Just like any new addition to a family, baby calves need a lot of attention and care-taking to ensure they're healthy and safe. It takes about three months for a calf's immune system to fully develop, so dairy farmers make sure to keep calves in very clean environments and feed them the right amount of milk each day so they will grow strong and healthy.
Farmer Andres feeding baby Cayla on the Farm
When a baby calf is first born, the mother produces a special kind of milk called colostrum. Colostrum is packed with antibodies and protein and helps spur the calf's immune system and strength. Dairy farmers have to make sure that the baby calf gets a full gallon of colostrum within the first few hours of life. As the calf continues to grow, the farmer continues to monitor how much milk their calves drink. Without careful watch, dairy calves will often drink so much milk they will make themselves sick.
Here on the farm, Cayla is staying in a straw-filled pen and enjoying the love and attention she is getting from staff and visitors. Stop by and say hello!
