MONTE VISTA— With calving season upon farmers and ranchers an important school was offered for free at the 2018 Southern Rocky Mountain Agricultural Conference. Veterinarians Dr. Tyler Ratzlaff and Dr. Curtis Crawford of Alpine Veterinary Clinic and Hospital presented the San Luis Valley Calving School at the Vali 3 Theater on Tuesday, Feb. 6.

The school was designed as both a refresher for those with experience and a good education for those beginning. Crawford took much of the time to explain good practices in calving, when to assist, proper methods, danger signs and when it may be time to call for the help of a veterinarian.

Crawford used the carcass of a female cow to demonstrate how a rancher can safely feel around the mother’s womb. He also explained the difference in calf births and which ones may be dangerous and which are normal. For example, he explained a breach birth with the baby coming out feet first, but also shared a dangerous breach birth such as the calf coming out rear end first which would then require a c-section.

The veterinarian also explained proper care of the mother before, during and after she gives birth. He told attendees to also watch for prolapsed organs and showed the audience photos of what those situations look like on female cows.

Crawford also reminded attendees of what not to do during the birth or during assistance. He informed them that doing things such as using a farm truck or tractor to pull out the baby is plain animal cruelty. He suggested if there is that much difficulty it is time to call the veterinarian to determine what needs to be done.

Ratzlaff shared information on nutrition for the female cows. He recommended certain products that will have a positive effect on the outcomes.

Overall, the calving school was an informative experience for the audience. The valuable knowledge will be a grand help as ranchers begin to help their cows deliver the first calves of the season.