A new Scottish documentary, A Dairy Story, is bringing global attention to an alternative model of dairy farming by highlighting Rainton Farm in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland, where owners David and the late Wilma Finlay allow cows and their calves to remain together for five to six months after birth, instead of separating them within hours as is common in commercial dairy farming.
Operating as an organic dairy since the 1990s, Rainton Farm is believed to be Europe’s first commercial-scale dairy farm to adopt the cow-and-calf system. An initial pilot launched in 2012 faced challenges as cows struggled to adapt to the new routine, but later implementation resulted in a 25% increase in milk yields, with increased suckling stimulating lactation after the animals adjusted.
The documentary argues that the system improves animal welfare while reducing stress for both livestock and farmers, although it also acknowledges that the farm continues to produce beef and that the economic implications of the model remain under discussion. Directed by Ian Findlay, the film premieres at Norwich Cinema City on July 30 before a wider tour, adding fresh momentum to global conversations around animal welfare, sustainable dairy production and the future of ethical farming practices. (The Guardian)
Source: Dairynews7x7 29 July, 2026 Read full story here
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