Proudfoot, Kathryn
Research
Dairy cattle welfare
Generally, I study in the field of dairy cattle welfare. Specifically, my work has focused on reducing disease in these cattle by reducing stressors in their environment. As in humans, stress, such as competing with other cows for feed, will impact a cow's immunity. My research identifies which practices dairy producers can use that limit these stressors, such as reducing the number of cows in a pen which in turn reduces the stress of competing for the feed. Reducing stress and disease in dairy cows is a win-win, as it is good for the welfare of cow, the bottom-line of the producer, as well as the interest of the consumer who cares about how the animals used for food production are treated.
One of the mandates of the Animal Welfare Program is to ensure that all of the research we do is applicable in real life. Thus, I hope that my research will be used to educate dairy producers, as well as the public, about the impact of stress on disease in cattle, and about practical ways in which we can limit stressors to reduce those diseases. I see animal welfare science as the bridge between such opposing sides as animal rights activists and producers; ultimately I hope the information I gain during my PhD can contribute to a foundation of understanding between these two vastly opposed sides.
The two greatest loves of my life are research and teaching. As corny as that sounds, I mean it. I knew I wanted to be a scientist from a very young age, and over recent years have grown to enjoy doing the things most graduate students abhor: data collection, statistics, writing...the entire process excites me. And the more I experiment with teaching styles, the more I am inspired to follow in the steps of my mother and father to become an educator.
I feel very fortunate, and even a bit spoiled, to be a part of the Animal Welfare Program at UBC. This program is the only one of its kind in North America, and within it lies a world-class Dairy Education and Research Centre. The latter attracts visiting scholars from all corners of the globe.
Don't believe all of the stereotypes. People don't live in igloos, they don't all say 'ay', but so far they have lived up to their reputation of being kind and hospitable! Live near the water, and enjoy the delicious (and local!) seafood, produce and wines from all parts of BC.
The festival of lights! My apartment overlooks English Bay, so every summer I invite close friends to cram onto my balcony to share in the magic :)
I am a jack of all sports, master of none. Although my favorite is beach volleyball, I have recently taken up cross-country skiing since I have traded California beaches for BC mountains.
Ultimately, I hope to be a teacher of higher education in the field of animal welfare science. As the field is just burgeoning, and public interest in animal welfare is growing, I see many opportunities for me to teach at a University in the US (California, here I come!). Alongside teaching and research, I hope also to contribute to community outreach and education regarding animal welfare.
