Dairy Science and Management invites researchers to contribute to a new Collection focusing on the assessment of animal welfare in dairy farming, with a specific emphasis on housing and management practices. This Collection aims to advance our collective understanding of animal welfare in dairy farming and its implications for the industry and food security. Advances in this field have included the development of innovative housing designs, the implementation of welfare assessment protocols, and the use of technology to monitor animal well-being. These advances have provided valuable insights into the impact of housing and management practices on animal welfare, productivity, and the sustainability of dairy farming. Continued research in this area is crucial for further improving animal welfare standards, enhancing the well-being of dairy animals, and promoting sustainable dairy farming practices. Future advances may involve the refinement of welfare assessment tools, the exploration of novel housing solutions, and the development of educational resources for farmers and agricultural workers to support best practices in animal welfare. Sub-topics for Contributions: 1. Welfare assessment protocols and tools in dairy farming 2. Impact of housing design on animal welfare and productivity 3. Technological advancements for monitoring animal well-being in dairy farming 4. Farmer perspectives on animal welfare and sustainable dairy farming practices 5. Well-being of agricultural workers in the dairy farming industry 6. Educational resources and best practices for promoting animal welfare in dairy farming

This Collection supports and amplifies research related to SDG 15, Life on Land.

All submissions in this collection undergo the journal’s standard peer review process. Similarly, all manuscripts authored by a Guest Editor(s) will be handled by the Editor-in-Chief. As an open access publication, this journal levies an article processing fee (details here). We recognize that many key stakeholders may not have access to such resources and are committed to supporting participation in this issue wherever resources are a barrier. For more information about what support may be available, please visit OA funding and support, or email OAfundingpolicy@springernature.com or the Editor-in-Chief.

The dairy industry is a cornerstone of global food security and nutrition, yet it faces significant challenges due to the rising incidence of antibiotic resistance, particularly related to Staphylococcus aureus and its associated staphylococcal infections. As we continue to advance our collective understanding in this area, we can better equip ourselves to develop effective management strategies that will safeguard animal health, enhance dairy production, and ultimately contribute to the well-being of consumers.

Antibiotic resistance in bacteria poses a serious threat not only to dairy cattle but also to public health, as resistant strains can be transmitted through food products. The implications of this issue are far-reaching, influencing not only the economic viability of dairy operations but also the overall sustainability of the food system. Therefore, it is crucial to deepen our knowledge surrounding microbial sensitivity testing. This can aid in identifying effective treatment protocols and minimizing the development of resistant strains.

Recent advances in the field have demonstrated the potential of rapid microbial sensitivity tests, allowing for quicker diagnosis and treatment decisions. Techniques such as molecular diagnostics and whole-genome sequencing have significantly improved our understanding of the genetic determinants of antibiotic resistance in Staphylococcus aureus . Moreover, research into alternative therapies, including probiotics and bacteriophages, shows promise in mitigating the risks associated with antibiotic use in dairy herds.

We invite researchers to contribute to this special Collection, as your insights and findings are essential for addressing the challenges posed by antibiotic resistance in the dairy sector. Topics of interest include but are not limited to:

- Microbial sensitivity testing methodologies - Resistance mechanisms in Staphylococcus aureus - Epidemiology of staphylococcal infections in dairy - Alternative treatments for antibiotic-resistant infections - Impact of antibiotic use on dairy herd health - Policy implications for antibiotic stewardship - Consumer perceptions of antibiotic use in dairy - Technological innovations in microbial diagnostics

This Collection supports and amplifies research related to SDG 2, Zero Hunger.

All submissions in this collection undergo the journal’s standard peer review process. Similarly, all manuscripts authored by a Guest Editor(s) will be handled by the Editor-in-Chief. As an open access publication, this journal levies an article processing fee (details here). We recognize that many key stakeholders may not have access to such resources and are committed to supporting participation in this issue wherever resources are a barrier. For more information about what support may be available, please visit OA funding and support, or email OAfundingpolicy@springernature.com or the Editor-in-Chief.