A HERDSMAN'S HANDBOOK FOR THE MODERN HOMESTEADER

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It's advisable for the herdsman to have on hand the following supplies and equipment.

(1) A good stout rope or leather halter for restraint purposes.

(2) In lieu of the availability of two or three strongmen to help, some sort of satisfaction apparatus is desirable, This can be in the form of a fence-stretcher tell or a specially designed veterinary "calf-puller".

(3) Two or three obstetrical chains or cords with handles or cords with handles.

(4.) A clean bucket of water and some clean towels ear sponges.

(5) A good, slick lubricant for use on the arms and in the birth canal if necessary.

(6) A mild disinfectant soap to sanitize the arms hands of the operator as well as the vulva of the cow.

If you've decided that you actually do have a calving problem (read Part I ), a preliminary examination of the mother should be made. Restrain the animal so that she can be examined safely and with a minimum of stress. Have someone hold the tail to one side, and wash and sanitize the vulva.

For the preliminary exam, use your "off" hand (the one other than the hand you normally use). This saves your strongest hand and arms for more strenuous use later. Make sure fingernails are short-clipped and clean and wash and lubricate your hands and arms. Cup the hand so that the fingers, thumb come together and gently insert the hand and arm into the vagina. This examination may disclose any one of a number of situations (discussed later in this section) which may or may not require further treatment.

If, at this time, you decide the the mother needs more help... stop for a moment and recheck your restraint. Tie the halter rope low so that the cow's head can touch the ground when she lies down and allow her ample space to do so. Before proceeding, assemble any other equipment you might need and call any helpers that might be desirable.

The rest of this section will deal with the various problems that might be encountered. Each will be discussed separately along wilh recommended remedial action.

Bear in mind that this blook is not intended to be a complete course in Veterinary Obstetrics, but rather a simple guide to help you overcome the most common problems that you're likely to find. If you encounter a situation that's not covered or one that you're in doubt about, do not hesitate to consult with your veterinarian or another knowledgeable person.

Most of the time, your initial examination will reveal the presence of two feet and a nose in the vaginal canal.. This is normal position for birth and is graphically illustrated in Figures 1 and 3. Attach a loop in the O.B. chain or rope firmly around each foot well above the "dewclaws" (see figure 3) Attaching the ropes in a lower position can result in severe damage to the feet of the newborn if heavy traction becomes necessary.

When the ropes or chains are properly attached, affix the handles and apply moderate pressure to the fetus. Make sure the calf's head is still in the proper position, and observer the precautions outlined above with regard to the direction fo force applied. fry to three your pulling efforts with the cow's straining.

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