Bird Flu Threatens Cow Cuddling: The Joyful Therapy Under Siege
The trend of cow cuddling has become increasingly popular in the United States, with people paying to spend time snuggling with dairy or beef cattle on farms. This activity is seen as therapeutic and provides an adventurous experience for city dwellers seeking a taste of rural life. Farmers like Luz and Dan Klotz rely on these visits to help cover their farm expenses.
However, the recent bird flu outbreak in dairy herds across nine states has raised concerns about the safety of such interactions. While the risk of human infection is low, government officials are urging farmers to limit outside visitors to their farms. In Michigan, where one dairy herd tested positive for bird flu, new sanitation measures and access limitations have been implemented to protect animals and people.
Despite these challenges, agritourism remains a crucial source of income for many small family farms. Activities like cow cuddling contribute significantly to farm revenues, especially during times of economic downturn in the agricultural sector. While precautions are being taken to ensure the safety of visitors and animals, the popularity of these experiences continues to grow, highlighting the resilience and creativity of farmers in adapting to changing circumstances.
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