With the cows in the corral, we took time to put the final touches on the calving facility to make sure we are ranch ready. Scrambling is the last place you want to be when a calf is coming. This spring may get exciting, but not because of our lack of preparation.
For such a task as this, I called in my ranch hand, Peter. We put all the final parts and pieces of our facility together, including this new calf puller.
Deciding to feed the cows closest to calving in pen closer to the shed, we fixed up an old round bale feeder.
Should work. They'll make a mess, but a bit better then feeding the bale outright.
The maternity pen was our big chore. People have been concerned how we are going to tend to the back of a cow when the chain that holds the gate closed is at the back too. Problem solved. Once she's caught and settled, tie this rope to the top and unhook the chain. I see why not.
We decided to purchase a calf puller to have on hand. The discernment came down to the classic, I'd rather have it and not need it than need it and not have it.
Of course we have some OB chins and hooks on hand and easy to grab.
I think so.
In order to split pens, we had to bring in another water tank. That's about a days worth for the eight head left behind.
So Peter and I walked the herd to pull out the top three closest candidates.
Grandma, 71, and ole Red.
My bet, 71, black/white face, will go for first. Within 10 days.
Bring it.
This is going to be fun. It's been a while since I've kept a close eye on cows fixing to calve. I don't doubt there will be some challenges, but we're ready. I'm actually not so worried about these first calf heifers having calving problems as much as I am with them mothering up. That's what we really need to be around for. A couple days in close quarters with their calf, and they'll be ready to run. Let's find out. Ranch on.
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