The advantages of Calving at Pasture

Most cattle producers cite reduced labour and input costs, milder weather, fewer birth problems and better calf health as the main reasons for choosing to calve at pasture in the spring. Karmen and Jason McNabb calve 400 Hereford/Red Angus-cross cows beginning the third week of April on a 60-acre native pasture in the Cypress Hills of Saskatchewan. The McNabbs […] Read more

Limb problems in newborn calves

Limb problems in newborn calves

Know the proper practices and intervention techniques to avoid injuries to calves

Occasionally a calf is born with crooked legs, lax or contracted tendons or some other abnormality that may need care. Some situations straighten on their own with time and exercise, while others require intervention, and some defects are so severe the calf must be euthanized. In other situations a newborn calf may suffer a fractured […] Read more


calf and mother in winter

Tips for warming cold or frozen newborn calves

Any calf with a temperature below 37.7 C (100 F) needs assistance and warming. There are several ways to safely warm calves, and the methods you choose will generally depend on your facilities

Precautions with Hot Water The quickest way to thaw a frozen calf is with warm water, but if you use this method make sure the water is not too hot. If it’s very much above normal body temperature, it may damage the skin — which is already compromised if it’s been frostbitten. Rapid thaw at […] Read more