KALKASKA, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – At the De Vor Dairy Farm & Creamery in Kalkaska, the cows are getting some extra lovin’ because visitors are signing up to give them a cuddle or two. Traverse Northern Michigan reports that owners Henk and Jackie De Vor had been chilling out on their pasture a while back when Jackie said, “I wish everybody could have a day in our life.” That’s when “cow cuddling” was born.

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The De Vor family raises their grass-fed herd in their pastures, the site of the former Shetler Family Farms. They make several varieties of ice cream as well as Old World farmstead gouda. Because, as Jackie says, “Happy cows make the best milk” the cows get to participate in hour-long cuddling sessions. This started back in 2022.

Henk, who grew up in the Netherlands, had studied cheesemaking and agriculture and “cow hugging” (koe knuffelen) was a common therapy there for children with disabilities just like horse therapy is popular in America.

The De Vor cow hugging program was a quick hit with more than 100 who came to their farm last year to cuddle the cows. There were couples, kids, parents, work friends and curious folks who just wanted to try it out.

Jersey cows are reported to be sociable and curious and the De Vors have never been worried about them interacting with visitors, even when there are 100 or so cows are moseying around. Visitors have their favorites though like Chewy who, according to Traverse Northern Michigan, likes to (gently) “take a guest’s arm or coat in her mouth, leading to hilarious photos.” There is also lovable Cashmere and Chickadee and class clown Honeybee who has been known to steal hats.

On the recent post on their Facebook site, you will see that cuddling is going on with all ages and sizes.

Cuddling sessions are $50 an hour for up to two people with a $100 family rate (up to four people). Groups of 10 or more can also be scheduled.