Averbeck Blog 23

Happy New Year!   

 The first thing I did when I got to the barn is check calving pens. In my scan of the area, everyone was relaxing and chewing their cud, all but one. She was restless, up and down, sniffing around and acting unsettled – first signs of calving. 

I went about my tasks and checked in on her frequently. Some time passed, and she had not made any progress. She was showing signs of the next stage of calving, even pushing, but no sign of a calf. So, we moved her to an examining pen. We typically give them a little more time, but this one was a little different. She was expecting twins. 

As Louis examined her, he quickly determined we had to act fast. He felt four hooves – not a good sign.  He was able to shift them around a bit and get her first calf out. I tended to the calf, getting him to take his first breath. Louis worked fast and was able to help the second calf out. Phew!

Mom was a trooper, and both calves were happy and healthy. 

This process is a great reminder of life itself. We worked fast and gently to welcome two beautiful calves. Just another day in the farm. :)