Top Tips from Tommy the Vet on Calving the Suckler Cow

Calving the suckler cow and caring for the new born calf are important tasks on every spring suckler herd in the coming weeks. Vet Tommy Heffernan joins Catherine Egan on the Beef Edge podcast for a two-part interview to discuss these important topics in detail. In the first part this week, Tommy highlights all the top tips related to calving the suckler cow. One issue on farms is when a farmer intervenes too soon, and Tommy advises how long to wait to intervene and how long is too long? Tommy describes when handling a cow, what a normal presentation is and advises what to do if a calf is presenting with leg or the head is back or coming backways. Tommy also discusses the key things to be aware of when using the calving jack and important points for farmers to keep in mind. Preparation is key and avoiding any situation where there is a health and safety risk is essential. Correctly restraining the cow is important at calving time. For further information please consult your local vet. For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at: teagasc.ie/thebeefedge