We wanted to take a quick minute and let you know about a product that has revolutionized our weaning process.

We were skeptical to see if this rubber flapped nose weaner would really work,  be effective and worth the extra trip through the chute.

We are happy to say that the results have far exceeded our expectations. Here is a picture of the flap.

When we get the calves up to vaccinate them, we simply put the flap in place. It is not harmful to the calf or the mother.

We then turn the calf back out and he goes back to Mama only to find his nursing attempts are impeded.

We found that the mother, bless her heart, does become uncomfortably full now that her calf can’t nurse and begins to bellow due to her discomfort but this will happen whether her calf is beside her or if he is separated.

The calf, however, is fine and dandy.

He is able to maintain constant contact with Mama and there is no stress for him at all. He is not bothered by the nose flap and is able to eat and drink naturally as the flap is out of the way as his head tilts down to graze or drink.

The flap only keeps him from nursing as it falls in front of his mouth when he tries to nurse vertically. He is a cool cucumber as he sports his new apparatus and this gentle weaning process is a breeze for him.

No stress, no upper respiratory problems, no pneumonia which we consider an all around plus!

In about four days they go back through the chute and the flap is removed. They are moved to their new pasture and never even look back. It is a beautiful transition for them.

We have used traditional weaning practices, (separating into different pastures, using the almanac, etc.) and always had sick calves. Now, we will never go back.

I am including a link to the nose flap we use from Valley Vet.

Happy weaning!

https://www.valleyvet.com/ct_detail.html?pgguid=30e07afe-7b6a-11d5-a192-00b0d0204ae5

Amanda Roberts