Is it true?

[JeffNY]

I was talking with someone, actually a leadsmen for Arethusa (farm that resides in NW CT). He said shaving off an animal, stimulates their appetite, causing them to grow more? I would think it would stimulate their appetite because they are loosing energy, as they are converting the energy to heat, vs growth. Say they have extra hair, the hair would hold the heat in, converting the energy to growth instead.


I ask this because I have considered it, but I keep rethinking that it sounds far fetched. I know the person who told me has been doing this for a LONG time, and has led many cattle down the tanbark trail. However, I am wondering if it shows that much of a benefit...


Your thoughts.

Jeff

[copperhead46]

crazyist thing I ever heard, even if it is true. seems to me that you'd be inviting sickness, God gave them the coat to keep them protected from the cold and the heat. They'd get sick in the winter and sunburned in the summer, at least, thats what it sounds like to me !!!
P.J.

[ksfarmer]

Can't say what they do in New York, but never heard of such a thing in this part of the country. Goes against any logic I've heard in 66 years of cattle.
Or did I get into the Sheep forum by accident?

[JeffNY]

Thats what I figured. These guys are inside, but still its 40ish and above, but they grow out their coat when light begins to fade, and shed as light gets more and more.


Someone else who showed years ago, said he heard of it, but thinks it doesn't make any difference. I have heard it helping young calves, but how much?


Jeff

[Ronney]

I hear some strange things in the course of my farming life and this would have to figure amongst them.

I can't see that it would help calves at all as they are even more prone to cold, not having yet accumulated the fat and body mass of an older animal.

Personally Jeff, I would be putting my time and energy into something a little more worthwhile than shaving my stock. And the mess - hair everywhere

Cheers,
Ronnie