Preparing for Fall Calving Season – Vet Guide 2025 🐄🛠️

Hello! I’m Dr Duncan Houston BVSc. As fall approaches and calving season nears, ranchers must prepare meticulously. Small oversights—like a broken chute or a missing calving kit—at midnight can lead to disaster. This 2025 guide covers pen checks, calving kit essentials, safe use of mechanical pullers, and criteria for calling your veterinarian. Finished with expert support from Ask A Vet, you’ll be ready for whatever the season brings.

1. Inspect Pens and Chutes ⚙️

• Walk fence lines, gates, and corners—check for signs of wear or damage.
• Test squeeze chutes under full pressure to ensure smooth operation.
• Ensure safety features are functional—head gates lock properly, no sharp edges.
• Consider emergency lighting and night access paths for unexpected calving events.

2. Expect Calving Emergencies ⏰

• Fall calving often coincides with weather variability—plan for mud, rain, or early frosts.
• Pre-determine who's on call, who assists, and who to call if additional help is needed.
• A calm, smooth response reduces stress and improves outcomes for cow and calf.

3. Assemble a Complete Calving Kit 🧰

• Obstetrical gloves (28–36″) for hygiene and reach
• Obstetrical chains & handles for traction
• Mechanical calf puller—must be well-maintained
• Gentle obstetrical lubricant
• Gentle iodine solution (20 mL/gallon in water) or antiseptic spray
• Clean towels, disposable drapes, and rope halters
• Non-detergent soap or vet-grade lubricant for pulling

4. Learn Safe Puller Techniques 🐂

• 🔗 Chains should be threaded over both pasterns—not fetlocks—to distribute traction evenly.
• 🚫 Never pull against an undilated cervix or abnormal calf positioning.
• ▶️ Apply gradual, steady pressure; don’t yank or jerk.
• 🛑 Know when to stop—refer to one hour in Stage II for heifers or 30 min for mature cows.
• 📚 Regularly train with your veterinarian to stay sharp.

5. Know When to Call the Vet 🚨

• Covering the amniotic sac or partial presentation—don’t force a pull.
• No visible progress after proper traction applied.
• Abnormal presentations—e.g. head turned, crossed legs.
• Calf stuck at the vulva more than recommended time.
• Foul odours or tissue damage—signs of infection or rejection.

6. Ask A Vet Fall Calving Assistance 📱

• 🗓 On-farm training sessions for chute, puller techniques, and sterile handling
• 📋 Checklist templates to track readiness and equipment inspections
• 🚨 Real-time consultation during tricky calvings via call or livestream
• 📈 Data tracking for incidence, outcomes, and lessons to improve next season

7. Post-Calving Care Tips 🍼

• Monitor cow–calf bonding and nursing within 1 hour of birth.
• Check calf viability—standing, breathing, clean and active.
• Disinfect the naval with iodine solution soon after birth.
• Record each event—time, intervention, outcome—for evaluation.

8. Fall-Specific Considerations 🌤️

• Fall weather changes can be extreme—prepare for both heat and frost.
• Provide shelter, bedding, and windbreaks for vulnerable calves.
• Ensure water sources don’t freeze overnight.
• Plan for pasture rotation as grass quality shifts seasonally.

9. 2025 Key Take‑Home Points

• Inspect gear and pens before season starts
• Have a complete, clean, well-maintained calving kit
• Train on proper puller techniques with your vet
• Know when to stop and call for backups
• Partner with Ask A Vet for hands-on training and emergency support

Conclusion

Successful fall calving depends on preparation, practice, and response. A reliable chute, a well-stocked calving kit, and puller know-how are essential. Above all, recognizing your limits and calling for veterinary backup can mean the difference between life and loss. Let Ask A Vet train, support, and stand with you—making the 2025 fall calving season your safest and most productive yet. 🐄✅