Livestock cause most injuries

More than 65 per cent of on-farm injuries in Ireland are caused by livestock, because cattle are nowadays bred for returns and are unused to human handling.

The Irish Agriculture and Food Development Authority, known as the Teagasc, says injuries associated with livestock herding and handling have increased because of inadequate attention being given to breeding for docility and reduced contact with animals meaning they get frightened when approached. Also, contact between cattle and stockpersons has decreased with increased mechanisation and bigger herds.

The research also looked at the work of Temple Grandin of Colorado State University, US, the born-autistic professor who claims an empathy with the feelings of animals. The researchers were impressed and an instructional DVD based on her theories is being prepared for posting at www.youtube.com/user/TeagascMedia/))

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