Cow Owner Overjoyed After Watching Calf Take First Steps After a Difficult Birth
Reaching a milestone with a pet is one of life's greatest treasures, but it feels so much more special after overcoming a big obstacle. Whether it's a dog learning to walk again after a miraculous injury recovery or a cat celebrating their 18th birthday at home after being missing for years, there are so many special stories that could touch any pet owner's heart. And this story from a Tennessee farm fits the bill perfectly!
Passionate equestrian and farm animal owner Katie Van Slyke had so many reasons to celebrate on December 26 when she arrived to help one of her cows who had gone into labor, but things quickly made a turn for the worse when the baby's positioning made birth rather difficult. Luckily, Katie was able to intervene quickly, ensuring a safe delivery for them both! Still, the best moment was yet to come when the newborn calf was feeling a bit stronger.
Aww! The newborn calf is so tiny and lanky, and it's so heartwarming to see him standing up on his own for the very first time. Clearly, his mama is as caring and attentive as can be, so this baby boy cow has plenty of grown-ups looking out for him. As the last baby of the season, he's going to be so pampered and fussed over until the cow farm welcomes the new babies next year.
Related: Farmer Shares Tender Moment with Mama Cow After Saving Baby From 'Respiratory Distress'
Commenters are sharing love for the calf, relief for everyone's safety, and even praise for Katie's attentiveness during the birth. If she hadn't been there, who knows what would've happened! Fortunately, this experienced mini farm animal owner knows when she's needed, and she arrived at the birth well-prepared. Now, this baby cow who doesn't have a name yet is keeping both his mama and his owner busy.
Calves Stand, Walk, and Nurse Within Hours of Birth
As the bovine experts at Michigan State University explain, newborn calves typically stand within 30 minutes to 2 hours after birth. That's very different than other species, like dogs and cats, but is very normal for large farm animals like cows, horses, and donkeys.
Once standing, newborn calves will figure out the nursing process. We even saw it in this video! This patient mama cow nudged the newborn toward her udder several times before he figured it out, and now @katievanslyke can rest easy knowing the tiny calf is healthy and thriving. In fact, it was all thanks to her help during his complicated birth that he's even around, so she really deserves a pat on the back.
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