Sep 19, 2018
Normal Delivery
The first step in providing assistance during calving is assessing the problem. There are several common situations encountered when delivering a calf. In a normal delivery, the calf’s forelegs and head protrude first about 70 percent of the time. The other 30 percent of the time, the calf’s hind legs and tail come first. In this case, always make sure the tail is protruding with the hind legs.
When in doubt, call your veterinarian. The outcome is always more favorable if assistance is provided sooner rather than later. Waiting too long unnecessarily risks the life of the cow or heifer and her calf.
Read here to learn more about how to manage a successful calving season.
Download a PDF of Managing a Successful Calving Season, ANR-1403.