Alternative Weaning Methods To Consider

Earlier this week, University of Idaho Extension Beef Specialist Dr. Benton Glaze provided some tips to hopefully reduce the stress level on calves. Today, Dr. Glaze shares two alternative weaning methods to consider that are lower stress options.
Glaze: “The benefits of considering different weaning methods compared to just separating the calf abruptly from the dam is when we use fence line contact — the calves are able to see their dams and they are able to eat and be right next to the dams. Then the two-step method where you use the nursing flap to prevent the calf from nursing. Then leave those calves with the cow than separate them a little bit later. Both of those kinds of methods allow those calves to be less stressed and what results there is they gain better and you see them with better health benefits and less sickness. Those lower stress methods just can provide benefits to those calves as they are weaned and then on to future production segments of the industry.”