CityU's vet program savors sweet success
Money glitz | Adelyn Lau 15 Feb 2024
City University's Tai Po farm is producing delicious ice cream - says the dean of the Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences - and they sell for a reasonable price.
The sweet treat - at HK$28 a cup and which comes in grapefruit, black sesame, strawberry, hojicha, chocolate and milk flavors - was unveiled through a blind tasting game on Valentine's Day yesterday.
Vanessa Barrs said her personal favorite flavor is black sesame, which she described as "tasty and creamy."
The university farm in Lam Tsue has been primarily serving as a training center for students in the bachelor of veterinary medicine program since November 2022.
The farm provides students with valuable learning opportunities and hands-on experiences in various aspects, including animal handling, veterinary examination, animal welfare and husbandry, farm management and food production and safety.
These activities align with the concept of "one health," which recognizes the interconnectedness of human health, animal health and the environment, Barrs said.
One second-year veterinary medicine student, Yeung, shared the importance of minimizing stress in cows to maintain their health and milk production.
"I learned the importance of keeping the cows from being frightened," she said. "When cows are stressed it will impact their health and milk production, so the farm grounds are designed to prevent their feet from inflammation and discomfort."
Barrs said the farm boasts high animal welfare standards and ensures that the cows exhibit normal behaviors.
"The cows have access to rotating brushes for grooming, similar to rubbing up against a tree, and are provided with balls for entertainment," Barrs said.
Additionally, the lifespan of their cows is longer compared to those in commercial dairy herds as their focus is not solely on maximizing milk production.
"Each cow produces between 20 and 30 liters of milk a day. And we have 25 milking cows. On average they produce about 475 liters of milk a day. Sometimes it's as high as 600 liters," she said.
Barrs stressed the importance of providing the best health care for the cattle. The presence of veterinarians ensures that the cows receive optimal care.
The farm follows an intensive dairy farm model commonly used worldwide.
In addition to production, the department actively participates in community events and makes its milk available to the public.
It visits schools in Sham Shui Po, engages with students, and educates them about veterinary medicine.
adelyn.lau@singtaonewscorp.com
