Tagging

Tom and Carol got back yesterday afternoon. They had been away at Calgary (which is actually only 5-6 hours from where we live! Crazy, right?!) with Katie, Josh and Josh's family for a hockey game and some well-deserved vacation time.

Meanwhile, back at the ranch, Jeff and I were working hard with calving in full swing. Of course, the busiest day of calving of the season (so far, anyway) occurred while Tom and Carol were away.  We had thirteen calves in a 24-hour time span. Miraculously, no cows had problems.  I helped Jeff take turns checking the cows, and going with him during the day to check them.  I also helped him feed the cows and tag young calves.

"Tagging" is a word that actually encompasses several activities, which are essential to accomplish for each new calf.  These activities can include at least two of each of the following: 1) Applying an ear-tag with the new calf's number, 2) Weighing the calf, 3) Applying de-horning paste, if necessary, 4) Banding the male calves (essentially castrating the into steers).  The calf must be held down while this all takes place.  This was my job.  These animals may look small, but most of them weigh between 75 and 90 pounds.  I found it to be a difficult (and tiring!) job to keep them subdued, and it was once again proven to me how woefully out of shape I am when it comes to upper body strength.  Jeff did a great job with banding and tagging, which can at times be very trying tasks.  He was also very patient with my lack of strength and the difficulty I had keeping the calf from struggling too much.  With each calf we tagged, however, we both got better at our respective tasks, and by yesterday morning, I thought we had the whole process running pretty smoothly.

Here's some photos taken within the past week or so.  Enjoy!

This is one of my favorite calves of the year so far. I love the color pattern.

Every Ranch Girl's Favorite Accessory-- Overshoes!! 

Jeff is holding this calf so Tom can tag him.

Mama and calf. Love the calf's white streak on his face!

Weighing the calf with the measuring tape.

A recent sunset :)

Out among the pairs, Sweetgrass Hills in the background.

For more calving photos, check out my facebook page!