[Paul and Caroline]

Hi

I have just 7 acres on which I keep a small flock of sheep (9 Ewes). I would love to raise some cattle however I am well aware (mainly as a result of advice from you guys) that I don't really have enough land to accommodate very many. I have started looking at the possibility of raising bull calves, just 2 or 3, for the rose veal market. I am surrounded by dairy farms so sourcing them is not a problem. I really am just in the research stage and would be grateful for any 'do's and don'ts'. I have a 30 metre long shed with good ventilation and a good grass yield from my land.

Thanks in anticipation

[twizzel]

Do make sure they come from high health dairy herds- BVD free, low risk Johnes, IBR, TB free with good colostrum management.


Do make sure you research the end market for them at a time when the beef price is volatile. And work out a realistic costing for them including vet & med costs.


Do make sure you’ve got adequate handling facilities.

[Buttermilk]

Are you able to market the meat yourself?  If not you will need to tie in with someone who can otherwise it is a send to market job with the chance that no one wishes to buy for rose veal.  Most buyers will prefer a regular supply not just the odd beasts every year.

[SallyintNorth]

Keep young calves dry.  Keep them in if it’s wet and let them out when it’s dry. 

Don’t buy them at less than a month old.  The majority that make it to a month and look healthy will do well with the right treatment. (But an occasional one will die, however well you look after them and however much you know.  So 3 better than two, so they’ve still got a pal if one dies.)

Do not pet them.  If you simply must, keep you hands off their heads completely.  You do not want them butting you and head contact encourages this.   They will love having the top of their tail scritched.  And maybe their shoulders. 

I wouldn’t hand feed either.   Always insist on respect; no pushing you.