Hands-on calf care training series offered

Faith Cullens, Michigan State University Extension -

MSU Extension is offering a hands-on calf care training series every Wednesday in May in mid-Michigan.

Photo by Faith Cullens, MSU Extension.

MSU Extension is offering a hands-on calf care training series every Wednesday in May in mid-Michigan. These sessions are designed for employees that are new to calf care or for anyone wanting to learn new skills in handling calves. Participants may attend a single class or all five. Classes will be offered simultaneously in English and Spanish. Instructors include MSU Extension’s Faith Cullens, Paola Bacigalupo and Dr. Angel Abuelo (MSU College of Veterinary Medicine). Because we will be handling calves, participants must wear clean clothes and boots.

There is no charge for the classes, however space is limited, so please register on the event page or by calling/texting Faith Cullens at 517-388-1078. Participants may attend a single class, or all five.

  • May 1st will focus on identifying sick calves, conducting a complete health exam, and treatment protocols. This session will run from 10:30-12:00 at Simon Dairy Farm 11983 E Maple Road, Westphalia.
  • May 8th will focus on colostrum collection, testing, and storage. In addition, we will cover newborn care including placing an esophageal tube feeder, umbilical care, ear tagging, and tips for sluggish newborns. This session will run from 10:30-12:00 at Nobis Dairy Farm 5813 W Walker Road, St. Johns.
  • May 15th will focus on dehorning. We will be dehorning calves using a hot iron with a lidocaine nerve block. Dehorning with paste will also be demonstrated.  This session will run from 10:30-12:00 at Nobis Dairy Farm 5813 W Walker Road, St. Johns.
  • May 22nd will focus on treatment of common calf disease including administering electrolytes and injectable medications via esophageal tube feeder, IM, SQ, and IV methods. This session will run from 10:30-12:00 at Simon Dairy Farm 11983 E Maple Road, Westphalia.
  • May 29th will focus on feeding. We will cover milk/milk replacer preparation, delivery, and cleaning.  This session will run from 10:30-12:00 at Nobis Dairy Farm 5813 W Walker Road, St. Johns.

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