Reducing fear responses in cattle shows evidence for improved health
It is great to see that there is becoming more recognition of the role of anxiety and fear in the health of our farmed animals.
This is a good article showing the importance of reducing fear in future situations by work done on farm:
Stock and Land: Target Anxiety to Offset Disease in Cattle
Experiences at a specific time in development of an animal will reduce fear with future exposure. There are certain times in the life of an animal where exposure to situations at levels that are not overwhelming will make a huge difference to welfare through the prevention of heightened fear responses.