Effect of season, facilities, and handling on grain-finished calves’ behaviour during trailer loading for transport

This study examined how loading conditions and barn setup influence grain-fed calves' behaviour and the duration of loading in a commercial setting. It included 754 calves of various breeds—Holstein, Holstein × Angus, or others—with an average carcass weight of 176.8 ± 6.1 kg. Thirty-five loading events took place at thirteen farms in Quebec, following a preliminary audit assessing performed the farm characteristics, such as the loading dock, ramp, and layout. Calves were moved in small groups to trailers (regular or pot-belly), with observations recorded for the entire group. The presence of a loading dock reduced calf turns ( P = 0.003) and falls ( P = 0.084), while prior mixing significantly decreased the turnarounds ( P = 0.009) and stops ( P = 0.003). Falls occurred less frequently when aisle widths were between 0.70 and 1.20 m ( P = 0.029). Loading duration was shorter when a ramp was used ( P = 0.018) and when prior mixing had taken place ( P = 0.006). Overall, the findings suggest that the incorporating a loading dock, ramp and prior mixing as well as maintaining optimal aisle widths, can enhance calf welfare during loading. These adjustments could improve efficiency and reduce stress-related behaviours in commercial operations.