mjlabs
Member
Crazy Farmgirl":1ytdc0pv said:If there are farmers that you know near you the best thing may be to go to them and offer to help in exchange for knowledge and experience, or at least form a solid relationship with them so that when problems crop up (and they will) you'll have someone to turn to for advice. Most farmers I have met are more than willing to share their knowlege and if your willing to give them a hand they will be more likely to do the same for you.
As for the vet you want to have them out BEFORE you have problems. If they know you and your cattle they will be more likely to help you in a pinch over the phone, if they have never been there you may find that you will have to have them come out for the simplest things. Be sure to ask him/her about vaccinations recommended for your area and common parasite/viral/bacterial problems common in your area and how to prevent or treat. Also share your animals experience with them (if they don't know you) so they will have an idea of your capabilities in treating animals, they will be more likely to prescibe things to have on hand if they know your not a newbie whose never given a shot before. A good vet is worth his/her weight in gold but if they don't trust you they will cost you a boatload of gold.
As far as the cows I would do as you and others have stated and find mild tempered bred cows or steers from a local farmer. They will save you alot of headaches until you have more experience and work the "kinks" out your plans and property.
Good Luck and most of all Have Fun !!
Thanks for the reply! As I mentioned before I will probably try and give all the shots/meds I can myself as I have with other animals to avoid vet cost but I see what your saying about when you NEED the vet, you made some good points. As far as advice I have family/friends that I can get all the info I need, HOWEVER I was curious to get info from other folks to see what advice I could get and I like talking to people on here