FENNIMORE, Wis. – Animal welfare has become an increasingly important concern for conscientious consumers. Dr. Jennifer Van Os, an assistant professor and extension specialist with the University of Wisconsin-Madison Department of Dairy Science, spoke at the Professional Dairy Producers of Wisconsin Calf Care Connection Nov. 21 in Fennimore about the value of housing calves in social groups both for the calves’ well-being and public perception. “Talking about animal welfare, even though it’s something that producers have always been tuned into whether or not it has been called that, is something that is really good to bring to the forefront and be proud of,” Van Os said.