Music improves animal welfare
It has been revealed that 77% of British farmers play music, radio, sing or chat to their animals. The survey published by RSPCA Freedom Food shows the majority of farmers believe music and social stimulation makes their animals more relaxed, calm and content.
Results of the survey, published on 18th June to mark the start of Farm Animal Week, revealed that nearly half (44%) of farmers play music or the radio to their animals. It was also found that 63% of all farmers and 75% of dairy farmers admit to talking to their livestock.
The survey follows research by Writtle College, based in Essex, which indicated that playing a radio tuned into pop music or a chat station can have a positive effect on sow and piglet behaviour, with increased suckling and causing piglets to be more playful.
As part of a new welfare initiative, the RSPCA is looking at ways we can better understand and listen to what animals have to say and help further to improve farm animals’ lives.
Marc Cooper, RSPCA farm animal scientist, commented: "This is about going back to basics and doing what good stock-keepers do best – looking at and listening to their animals to measure how well and happy they are.”
