Well, I am not in the best of moods these days and the weather is a big part of it. (Yes, I know we cannot change that.) Friday night and Saturday’s weather was nothing but a disaster. Wet calves and strong winds are just a recipe for disaster. Thankfully the calves were mostly in the calf shelters, but they were still wet from being out nursing. I moved cattle around and the younger ones or the ones that looked like they were cold I put in my shed. I found one that was kicking at his side but by the time I was able to get him in the barn he was better but I treated him anyway. I still have one that I am treating for pneumonia. She is improving but I am still keeping a close eye on her. As I have mentioned in the past, one of the reasons people choose to calf in the winter is for the dry conditions but this wet snow and up and down temperatures is not desirable.
So, it is not only the weather that has me stressed out. They are still trying to figure out the water issues we have been experiencing. Finally, they were able to get a camera down the well and look to see what is happening. They have a better idea now but it is still a bit confusing. They are planning another day to work on it. Yes, I know at least I have water. Then on Friday while feeding cows the loader handle broke off. So that was the end of feeding. I was able to use the other tractor and finished that job. Saturday night after the snow / rain quit I decided I better get some dry straw out for everyone in hopes of keeping everyone healthy. I went to get a bale of straw and the tractor would barely pick it up. I was thinking it was because I didn’t warm it up enough so didn’t think too much of it. Then I could barely steer it. Turns out there is something up with the hydraulics. Thankfully my uncle down the road was willing to come and he put out the straw for me. I am not sure who was happier me or the cattle. Sunday was an improvement, cool but sunny but the straw was dry then Monday rolled around and we are back to wet snow. I will be shocked if we don’t end up with sick calves.
Just a reminder that we are hosting an information night at the Sales Barn on pre-vaccinations. It will take place on Thursday, March 27, at 7:00 p.m. at the Sales Barn. If you are unable to make it in person but would like to join by Zoom, please reach out to me.
Ag Day is quickly approaching as well – join the RRFA and their great lineup of speakers on April 5 at the Barwick Hall.
The first Spring Cattle Sale is quickly approaching – we are booked for April 26. We will be looking for your cattle #s soon!
