I dont post much, but I dont like a lot of the advice given in this thread so Ill tell you what 30 years has taught me.
- Put the calf in a stall 10x10 or so.
- Use a rope halter and stand in the middle of the stall and just throw the rope at him, on his back, legs, head... this is used to desensitize the calf, during this same time I will use a show stick to rub across their back and under their belly, also to desensitize
- I will then use the show stick and hook the top of the rope halter and slip it on the calfs head. I will let him drag it for a few days, but during this same time I am still throwing a rope and rubbing a stick on him. and i will grab the end of the halter to pull to introduce that to him.
- I then will tie him up toward the bottom of a post (incase he flips and falls wont hurt himself) i am still rubbing him with a stick and using the show stick ( i never leave them tied overnight until i c an get them to walk
- getting them to walk is easy. Simply hold them off of water for a half a day, and walk them to water. It is very important to pull and them take a step and release pressure as a reward. the first few timeas are the longest, but they catch on quick. After watering i will pull to a tie rack and wash them, used to desensitize again.
- then walk back to stall and feed him. He soon learns when you walk him it means he is getting food and water.
THINGS NOT TO DOl use a chute to catch him, tractors, 4wheelers, tying them and (letting them fight it out)