What kind of set up do I need?

The general rule of thumb for smaller breeds of cattle is 1/2 acre per head. We always recommend having appropriate fencing (woven wire, board fencing, barbed wire, etc.) and accessibility to shade (shed, barn, trees, etc.). We always recommend having a smaller space for your new calf (stall in the barn, small lot, etc.) when you first bring them home so that they can get used to their environment and you. This also makes it a lot easier to monitor them for the first weeks for any signs of illness or stress. We also recommend having a cattle chute setup, although this is not always feasible for everyone, it makes it much easier to work your cattle when needed.

Can I have my calf with other animals?

Our calves have been shipped all over the country and have gone to all types of farms that include various types of animals. While they do generally well with donkeys, goats, llamas, etc. they are herd animals and do BEST with at least one other bovine. We always recommend having at least 2 cows/calves. They both do not have to be miniature cattle or the same breed, but another bovine.

What are my must haves to have on hand when my new calf arrives?

Assuming your space is already prepared, you will want to have your feed, minerals, hay (depending on set up and time of year), and an established relationship with your veternarian. Your new calf will come up to date on vaccinations, worming, etc. by our program and veterinarian, but you will want to ensure that you keep up with their boosters/annual vaccinations. You should absolutely have a thermometer on hand. Typically the first question your vet will ask you is if your animal has a fever. Having a relationship with your veternarian is key.

We always keep a supply of meds on hand and your veternarian can assist you with your must haves depending on your comfort level.

What and how much do I feed my calf?

We send each of our cattle buyers with a bag of starter feed. We have our own feed made at our local feed mill, but you can transition your calf to any starter/grower feed. We often get asked how much to feed. We always recommend not over feeding and our calves typically get 1 large scoop of feed per day. This can be adjusted based on the weight of your calf, but not overfeeding is key. Depending on the time of year, your calf will need to have access to hay, water, and mineral at all times. Cattle treats are also a must :)

What vaccinations/testing has my calf had?

We follow our veternarian in our area’s recommendation for vaccinations. Your calf will have received nasalgen at birth and Covexin, Bovishield, blackleg, and a pinkeye vaccine at weaning. We will also give a booster prior to travel. Our calves are tested for BVD and BVL and all have a health certificate regardless of if they are traveling out of state or not.

Calf Transport

We utilize a few livestock transporters and have shipped calves all over the United States. We also transport within a reasonable distance ourselves. If you are picking up your calf, we will not load calves into cars, vans, or dog kennels. You will be expected to have sufficient transportation via trailer.

I just brought my new calf home now what…

We get this question a lot. Here at Winding Brooke, when you purchase a calf from us, you can be assured that we do 4-6 weeks of halter training and socialization with your calf. We do all of the heavy lifting, BUT to keep your calf halter broke and socialized-you will need to continue to put in the work. There is a common misconception that these cattle are like dogs and that is just not the case. They are a very docile breed of cattle, but they will never be a dog. They also all have very different personalities-just like humans! Some of them will adapt to a new environment and you very quickly and others will take longer to build that trust! Our calves are all well socialized and bred for docility. Also-bulls are never pets regardless of how cute they might be.