? on my milk cow with short tail

[NeHomesteader]

We bought a jersey cow that had a cut off tail. This is the first summer with her and the flies are starting to get bad. A friend of mine said you could order fake tails. Is there such a thing? I love this cow and i'd do that for her if I knew where to order one or if they really worked. I'd appreciate any info. on it. Thanks!!

[MDKatie]

I know you can buy fake horse tails (well, more like extensions) so maybe you could fashion one of those for her?

[DaleK]

You can, but they're mostly for show cows. Don't think they do much for flies. Try spraying her and/or ear tags.

[countryfied2011]

There is a lady on the "Keeping the Family Cow" who made one for her cow. Here is the link, it also shows a picture. Her cow's tail had been docked. She used horse hair and takes it off at night.

http://familycow.proboards.com/thread/42272

[HoofPick]

You can also use strips of bailing twine. Horse people attach it to tail bags so the horses can still swat the flies away.

[sammyd]

More than likely the fake tail will be less than worthless.
When a tail is docked a bit of the bony part goes which allows the cow to better place the tail where she wants to.
A powder, oil or ear tags would be a better way to spend your money.

[willow_girl]

I recommend Python Dust. You can buy it at Tractor Supply, about $7 for a large shaker can. It needs to be reapplied every 3 days. I bought a car-washing mitt at the dollar store that I use to rub it into their faces. It really works!

[NeHomesteader]

Thanks for all the great replies. I will check out the homemade tail. Makes me feel bad for her because she is defenseless. My husband feels the same way about the tail as some of you - he thinks I should just use a spray. Can anyone tell me what works that doesn't affect the milk? Does the python dust affect it?
Willow Girl-Mabel is on day #32 ,getting her blood tested Tuesday. Hoping for good results....

[Chixarecute]

Pyrethrin dusts/sprays are naturally derived, and safe...but ALWAYS read the label with its size 4 font so YOU know.