At Vistamont Farms, we pride ourselves on our gentle cattle handling practices. We continue to learn about ways to handle the cattle in low-stress environments because this makes for healthy, happy cows. Last fall, we attended a conference with guest speaker, Dr. Temple Grandin (professor, animal behaviorist, author, activitist, and more). She shared some excellent tips for handling the cattle in gentle ways during situations that are often scary for cows, and we try to implement these practices each time we work with the herd. Because of this, often times all we have to do is call the cows and they come running to visit.
This is one of our bulls. He like to get treats from Harry and is willing to eat right out of his hand. Because we know that bulls are unpredictable, only Harry is allowed to get this close, but they sure are friends.
This is one of our new heifers. She is the sweetest thing ever. She loves the girls and comes right over to see what they have to give her. She licks their hands and lets them pet her head even out in the pasture.
It's important for our cattle to feel safe, but it also important that we feel safe when handling them.
Gentle handling practices ensures safety goes both ways.
If you are in the Washington, PA area on Thursday afternoons between 3:30-6:30 p.m. stop by and see us at the Main Street Farmer's Market. Weekly specials on a variety of products are featured. There are also many other booths providing local produce, breads, goodies, and other yummy treats. What a great way to spend a summer afternoon.
