Labor--how long?!

[mary,tx]

The hereford heifer has been in labor all afternoon, about five hours now.
The amniotic sac bubble has been showing for about two hours.
There are two feet. I have felt up to the knees and believe them to both be front feet, but I am dissatisfied with the position of the one on top, which appears sideways.
I have also seen the tongue.
This is not like kidding out goats! I have tried pulling the front feet further out as she pushes, but she and I together can make no progress.
Is it normal for a cow to labor this long?
I'm a nervous wreck.
mary

[ChickenMom]

NO, it is not normal. You shouldn't go much over an hour after presentation of the hooves. The cow needs help and the calf may already be dead. Get some help if you can. Get some rope or something and pull when the cow pushes, this usually takes at least 2 people or a tractor. Calves are very hard to pull, most people keep a come-a-long handy for this if they don't have help.

[mary,tx]

Thanks anyway. She has delivered, and you were right, the calf is dead.
mary

[ChickenMom]

I am so sorry. I wish I had of seen your post sooner or could have helped you.

[ozark_jewels]

Oh...so sorry, Mary.=(