By John Salak –
Cow cuddling is hot. Okay, let’s rephrase that. Getting up close and personal with cows is now one of the nation’s Top Ten wellness trends, according to meditation nonprofit Art of Living. In fact, in just the last year the interest in buddying up to a bovine has jumped 85 percent, allowing it to reach seventh place on the Art of Living’s list.
The practice, which may have started decades ago in The Netherlands, has become increasingly popular in the U.S. as proponents—and dairy farmers looking to make some extra money—claim these cuddles are a balm for those with the jitters.
“This practice is gaining popularity worldwide because it is thought to offer a unique blend of emotional and psychological benefits. This serene activity primarily aids in reducing stress through gentle interaction with cows,” Psychology Today reported recently.
Cow-cuddling opportunities, in fact, are popping up in virtually every state, county and town that boasts bovines. Unfortunately, all might not be well with the idea.
No one is questioning the calming benefits of giving Elsie a gentle squeeze. The threat to the practice instead comes from the growing risk of bird flu among dairy herds. By early May, nine states had reported herds with bird flu and some scientists warn the problem might be more widespread than first suspected among the country’s 26,000 dairy farms.
At least one dairy worker, for example, has already tested positive for the virus although the risk of widespread human infections remains low, government officials note.
Still, some are advising to corral in those cuddles for the time being. “From a human to animal health standpoint, now is not a good time to cuddle cows,” Tim Boring, Director of Michigan’s Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, told Reuters. “This is to protect the cows and people.”
Those still insisting on a cuddle—bird flu aside—should remember a few things before any embrace. Cows are big and not cuddly in the same way domesticated pets like cats and dogs are. Yes, cows can be chill, even affectionate if raised properly. They may even enjoy a good head scratch or being petted. But they are still livestock animals that have their own approach to life and human interaction. Caution and respect need to be applied when approaching any cow, no matter how seemingly gentle and affectionate it may appear.
Still not convinced? At several hundred pounds each, it doesn’t take much for a cow to inadvertently squish someone if they feel threatened or uncomfortable. In fact, cows cause ten times more fatalities each year in the U.S. than sharks.
Admittedly, these cow-related fatalities are not tied to cuddling or the bird flu. Still, it’s wise not to get on the wrong side of a cow, literally.
