early health and survival – with many calves not surviving due to the separation. 

Milk is also a key part of early connection – offering comfort and closeness – without it, the bond we so readily recognise is cut short. 

A short, and far from sweet, motherhood story

The babies separated from their mothers are commonly referred to as “bobby calves” – often taken within a matter of hours or days, deemed as surplus or “of no use” from the very beginning.

As humans, some of us might tell ourselves that animal relationships are different — that they don’t feel or respond in the same way we do. But just because a system doesn’t allow a bond to continue, doesn’t mean it isn’t there. 

On farms, mothers can show visible signs of distress: attempting to hide their calves, chasing after them as they’re taken away, and calling out for days, sometimes weeks, afterwards.

Why is it this way?

The simple (and ugly) truth: babies are ruthlessly taken to benefit human taste, driven by demand, convenience and efficiency. 

Dairy production relies on cows giving birth to produce milk for human consumption. So begins a process of repeated impregnation and separation, year after year. Cows are drained to the last drop. 

Selective breeding has pushed milk production far beyond natural levels. A cow that hasn’t been selectively bred will typically produce around 3-4 litres of milk per day for her calf. In contrast, a modern dairy cow can produce between 20-55 litres daily, with some breeds, such as Holsteins, producing up to 60 litres.

This level of production comes at a physical cost. It far exceeds what their bodies would naturally produce, placing significant strain on their health and mobility. They also face increased risk of mastitis – inflammation of the udder causing significant pain and welfare issues.

What happens to their babies?

Male calves (and sometimes excess female calves) are often deemed “waste” or “of no use” because they cannot grow up to produce milk for human consumption. In Australia alone, around 300,000 male calves are destined for slaughter or killed shortly after birth.  

While female calves hold the ability to produce milk, they’re not spared from early separation. In many cases, they’re still taken from their mothers within hours of birth. While their lives may be longer, they’re often drawn into the same cycle as their mothers — repeated pregnancies and being stripped from their own calves, all to meet the demands of the dairy industry. 

This is a motherhood story where the same pattern of birth, separation, loss and production is carried on, again and again and again. 

This Mother’s Day…

We’re calling on Australians to take a small but meaningful step to a kinder world for mother cows and their calves. While you celebrate love and nurturing with those around you, hold a thought for the mothers that never get that chance. 

At ‘Til The Cows Come Home, we rescue unwanted, unviable, “waste’’ farmed animals, rehabilitate them in short term foster care and rehome them into safe, forever-loving homes as companions.

Every adoption or donation contributes to a different, more compassionate, motherhood story – one where care, closeness and connection aren’t cut short. A chance for motherhood to unfold in the way we instinctively understand it. 

In the lead up to May 10, donate on behalf of your mum or someone who’s nurtured you.

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‘Battery hens’ take their name from the cages they’re housed in – and it’s probably far worse than you imagined. 

Worse than a conventional cage, a battery cage is an incredibly small, restrictive wire cage with no solid ground – subjecting hens to a life lived standing on sloping wire, laying egg after egg, with no chance to perch, nest or truly rest.

So, what are battery hens, really?

And if we know they’re a critical animal welfare issue, why do systems like this exist at all?

Eggs are eggs. Or are they?

From the farm to your fridge, eggs might look the same, but the lives behind them can be vastly different. The lucky hens might have space to move, perch and nest, while others might live a life of confinement and restriction.

But beyond the carton and the label, there’s something more important to remember: hens are not just producers and commodities. They’re companions. Hens are sentient beings. They are social, intelligent animals who form complex hierarchies (it’s where the term ‘pecking order’ comes from), recognise familiar flock members and experience stress and fear. 

Research also shows it’s possible they can anticipate future events, learn from experience and have distinctive personality traits.

Therefore, the way a hen lives fundamentally shapes welfare. Housing systems determine whether they can move freely or spend their life confined in ways that prioritise productivity over wellbeing.

 So what are battery hens, really?

It’s not a type of hen, per se, but the houses they live in. 

‘Battery hens’ refers to laying hens housed in restrictive ‘battery cages’, ones they will often live in for their entire productive lives. Battery cages were introduced in the 1950s as industrial farming expanded and egg production shifted toward large-scale, intensive systems.

The word ‘battery’ comes from the rows (AKA ‘batteries’) of identical wire cages stacked in tiers inside vast sheds. These systems were designed with one goal in mind: maximise output while using the least possible space and keeping costs low. Efficiency became the priority, and the hen’s natural behaviours, like perching, nesting, dust bathing and roaming, were engineered out of the system.

What’s so bad about battery cages?

Designed to optimise production, battery cages are entirely wire (including the floor, walls and ceilings) so eggs can roll away on a sloped surface and drop straight onto a conveyor belt. That means there’s no solid ground or bedding – just metal underfoot for a lifetime.

The worst bit, Australian standards make this cruelty legally acceptable. According to the Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidance for Poultry, caged housing systems must provide at least 550cm² of floor space – that’s about half the size of an A4 sheet of paper! While the implementation of these standards sits with individual states and territories, even if a farmer meets these standards, hens can’t nest, perch or display any natural behaviours. 

It’s no surprise these conditions have health impacts. Wire floors can contribute to foot and leg injuries and sustained, high egg production (with much higher outputs than, say, a free-range system) places significant strain on their bodies. 

Bone weakness, feather loss, wounds from overcrowding and chronic stress behaviours are common consequences. There is nothing ‘natural’ about this form of egg production.

How are battery eggs different to ‘barn laid’, ‘cage free’ or ‘free range’ eggs?

When you’re trying to make an informed purchase decision, the different methods can be confusing.

Barn-laid or cage-free eggs come from hens kept indoors in large sheds. They aren’t confined to cages and can move around inside.

Free-range hens, on the other hand, must have ‘regular’ access to the outdoors and are typically housed in sheds overnight. Under the Australian Consumer Law (Free Range Egg Labelling) Information Standard 2017, eggs can be labelled free range if hens have ‘meaningful and regular access’ to the outdoors and the outdoor stocking density does not exceed 10,000 hens per hectare. That’s equivalent to one hen per square metre.

Understanding what these terms legally mean can make it easier to decide what aligns with your values.

Do battery cages still exist in Australia today?

Yes. Battery cages are very much legal in Australia (except in the ACT, where they have been banned since 2014). And we’re lagging behind many parts of the world – battery cages have been banned in Europe since 2012. 

In July 2023, all of Australia’s Agriculture Ministers agreed to implement the national Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines for Poultry, including a commitment to phase out barren battery cages by 2036.

But 2036 is still a decade away.

What’s worse, there’s not a lot of clarity on how the transition will work in practice, including how consistently the phase-out will be implemented across the country and what housing systems will replace them.

With an estimated five million hens still confined to battery cages in Australia today, it’s clear we’re not doing enough. 

So what happens to battery hens once they’ve finished laying?

Once a battery hen’s productivity declines, they’re considered ‘spent.’ A horrible word for a horrible reality.  

This usually happens at around 16 – 18 months of age, roughly a quarter of their natural lifespan, when their fragile bodies no longer meet the commercial egg-laying standards. They’re replaced with younger hens who face the same fate while the ‘spent’ hens are often sent to slaughter.

Rewrite the story: rescue a battery hen

Hens don’t deserve to be culled just because they’re not laying at peak production. 

They deserve a life where they can experience love, compassion and safety – a life where their worth is valued beyond what they give. 

The reward for adopting a battery hen goes well beyond eggs. Watching her step onto grass for the first time, seeing her personality emerge, her confidence build and her quirky habits unfold is a powerful reminder that hens are so much more than a production unit.

At ‘Til The Cows Come Home, we run regular Rescue Hen Adoption Days so you can find a friendly companion and more hens can retire knowing care, love and freedom. 

Upcoming hen adoption days

Throughout the year, we hold Rescue Hen Adoption Days in various regions across many states in Australia. Our hen adoption days can pop up in your region at any time – so keep an eye on our website and socials. 

All adopters must have a secure, predator-proof coop ready before collection. Hens need access to safe free-range space during the day, fresh food and water and ongoing veterinary care if required. 

Most importantly, adopters commit to caring for their hens for life, regardless of how long they continue laying. We see hens as companions, not commodities. 

Ready to save a life? Join an upcoming Rescue Hen Adoption Day, spread the word within your community or support our rescue work through donations or volunteering.

Discover Upcoming Hen Adoption Days

The post What is a battery hen? appeared first on 'Til The Cows Come Home.

This article contains confronting information about the dairy industry. If you have the capacity, we encourage you to continue reading, as the first step toward change is awareness.

What happens to the calves of dairy cows?

In today’s world, we’ve built systems that reward taking what we need from nature and discarding what we don’t – and the dairy industry is perhaps the cruellest example of that. Behind every glass of milk, dollop of yoghurt or platter of cheese, there lies a heartbreaking cost: the lives of baby calves.

To produce milk, a dairy cow must first have a baby. Just like humans, she carries her baby for around nine months, delivers and begins to lactate. But that’s where the bond is broken.

Calves are often separated from their mothers within hours of birth. The males – typically “of no use” – are destined for slaughter. The females are usually raised to replace their mothers, destined to live the same cycle of pregnancy, separation and production.

So what really happens to the calves of dairy cows? 

In this production line, no one is left unscathed…

 It’s not all green pastures and blue skies

For many, a dairy farm brings images of rolling hills and cows happily grazing. A comforting picture – and one that might be easier to hold onto than the dark reality. 

“Bobby calves” might sound cute, but it’s anything but. It refers to the newborn calves stripped away from their mothers, often within a matter of hours or days, so the lactating mother’s milk can be taken for human consumption.

Just like humans, cows are incredibly social creatures. They seek friendship and close relationships. A study tracking nearly 200 dairy cows found that cows form stable bonds, especially with those of the same age or family line, and these bonds play an important role in herd welfare. 

So, not surprisingly, taking a bobby calf away from its mother is a traumatising act. On farms, mothers can show visible signs of grief and distress: Hiding their babies from farmers, chasing after their babies as they’re driven off the farm, and crying for days, even weeks, after. 

The forced separation causes social isolation, disrupts herd bonds, and can leave lasting impacts on emotional and social development.

Tragically, that’s just the beginning. The suffering doesn’t end with the separation – for mothers, male calves, female calves, and sometimes even the farmers who work in this system.

Male calves are destined for slaughter…

Male calves (and sometimes excess female calves) are often deemed as “waste” or “of no use” as they cannot grow up to produce milk for human consumption. In many cases, they’re destined for slaughter.

Sometimes, this cruel fate can take place straightaway on the farm, farmers bludgeoning them so they don’t have to spend money transporting them. In other cases, bobby calves can be transported to the abattoir to be killed for veal or meat. It sounds like something out of a horror film – yet it’s simply the reality of being a dairy calf.

Imagine being only days old, forced to clamber up a ramp and onto a truck … a scary place for a calf that should simply be finding its feet in the world alongside its mother. The journey that follows is often long and distressing: calves crammed into tight spaces, often deprived of feed, and left frightened and exhausted. Once the journey ends, so too does their short life – inside the slaughterhouse.  Here, they can be brutally shoved, beaten, thrown and even killed while conscious (source).

Female calves raised to replace the herd…

While female calves are “of use” to the industry – they hold the ability to produce milk – it doesn’t mean they’re given kinder treatment. In many cases, female calves are still stripped from their mothers within hours of birth. Many are destined for the same tragic cycle as their mothers: forced repeated pregnancies and separation from their calves, all to meet the demands of the dairy industry. 

Though they may initially escape the slaughterhouse, it doesn’t mean they’re destined for a long life. Many female cows are killed between 4 – 6 years of age once they’re no longer of use – significantly less than their natural lifespan of around 15 years. 

Mothers face the endless cycle of birth and loss…

Perhaps worst of all, there’s no end to the cruelty for the mothers. 

The life of a dairy cow is far from idyllic – it means continuous impregnation and separation from their calves to keep producing milk. Over and over again.

They’re drained to the last drop. A cow that hasn’t been selectively bred will naturally produce around 3 – 4 litres of milk a day for her calf. In contrast, a selectively bred dairy cow will produce up to 20 – 55 litres, with Holstein cows producing up to 60 litres. 

This far exceeds what’s natural for them, leaving many cows unable to stand, walk and lay down. They also face increased risk of mastitis, inflammation of the udder, causing significant pain and welfare issues.

How do the farmers do this?

It’s easy to feel anger towards the farmers – and many do – but the reality is far more complex. The issue runs deeper than individuals, shaped by a demanding industry with limited education and legislation. That’s why we choose compassion, for everyone involved.

Studies show farmers aren’t immune to suffering, with almost half of Australian farmers (45%) feeling depressed. Isolation and extreme work hours are contributing factors – but also regularly participating in euthanasia can take its emotional toll, manifesting as symptoms of depression, grief or sleeplessness. 

While some farmers have succumbed to the idea that the suffering of animals is just part of the industry, others have begun to take a more compassionate approach. 

At ‘Til The Cows Come Home, we’ve witnessed remarkable transformations – farmers who once brought animals to us in heartbreaking conditions now showing care, compassion and even giving animals names. It’s proof that education and compassion don’t just change the lives of dairy cows, they can change human hearts, too.

So how can we rewrite the story?

In a world that loves dairy, finding a simple solution isn’t easy. Farmers are responding to demand and consumers are often disconnected from the reality behind their choices. But change is possible and it starts with compassion.

Many people choose to adopt a plant-based diet. This could mean embracing a completely vegan diet or starting with a few simple swaps: oat milk instead of cow’s milk in your latte. Coconut yoghurt instead of dairy on your cereal. Cashew cheese instead of cow’s milk cheese.

What if we started seeing animals as companions, not commodities? Calves are loyal, affectionate, funny, curious and deeply social. At ‘Til The Cows Come Home, we grow appreciation for this side of calves by rescuing and rehoming them, giving them a second chance at life and inspiring a kinder world for all beings.

You can make a difference

At ‘Til The Cows Come Home, we rescue unwanted, unviable, “waste’’ farmed animals, rehabilitate them in short-term foster care and rehome them into safe, forever-loving homes as companions. 

You can help change the lives of dairy calves by adopting a calf or donating.

Adopt a calf

Adopting a calf means you’re saving a life. We connect with both farmers and families to help transform the lives of thousands of animals, just like Oscar.

Oscar was born into the dairy industry, destined to be “disposed of” simply because he couldn’t produce milk. That was, until foster carer Sari stepped in to save him. Through her care and the companionship of another rescued calf named Daryl, Oscar transformed from a terrified and traumatised baby into a gentle and affectionate friend, now living safely in his forever home.

And we have many more stories like it – like Bounty and Ollie and Teddy, our 10,000th adoption!

We understand that not everyone has the resources to adopt a calf, but a donation (no matter how small) can go a long way in giving farm animals the care and love they deserve. 

Donate today

Your donation can help change the trajectory of a calf born to a dairy cow. 

Your contribution will go toward essential medical care and give us greater capacity to rescue, care for and find a forever home for “waste” farm animals. 

For you, it may be a small amount. For calves, it may be an entirely new future – one of love, care and compassion.

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But what if we told you that pigs, goats, sheep, cows, and even chickens can offer just as much companionship, personality, and emotional connection?

At ‘Til The Cows Come Home, a registered animal rescue charity operating across Australia, we rescue, rehabilitate and then rehome farm animals as companions, not commodities.

Our goal is to help people see just how special and worthy of life these animals are.

We’ve seen firsthand how farm animals, oftentimes once destined for slaughter, thrive when given safety, space, and the same care we’d offer any beloved pet.

Every day, we watch them form lifelong friendships, seek out cuddles, play games, and even sulk when they don’t get their way.

So, if you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to adopt a farm animal, here are 7 reasons they make amazing pets.

1. They form deep emotional bonds— just like dogs

Cows lean into their humans for pats. Goats bleat with joy when their carers arrive. Chickens follow you around the yard, clucking for snacks.

Farmed animals don’t just tolerate human affection—they crave it. Given the chance, they choose connection. They grieve when a friend dies. They celebrate when you come home. They know who loves them.

We’ve seen hens gently settle into a child’s lap, and pigs press their snouts against your chest for comfort. These are not “livestock.” These are companions.

Some of our Foster Carers have their own companion cows. When we rescue calves, these cows act as older siblings to the frightened rescue calves. They offer such love and compassion, it is a sight to behold.

When the new calves are ready to leave and venture on to their own forever homes, the older cows often cry out to them, visibly sad that their new friends are leaving.

They connect and feel, just like other pets.

2. They’re smart—and cheeky

Pigs are as intelligent as toddlers or dogs(some studies say even smarter). Cows can solve puzzles. Goats? They’re avid climbers and little escape artist geniuses.

These animals aren’t passive—they’re playful, curious, and full of quirks.

One of our team members has companion turkeys (yes, turkeys!). They are so inquisitive, they love to climb her ute and stare at themselves in reflective windows. There is never a dull moment with a farm animal companion.

3. They have best friends (and want to keep them)

We never separate bonded pairs at ‘Til The Cows Come Home. Why? Because animals experience companionship the way we do. They nap curled up beside their friends, they call out when separated, and they comfort one another when scared.

Whether it’s two lambs who arrived together or a pair of calves who’ve become unlikely soulmates, we honour those relationships because they matter.

This isn’t limited to animals, though. We have watched time and time again as adopters welcome farm animals into their homes and fall in love. Together, they create such strong bonds– a feeling of true companionship, loyalty and love.

4. They help us slow down and reconnect

There’s something deeply grounding about brushing a cow in the paddock or watching rescued sheep graze in peace.

Especially when you know their life could have been so very different. But because you chose to open your heart and home to an unlikely pet, they are free and loved.

These moments offer a reminder of what’s real. What matters. In a world that pushes us to go faster, farm animals invite us to be still.

Many of our adopters say the same thing, feeling as if their new companions have rescued them, too.

5. They’re gentle with children (and full of personality)

Rescued animals often form strong bonds with the whole family. Chickens will hop up on your shoulder. Pigs will flop onto their side for belly rubs. Even shy sheep can become confident with gentle love.

They also teach children compassion—what it means to care for someone simply because you can. That love changes people.

Of course, we always suggest caution when introducing animals to young children. But we have witnessed some truly beautiful bonds being created between a child and an animal.

6. They can live long, happy lives when loved

Sadly, most farm animals are killed young, often before they’ve even finished growing. But in adoptive homes, we see just how long and vibrant their lives can be.

Goats can live 15 years or more. Chickens? 10 years. Cows? Over 20 years with good care. And in that time, they can offer a lifetime of affection, mischief, and memories.

7. They remind us that all animals are someone—not something

Maybe the most important reason of all.

When you share your life with a farmed animal, you stop seeing “beef” or “bacon” or “wool.” You see, Rosie, who loves bread. You see, Oscar, who snores when he sleeps. You see, Daisy, who follows your voice.

Suddenly, a trip to the supermarket feels different. Because now you know.

Whether it is a calf rescued from dairy farms or hens from egg farms, you are saving them from a life no animal should live.

Still not convinced? Watch this. Or meet some of the animals to see just how incredible they are.

Yes, farm animals can be lawnmowers and garden keepers, they can help maintain land and nourish your soil. But beyond that, they have personalities, feelings and emotions. They are worthy and deserving of loving homes, just as any pet.

Thinking of Adopting?

We rehome animals into loving homes where they’ll be cherished for life, not treated as food, tools, or products. Whether you’ve got a small hobby farm or a few spare acres, we’d love to hear from you.

Farm animals make incredible companions. They just need someone to give them the chance.

🐷 Ready to change a life? Meet our adoptables or apply here.

Or if you aren’t ready to adopt but want to support the rescue of farm animals, you can here.

The post 7 Surprising Reasons Farm Animals Make Amazing Pets appeared first on 'Til The Cows Come Home.

1. Time to reflect

This tip is about recognising where you are in order to figure out where you want to go.

Consider writing down your wins of the last month, what’s still in progress, as well as anything you want to let go of. Did you have any slip-ups? What did you miss most during Veganuary?

After reflecting, look ahead to what you want to do next month. What do you want to achieve and what do you want to work on? How does this work in practice?

Plan weekly or monthly goals, perhaps start by choosing one habit you’d like to incorporate into your lifestyle and once you’ve got the hang of it, consider adding in another.

Remember: progress over perfection, you don’t need to be fully vegan to make a difference. Animal products can sneak into everything, even the most unexpected items. Always check the label but don’t be upset if you slip up. Just pick yourself up and keep going, it’s better to be trying and making mistakes than not trying at all. 

2. Find your support network

Surround yourself with like-minded people who can provide valuable resources and encourage you along the way.

Get comfortable with putting yourself out there– join a local or online group, use social media, or get involved in some volunteering work that gives back to the plant-based community.

3. Get out there and try it all!

Gone are the days of limited vegan options with your only choice being a boring salad. 

Download Happy Cow, an incredible worldwide app that shows you vegan-friendly cafes and restaurants in your local area. This is an amazing way to find places to eat and a useful tool to help you stay on track when travelling.

Choosing a plant-based lifestyle doesn’t need to deter you from engaging in social outings. Plan ahead when dining out and look up the menu in advance to help you figure out your options, and don’t be afraid to ask for vegan modifications on a menu, you will be surprised just how many places are happy to make the changes!

4. Try your hand in the kitchen

If you haven’t already, start by investing in vegan cookbooks that can help guide you but also serve as a great source of inspiration for tasty and fun recipes– showing that vegan food is anything but boring!

To help you continue eating more plants into the future, try to make your favourite meals once or twice a week and lean on simple and delicious recipes that you can fall back on in a pinch.

Try meal prepping or plan some meals in advance, for those days you can’t be bothered to cook (we all have them!).

Consider what a meal is made up of, protein, carbs, fat and lots of micronutrients. Mircornutriants are simple– lots of diverse veggies.

Protein is where you need to make a switch, this could be with beans and legumes or Tofu and Tempe. Lots of veggies are also high in protein like broccoli, peas and spinach.

Fats can be found in lots of healthy sources such as nuts, seeds and avocados.

Choose meals you enjoy and find ways to make them vegan (every meal can be made vegan!)

Or start small by switching cows milk for plant-based options or honey to maple or rice malt syrup.

5. Remember why

Lastly, remember why you’re doing it.

Whether you’ve made the decision to go plant-based for the animals or environment or both – keep reminding yourself of your motivation and how you’re contributing to making the world a kinder, more compassionate place each and every day with the choices you make.

Remember how you are skipping milk in your coffee for animals like Rosie and her baby Ragnor.

Before entering our care, Rosie experienced severe pain due to a foot injury, making it difficult for her to walk. She continued to endure years of milking until she could no longer keep up with the gruelling routine. Rosie was scheduled to be sold – most likely to a slaughterhouse.

During this time she also birthed two calves, both of which were taken from her.

On many dairy farms, cows like Rosie are separated from their calves shortly after birth so the mothers can return to milk production. This separation causes immense distress for both the mother and her calf.

The calves, often considered “waste,” are frequently sent to slaughter or raised in poor conditions until they meet the same fate.

The mothers, in turn, are milked continuously until their bodies can no longer handle the strain, leading to a shortened, painful existence.

Waiting for her heartbreaking fate, Rosie was found to be pregnant. Australian law prohibits the slaughter of a pregnant cow, giving Rosie and her unborn calf a glimmer of hope. Generous support from kind people like you changed their fate, it was their lifeline.

Only with your support, in this brief window of hope, we were able to rescue Rosie and her newborn calf, Ragnar. This little family received the medical care and support they needed. Ragnor will never know the pain his mother endured, he will only know love.

Lives like theirs are who you are saving.

If you would like to support the rescue of calves from dairy farms– you can do so now ❤️

Your compassion and dedication to change speaks volumes, thank you.

The post How Do You Stick To A Vegan Diet? appeared first on 'Til The Cows Come Home.

Your generosity this Christmas could mean everything to an animal in need. From emergency medical care to safe forever homes, your support transforms lives. This season, give the ultimate gift—a chance for animals to experience the joy and warmth they deserve. Together, we can make this Christmas a season of compassion and hope for every animal in our care.

This festive season, while we celebrate with loved ones, let’s remember those who need our help the most. At ‘Til The Cows Come Home, we rescue farmed animals from neglect and give them the gift of life, love, and safety. With your donation, you can help us continue this vital work.

This is Rosie and her baby boy Ragnor, on many dairy farms, cows like Rosie are separated from their calves shortly after birth so the mothers can return to milk production. The kindness of people like you meant they never needed to know this pain. You can watch their full story here.

‘Til The Cows Come Home is an Australian not-for-profit, founded in 2018. We are a farm animal charity that rescues unwanted, unviable, “waste’’ farmed animals, rehabilitates them in short-term foster care and rehomes them into safe, forever-loving homes as companions.

Farm animals are often not seen as companions but instead as commodities. We hope to be the voices for these forgotten and inspire you to not only share their stories but make more compassionate choices.

We are made up predominately of volunteers and rely on the kindness of public donations to keep our mission alive.

Find out more about the impact of your donation this festive season HERE.

The post How To Make An Impact This Christmas appeared first on 'Til The Cows Come Home.

Your support on Giving Tuesday can help us provide life-saving care, shelter, and love to animals who deserve a second chance. By donating to us, you’re not just giving money—you’re giving animals like Pippa a safe, happy future. Together, we can transform lives, one animal at a time.

You can watch Pippa’s story here.

‘Til The Cows Come Home is an Australian not-for-profit, founded in 2018. We are a farm animal charity that rescues unwanted, unviable, “waste’’ farmed animals, rehabilitates them in short-term foster care and rehomes them into safe, forever-loving homes as companions.

Farm animals are often not seen as companions but instead as commodities. We hope to be the voices for these forgotten and inspire you to not only share their stories but make more compassionate choices.

We are made up predominately of volunteers and rely on the kindness of public donations to keep our mission alive.

Find out more about the impact of your donation this Giving Tuesday HERE.

The post What is Giving Tuesday? appeared first on 'Til The Cows Come Home.

Her career was one of great “success”, but at great cost.

Her racetrack success earned her owners just under 8 million dollars, the expense however was a life of pain and suffering for Nelly. 

Behind the glory of her racing career lies a story that must be told. Instead of enjoying a well-deserved retirement after giving so much, Nelly was continuously and forcibly impregnated to produce foals, generating even more profit.

If a horse as famous and accomplished as Nelly wasn’t afforded humane treatment and respect in her later years, the outlook for countless other racehorses is bleak. 

Horse racing has long been described as a realm of high fashion, champagne, thrilling finishes, and legends like Phar Lap and Black Caviar. Yet, beneath this veneer of glitz and glamour, there lies a murkier reality for the beautiful animals that the horse racing industry “celebrates.” 

During their racing careers, horses are often subjected to immense physical stress. The act of racing, especially at high speeds and over considerable distances, can result in injuries that are catastrophic. Stress fractures, ligament issues, and respiratory problems are not uncommon. Some horses are pushed to such extremes that they face long-term health issues well past their racing days. 

One might assume after her glittering racing career, Nelly would have earned a peaceful retirement. This was not the case, she was instead entered into the breeding industry. Over just 11 years, she produced 9 foals, exemplifying a widespread practice where retired mares are constantly impregnated to generate profit through their offspring. This aspect of her post-racing life starkly contrasts with the jubilant celebrations of her track victories. It highlights profound ethical issues within the horse racing industry. 

Horses are herd animals and naturally live together in large groups. Horse racing can be isolating and lonely. In addition to the gruelling training schedules, racehorses can spend up to 23 hours a day alone in a stable.  This can manifest as behavioural issues linked to stress and anxiety. 

In addition to this unnatural environment, horses suffer physically for human “entertainment”.  To ensure horses reach maximum speed, they are whipped. This is a legal and widespread practice.

According to Vet Voice ‘tongue ties’ (an elastic or rubber band that temporarily fixes the horse’s tongue to its lower jaw) are used to help a horse to take in more air while running, particularly if they have a condition where the area in front of their vocal cords collapses at high speed called ‘dorsal displacement of the soft palate”.     

In addition, a horse is easier to control and more compliant when pressure is applied via the reins to the bit on the horse’s tongue. Issues with tongue tie use are pain, anxiety, distress, difficulty swallowing, cuts, lacerations to the tongue, bruising and swelling. 

Spurs (sharp metal attachments to riding boots) are used to exert pressure when a jockey kicks or squeezes a horse in the sides. Once again, this is a widespread practice. 

Horse trainers have been known to give horses stimulants for extra temporary energy and pain-relieving drugs to mask the pain that may result from disease or injury. Certain drugs can also be used to control pulmonary bleeding resulting from over-exertion in racing. 

Horse racing also brings grim statistics to light. According to data from the Coalition for the Protection of Racehorses (CPR), it is estimated that around 125 horses die on racetracks in Australia alone each year. These deaths are a direct result of injuries sustained while racing, highlighting the dangerous nature of sport and the intense pressure placed upon these animals. 

Upon retiring, many successful racehorses enter the breeding industry, which poses its own set of challenges. Mares like Nelly might spend the rest of their lives producing foals, their value viewed primarily in terms of reproductive profitability rather than their well-being. The repetitive cycles of pregnancy take a toll on their physical health and well-being, often leading to complications and a life far removed from the pastures of comfort and care they deserve.  

Others who have not succeeded and have no perceived value, risk being sent to slaughterhouses. In a 2019 investigation, the ABC revealed that “around 300 racehorses went through Meramist Abattoir in just 22 days. They had won a combined prizemoney of almost $5 million. On one day alone, covert cameras record more than 40 racehorses being slaughtered.” This is just one slaughterhouse that was investigated. 

The RSPCA identified that “The majority of racehorses will have a racing career of only 2-3 years, yet their life expectancy is 25-30 years. There is a high level of public expectation that these horses will be appropriately cared for in their post-racing life, not least because they have been bred and used for sport and profit in a multi-billion-dollar industry.” The grim reality is that there is a term to describe these horses…..wastage. 

Nelly’s legacy is indisputable. She was more than a horse; she was an icon. If Nelly was not afforded respect and care in her retirement, then the thousands of unknown horses face little chance of a dignified life or indeed even a life. 

There is nothing glamourous or exciting about suffering, injured and dead horses. Make a pledge now to no longer enable or fund this cruel industry. Say no to attending horse racing, celebrating Cup Day and betting on races.  

Let us honour Nelly not by celebrating her extraordinary accomplishments on the track but by advocating for the ethical treatment of all racehorses, including in their post-racing lives. Racing kills, on track and off the track. It is time to end racing and its exploitation of horses. 

Run free, Nelly. 

The post The Dark Side of Horse Racing – The Story of Black Caviar appeared first on 'Til The Cows Come Home.

While bulls and steers may belong to the same bovine family, they possess distinct traits that set them apart from each other. 

Bulls are usually larger and more muscular than steers. This can be attributed to the fact that steers are castrated at a young age, which means they physically mature differently from bulls, which have not been castrated. Bulls can reproduce, while steers cannot. 

The muscular build of a bull allows them to be easily spotted in a herd as they are significantly larger and bulkier than the other cows. In contrast, a steer is typically harder to spot within a herd as its body characteristics more closely resemble a female cow.

Physical traits aren’t the only thing that differentiates bulls and steers. Their behaviour is also quite distinct. Bulls tend to be more aggressive and short-tempered than steers. Due to a bull’s reproductive instincts, the presence of other bulls or humans may be perceived as a threat to their relations with the female cows in a herd. It is therefore natural for them to fight each other to establish dominance within a herd.

On the other hand, because steers have been castrated, they produce lower levels of testosterone than bulls. As a result, steers are less aggressive and more docile, making them easier to handle. Steers don’t reproduce, so they don’t need to fight other herd members for dominance. 

You will notice a lot of the males available for adoption with ‘Til The Cows Come Home are steers. This is because when calves are rescued all the males are desexed in our care before they are rehomed. You can find out more about why we do this here.

Adopters may be worried about welcoming a male calf into their homes because they’re not ready to handle their large and muscular bodies. However, you don’t have to worry about this when adopting a steer, as they are more similar to female cows in terms of their physical and behavioural characteristics. 

With the welfare of male calves, born on dairy farms a huge concern it’s crucial that we continue to grow our foster and adopter communities. By doing so, we can rehome as many of these sweet calves as possible. 

We often have many beautiful calves and steers in our care waiting to find their forever homes. If you would like to find out more please check out our adoption page now. 

The post What’s the Difference Between a Bull and a Steer? appeared first on 'Til The Cows Come Home.

It makes life for both you and your cow so much easier when it comes to vet visits and general maintenance such a tick and fly treatment. This also gives you the opportunity to take your cow on walks 🥹 (please practice caution with this one though!).

Below we have set out everything you need to know to halter train your cow or calf. When you adopt from us you can request that your calf already be trained and ready for your arrival.

Get treats ready

Firstly, we want the halter to be a good experience for the animal so they are happy and willing to wear it in future. 

Find a treat they really like, such as carrot, banana or strawberry, and cut it up into small cubes. Then, close the noseband and buckle it up first. Use a treat to lure the cow through the noseband and once they put their nose through the hole, reward them with the treat. Repeat a few times until they are super comfortable with that step.

Get them strapped in

Next, once the noseband is on, have someone feed them treats (or you can just give them a small handful to keep them occupied) whilst you do up the rest of the halter properly.

Once your cow is wearing the halter, give them a few treats for having it on, and then, take a couple of steps and if they follow you, reward them with a treat. 

Take a few steps again, and reward them for following. Don’t put a lead on them just yet. Get them used to just following where you walk and reward them for doing so.

Get the lead ready

Once they are good at this, then you can introduce the lead. Remember it is a learning experience for both you and your cow, so don’t be disheartened and persevere.

The most important thing to remember is that you should never use the leash to pull your cow or calf around. This will make it a very unpleasant experience for them, which means they will be less likely to want to walk with you. 

We can assure you when your calf is a few months old, they will far outweigh you and you won’t be able to win by dragging them around. Think of the leash as a safety device, like a seatbelt. The seatbelt is worn in case of an accident, and the leash should be worn in case something happens. For example, something happens that spooks your cow and his instinct is to bolt. This could be dangerous, so at least you have a hold of him by the leash to prevent him or her from just running off in whatever circumstance may arise.

Keep it loose

So once you’ve attached the leash, make sure you keep it loose so there is no pressure or tension on it. Then repeat as before, simply take a few steps at a time, and reward your cow for following. 

As time goes on, you can take more and more steps in between rewards so your cow learns to walk with you for longer periods. Make sure you practice changing directions and rewarding your cow for following these as well, and you’ll be out on the promenade together in no time!

When you adopt with us you get the full support of our dedicated team throughout your journey. 

Click here to start your adoption journey today.

The post How to Halter Train Your Cow appeared first on 'Til The Cows Come Home.