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Deworming, tattooing, growth implantation, vaccinating, and surgical castration of calves 7 March 2009 Page two of four |
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The anxiety of the cows over being separated from their calves, even for a brief time, is manifested by their constant lowing. A few cows are brave enough to approach the work area to investigate the calves in the chute for their offspring. |
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| Rob Tripson enters the squeeze chute to help a calf get turned around. | For a more complete explanation of surgical castration, visit 19 February 2009, page three |
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The male calves selected for surgical castration are thrown to the ground upon exiting the chute. |
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Everyone lends a hand to keep the calf immobile during the procedure. |
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| "Cutting the calf" involves opening the scrotum, pulling out the testicles, then cutting the spermatic cord with the emasculator. Learn more about Castrating Calves and Lambs. | The entire procedure takes only seconds, then the calf is released to return to the herd and its mother. |
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ABOVE LEFT: Sean Sexton shows off his hands covered in the iodine used to sterilize the surgical instruments. ABOVE RIGHT: A jumper goes over the fence with ease to get back into the herd. LEFT: Generational mix: Sean talks with Ralph Sexton in the background, while Tyler Bailes looks on as his younger brother, Blake, takes a nap. BELOW: The herd returns to pasture in a cloud of dust. Go to page three of four > > > |
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