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Unusual Pets -
Farm animals
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There are at least 26 types of miniature cow being bred in America at the moment, here in the UK we have the Dexter.
The Dexter originated in the South Western region of Ireland. Like the Kerry, they are descended from the predominately black cattle of the early Celts.
The Dexter breed is the smallest British breed of cattle. It is a dual-purpose breed, with the average weight of a cow being some 300 - 350 Kg's and standing 92cm - 107cm at the shoulder. There are two recognized types, short legged and non-short, both of which have their equal merits.
The breed comes in three colours, predominately black, but also red and dun, apparently red is the rarer colour.
The breed's ability to adapt to varying and extreme climatic conditions and to different systems of management is a typical characteristic.
Milk yields vary as to whether the cows are kept for dairy cows, sucklers or house cows. For instance, the average daily milk yield for a house cow will be some 8 - 10 litres (2450 - 3050 litres per 305 day lactation).
The milk is of very good quality with high butterfat (BF) and protein levels; average BF % is well over 4% and protein 3.51%.
The Dexter Cattle Society web site http://www.dextercattle.co.uk/ has a wealth of information, including miniature cows for sale, shows, events and results. Even Bulls for hire.
The following information was taken from THE INTERNATIONAL MINIATURE CATTLE
BREEDERS SOCIETY AND REGISTRY ® a division of Cattle Breeders for the Future Corporation
CARE FOR MINIATURE CATTLE
1. Cattle should have shelter (barn or lean-to or some building) for protection against the elements - rain (rain burn on animals backs in winter), sun (sun-burn in summer around eyes & nose). Very important for animals to have shelter in summer because the fly population is at an all time high and cattle attract flies. Face flies spread Pink Eye which is a highly contagious bacterial infection that can lead to blindness. Pink Eye needs to be treated by a Vet. It can spread to other cattle.
2. Feed hay (alfalfa, local hay, grass hay, Timothy, etc) twice daily (morning and evening) unless pasture grass is growing well. Even then it's a good idea to supplement with a little dry hay as pasture grass can give them diarrhea. Dry hay will help in firming them up a bit.
3. Give them fresh water daily. Also should have an iodized salt block available at all times.
4. Vision 8 (also called 8-way shot) prevents Blackleg, Tetnus, etc. This shot should be given once a year to all cattle. Can be given in Spring or Fall.
5. Ivomec (wormer shot or pour-on). This shot should be given twice a year to all cattle. Given in Spring and Fall. May be given by Injection (considered best as it gets rid of liver flukes, worms, etc). However, there is a pour-on Ivomec (which may be purchased at Feed Stores) that is very easy to use but does not get rid of liver flukes. This pour-on Ivomec is poured down the center of the back in the proper amount according to body weight.
6. Co-Ral Dust. This is a white powder that comes in a shaker can. Helps to control flies (to some degree), mites, lice, etc. Shake powder on back, neck, tail, according to directions on can. Begin in Spring till Fall. Use off and on, not necessary to use every 14 days as directed on can. There is also a fly predator that can be used to help slow down the fly populations. Also available are insecticide- laced ear tags, dust tags, etc- check with your vet. Nothing will totally eliminate flies.
7. 3 in One Sweet Lix Block (Red Label). This is a Vitamin/Mineral block for cattle. Should have available to animals all year long. Sweet Lix has Selenium (a very important mineral for cattle) because most areas have next to none in the soil.
8. It is a good idea to confer with your vet to see if your area is lacking in any essential vitamins/minerals etc., that are important for good growth/health of your cattle. All states and their soils are different. |
