New Calf
Not every birth is picture-perfect on a cattle farm. Instead of standing tall and springing up like newborn calves usually do, this little one’s front legs bent forward at the pasterns, making it tough to get stable footing. It’s a condition that can happen from being a bit cramped in the womb. He is a big calf! Thankfully he has a seasoned mother.
If you’ve never seen it before, “weak knuckles” (also called contracted tendons or weak flexor tendons) can make a calf stand in a way that looks a bit like it’s walking on its ankles. It’s not painful for them, but it does make those first attempts to stand and nurse an uphill climb.
Jeff works with calf throughout the day with manual stretching.
To Splint or not to Splint?
After several days showing signs of little progress, we decided to bring the calf down to the barn with his Momma and put splints on his legs.
The plan was to give the calf the support it needs until the tendons have time to catch up.
We wrapped and splinted his legs. The splints help guide the limb into the correct position, letting the tendons stretch and strengthen the way they should.
We’re hopeful this calf will grow strong and sure-footed with time.
Add comment
Comments