In the Netherlands there are about 1.5 million dairy cows. These cows take care of the production of milk for an average of 5 years. Between 20 and 30% of the Dutch dairy cows are taken out of milk production each year. This is the double goal: from dairy cattle to beef.
Dairy farmers naturally look after their cows as well as possible. The cows are the farmers' capital. Good health of the cows and as little disease as possible is the goal of all dairy farmers. To this end, the Dutch dairy sector has set a number of goals. The administration of antibiotics must be handled responsibly. Only if it is really necessary will the cow be given antibiotics according to the standards of the Veterinary Medicines Authority.
