THE TRYING & BUYING OF YOUR FIRST COW

(Page 7 of 9)

February/March 1992
By Lisa Faulkner 
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If you've never seen a stanchion, you can either go to a dairy where they have built wooden ones and crib their design elements, or you can buy a ready-made steel one. Basically, a stanchion is designed so that when the cow puts her head through to eat out of the manger, you're able to close it around her neck so that her head cannot be withdrawn. She's still free to move her hind quarters about and kick, but she can't leave. If you are unfortunate enough to have a cow who kicks, there are hobbles made to fit around their back legs which provide a modicum of security, but take care.

If building or buying a stanchion is impossible, it's perfectly acceptable to just tie her up. If your cow hasn't had any experience with halters, she will probably not be particularly enthusiastic about being handled around the head. The first time you try it, it'll take two people as she'll have to be cornered in a stall or corral—though not against barbed wire—and held while the halter is slipped on.

In about a week the cow should be leading well, but it's not out of the question for the process to take somewhat longer. Leading the cow initially also takes two people: one in front to hold the halter and one in back to carefully encourage her—with a swat, if necessary. Take extra care when tying her up so that she's comfortable but held securely in place. You don't want to be explaining to your neighbors why your cow just tore through his garden and clothesline.

You Big Beautiful Cow

Once you have the cow under control, it's time to start getting her used to daily grooming. Although ours objected mightily to this the first couple of times, she grew to love it and now falls asleep when we groom her. Not only will your cow feel better with a daily grooming, but it will get rid of the loose hair and dirt that might otherwise fall into the milk. Just brush in the direction of the hair and you'll do perfectly.

A Place for Every Cow

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