To the Editor;
This is in response to the opinion of Mike Harvey expressed in the Cloverdale Reporter June 26. This is in regard to the abuse of dairy cows which has taking place on a mega dairy farm in the Fraser Valley. Mr Harvey states that this is commonplace across Canada. Almost all dairy farms, in Canada, are family owned and operated by the family. With little outside help. This in contrast with this mega dairy farm. It is obvious that the people involved were there for a pay check and not because they loved being involved with animals.
On our family farms the animals are part of the family. Whether we talk about horses, cats, dogs, or cows. If during the night there is activity expected in the maternity stall many of us will get up any time, during that night, and check if assistance is needed.
This mega dairy farm has thousands of cows while while the average herd, on milk recording in Canada, has 75 cows. Quebec has the smallest number per herd which is 59. And the average number in our province is 147.
Yes we are all ashamed what happened on this mega place but Mr. Harvey should visit some of our local dairy farms and get a better picture of how our animals are treated and taking care of dairy farming means a lot of hard work and it is the love for animals what keeps them, us, hanging in. And those who lack the love of animals should never be actively involved with this type of farming.
Steve De Jong
Surrey dairy farmer
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