[AlterNet]

Most dairy enthusiasts would be horrified to know the conditions cows
endure and how closely dairies are tied to veal operations and the
rest of the meat industry.
...
The bucolic scene of Holsteins grazing on a grassy hill that adorns
milk cartons and cheese wrappers is nothing more than fantasy these
days. While the meat industry has come under intensive scrutiny (and
with good reason) for the massive factory farm system of raising
cattle in confinement, animals in the dairy industry are arguably
worse off.

Eating milk, cheese, sour cream, ice cream, and other dairy yumminess
is impossible to do with a clear conscience -- and I'm not referring
to the fat or cholesterol. Calves born into the industrial grip of
today's dairy industry have a road ahead of them that is short, but
not merciful. Dairy cows are subject to brutal conditions before being
sent to slaughter for beef and male calves are worth next to nothing
in the dairy business. Some are simply left to die after birth. Many
are slaughtered for low-grade "bob veal" a few days after they are
born and will end up as cheap hot dogs or dog food.

--
full story:
http://www.alternet.org/food/145378/got_milk_a_disturbing_look_at_the_dairy_industry