Exercise is key to the well-being of cows. Many farmers have freestall barns, meaning the cows are “free” to move about to eat, drink or rest whenever and wherever they like. These barns also provide shade and protection from the elements.
Inside these barns, farmers provide comfortable bedding for the cows in the form of sand, wood chips, recycled shredded rubber or mattresses. In regions of the country where it gets hot, farmers use a system of spray misters and large fans to keep the cows cool.