The UMAD COW students come to intimately know the cows, including their quirks, habits and often larger-than-life personalities.
Veterinarian Dr. Simon Alexander, a UMaine alumnus, was one of the student founders of UMAD COWS a decade ago.
Thorough clean up is mandatory, which includes keeping the barn swept and the milk room and equipment sanitary.
Even though it’s a lot of hard work, the students don’t seem to mind. They appreciate the opportunity to learn in such a hands-on way, and most become quite attached to the ladies of the herd.
As part of the two-credit lab of AVS 346, students learn about all aspects of operating a dairy farm, including milking, vaccinating and assisting in calf births.
Calves require some extra attention and care, and the students become quite attached.
Claire Dugan, a senior in animal and veterinary sciences from Framington, Conn., in the midst of a morning milking.
Animals
Animal Sciences, University of Maine , Orono, Maine
Two Holsteins are assigned to each student, who is then responsible for the animals’ health and wellness throughout the semester.
