1) General
Youth interested in raising dairy animals should be prepared to invest the proper time and money. Select dairy animals according to physical appearance, pedigree and birth date. Visit breeders who can tell you the sire, dam, date of birth and immunizations given the animal.
2) Basic Equipment
Buckets, rope halter, soft and stiff brushes.
3) Shelter & Pen
House animals in shelter that is draft-free in winter and cool in summer. Stall should be at least 10' x 10'. Use sand, sawdust or straw for bedding. A lot 30' x 40' adjoining shelter provides enough exercise space for one calf. Lot and shelter should be fenced and well drained.
4) Feeding
Be consistent in feeding. Animals are fed according to age and breed. Young calves are fed milk. Calves 42 days to 3 months are fed 2-5 lbs of calf starter and all the hay they can eat. Calves 3 to 24 months are fed 2-5 lbs of a growing ration and all the hay they can eat. Fresh water should be available at all times.
5) Disease/Parasite Control
Vaccinate for Blackleg and Malignant Edema before 3 months of age and Brucellosis and Leptospirosis between 4 and 6 months. Consult a veterinarian for other vaccines needed in your area and for medications that control worms, flies, lice and cattle grubs.
Two major calf diseases are scours and pneumonia. Routinely check your animals for lethargic behavior, droopiness and diarrhea.
6) Fitting for Show
Fitting includes getting to know your animal as well as washing, shearing, hoof trimming and performing other tasks that allow you to exhibit your animal at its best. You'll find the most important part of fitting is halter breaking your animal.
Your 4-H/county agent is available to assist you with your
project.
References
Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service Publication #2393. Introduction to the 4-H Dairy Project. Prepared by: Kenneth Spoto, County Agent, East/West Feliciana; updated 04/02