New Calf Care

[mommaof10]

Our first heifer is due to calve sometime between now and the end of October. We would greatly appreciate any advice that y'all have regarding anything we should be doing with the mama between now and birthing, anything we should have on hand for the birth, and anything we should be doing for either her or the calf after birth. We prefer to stay as natural as possible, but also recognize that there are times where conventional medical attention is necessary.

i.e. Should we worm her prior to and/or after delivery, and if so, what is ok to use? etc.

Thanks for your advice!

Laralee
http://www.PlymouthRockRanch.com
Recording the Faithfulness and Provision of God for Future Generations

[JulieLou42]

Keep the vet's phone number handy!!! Some iodine spray for its navel. If you don't have a barn, or some shelter, you might need that, especially if it's rainy-muddy...keep it OUT of the mud. Straw, lots of it... or something for bedding. 1/2 gal. milk bottle for the calf maybe, unless it's to nurse mama.

I've never wormed my bovines...wouldn't know about that. They've shown no signs of ever needing it.

I don't let her calve in rainy or snowy weather, and because she's always AI'd, I can do that.

[Brisket]

lots of straw, dont use sawdust or small woodchips they can get in the calves nose and cause some breathing problems. straw is the best never gets stuck in the nose.