First time ever

[packmule]

I ear tagged 4 cows today for the first time. And I banded one that's about 5 months old with a small bander what's some of the things I should keep an eye on. My 2 larger cows I waited to long and had to use a large bander that we had a lot of trouble out of. Had to pay a vet and it looked real bad. Any thoughts would be much appreciated. By the way about the name pack mule I've been married 12 years I know my status in life.

[d'vash]

Packmule, are you banding cows' horns or castrating bulls? It would help to know what exactly you're banding.

[Madsaw]

Welcome Packmule
I have also been referred to as s pack mule also. But that's due to being strong as a ox and dumb as mule for some of the stuff I have carried and lifted.
Yeap it will be good to know which end you been working on these cattle. Either the moo or poo end and we can get you the info you seek.
Bob

[nosqrls]

I don't like banding. seen too many break and you lose the calf.

[myheaven]

Yeah Bob your are as strong as an ox! My back still hurts after watching you carry the girls to the trailer.
Banding of anything this time of year is bad. Well in my neck of the woods. It's fly season and is a recipe for disaster. I band in fall. It's a miserable process. I hate it. I hope the cal had a Cdt before the band was applied.

[packmule]

I banded for castration. It is definitely fly season here, however, last season when I waited a friend had to come out to use the large bander. It wasn't pretty. One kept breaking bands and the vet had to be brought out. She knocked him out and had to cut it off.

Now, I'm using a spray specifically made to help with flies once a day. Also will be laying fresh hay for bedding as needed.

Thanks for the input.

[myheaven]

Good to know your using spray. Keep a super close eye on him.

[Bret]

Welcome. I still put the tags in backwards now and then, or on the wrong side of the ear. I try to tag newborns when they hit the ground or they get to smart too fast.

If only I could learn as fast.