new jersey cow

luv2farm · #1 03/15/09, 04:04 PM

Well, my MIL is giving us a jersey cow that is about ready to freshen. This will be her second calf. I have a few questions..........This cow has not been milked before, but she is very gentle. How do I break her to stand still to milk? Can I share milk with the calf and my family? If so....how is the best way to do that? I am not new to milking.....just to cows

. LOL we have nubians! But, this 'lil cow had such a big bag last time, she can share milk with my family!

Cotton Picker · #2 03/15/09, 04:13 PM

Hi Luv2farm,

Whatever system that you choose... You will have to 'Barn break' i.e.....Getting the cow accustomed to being handled, and restrained in order to facilitate milking..... Some adapt easier than others... I would expect to, at the very least raise her hoof (hooves) off of the ground initially.... Ringing you bell with her hooves at worst.

I am an advocate of removing the calf from the cow and thoroughly milking the cow out twice daily.... IMHO, With this method one can better monitor the calf's consumption, while providing a more high quality milk for the table.

topside1 · #3 03/15/09, 04:18 PM

Congrats on the new cow, of course bragging photos need to be posted ASAP...hope for a heifer....Topside

copperhead46 · #4 03/15/09, 07:04 PM

I like to start petting and rubbing on them while they eat, then work your way to her bag. Just rub on her and get her used to you handling her. When I milked, I let the calf suck one side and I milked the other. I never needed as much milk as she could give, and when I was finished, the calf could empty out my side too. Get her use to being in the stancion before she calves, that way it won't be anything new to her. If you don't want to let the calf suck, be sure to tie it or put it in a pen by her head, that way she'll know it's ok and not be fighting with you, because she doesn't know where her baby is. Congrats on the cow, pretty nice gift.......
P.J.