| T O P I C R E V I E W |
| StavigsWilderness |
Posted - Nov 08 2021 : 11:46:48 PM
My sister and I are just starting to consider adding a cow to our homestead but we are a little worried it’s too over our heads. We have only raised chickens and quails so we’d like as much information as we can find before talking such a momentous step!
If there are any books that you found to be especially insightful on keeping a family cow, I’d love to check those out! |
| 5 L A T E S T R E P L I E S (Newest First) |
| MaryJanesNiece |
Posted - Nov 10 2021 : 12:23:07 PM
Definitely agree with Michele. Have people around who can help you out when needed. Also remember they are like kids and there is no one right way to raise them. Do what works best for you and the cow. I’m super excited for you. We love our 2 boys and it’s been the best experience ever.
Krista |
| windypines |
Posted - Nov 09 2021 : 5:25:12 PM
It would also be helpful to find someone local you can watch and learn from. Having cows is a 365 day a year job. It is a commitment for sure. Good luck.
Farming in WI
Michele
FGOTM June2019
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| Brian |
Posted - Nov 09 2021 : 09:36:26 AM
The best place to start would be with the best book on keeping a cow, making cheeses, etc. MaryJane’s Milk Cow Kitchen:
https://shop.maryjanesfarm.org/Milk-Cow-Kitchen
Also, MaryJane has a lovely all-things-cow chatroom packed with years of advice and observations:
https://www.heritagejersey.org/chatroom/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=41420
You can give me a call (888-750-6004) if you have any questions!
Thanks,
Brian |
| sherone_13 |
Posted - Nov 09 2021 : 06:13:39 AM
We have used this one in the past for beef cattle. "The Complete Guide to Small Scale Farming Everything You Need to Know About Raising Beef and Dairy Cattle, Rabbits, Ducks, and Other Small Animals" by Melissa Nelson. There is also a "Dummies" book that I've seen around. If you are thinking dairy cows, MaryJane's book, "Milk Cow Kitchen" is amazing!!!
Sherone
Lean on me, when you're not strong, And I'll be your friend, I'll help you carry on, For it won't be long, 'Til I'm gonna need, Somebody to lean on.
Farmgirl Sister #93
FGOTM August 2021
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| ddmashayekhi |
Posted - Nov 09 2021 : 03:41:49 AM
I'm not a farmer, but I did enjoy reading Rosamund Young's book, "The Secret Lives of Cows". This book was more about the cows she raised during her lifetime as a farmer and how distinct each one of the cows personalities were. People don't realize that cows are very smart and can be quite the characters.
The other farmers who have raised cows, especially my cousin Windy Pines (Michele) can recommend some great books and advice to go long with keeping a family cow. Have fun researching and getting ready for your new family addition!
Dawn in IL
"Every leaf speaks bliss to me, fluttering from the autumn tree." Emily Bronte |
