KNOWLEDGE

Bovine Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD); a Reality.

Morton Fraser Legal Director Gail Watt
Author
Gail Watt
Legal Director
PUBLISHED:
05 December 2019
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category:
Blog

As reported in the press this week Russian vets have established that climate change at this time of year negatively affects a significant number of the Russian 20 million-strong herd. 

Undaunted they have come up with a solution in the form of virtual reality glasses and whilst they have kept the exact design of the prototype kit a secret it has been reported that the wrap-around glasses have a “unique form” adapted to the cow’s anatomy and that they are played summer meadow "moovies" to make them feel less anxious and more productive.

Apparently the results of field trials are positive; cows given the glasses are calmer, and have an improved mood. Researchers are still monitoring the effects on overall milk production but have reported that it increases when the glasses are worn. 

This initiative has come as something of a revelation to the Agricultural and Rural Property Team but apparently we should not be too surprised at this development. Russia has also been experimenting with music technology and in 2013, a farm in Krasnoyarsk, Siberia, reported that the bovine optimal musical regime comprised Tchaikovsky while grazing; Mozart while sleeping; and 1980s pop or contemporary instrumental while milking!

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