When it comes to calving, timely assistance can cut calf death losses by half and help boost the cow's reproductive health after delivery, according to a Kansas State University animal scientist.

"Timely, correct obstetrical assistance has been estimated to reduce calf death losses by over 50 percent," said Sandy Johnson, K-State Research and Extension livestock specialist. "Prolonged duration of labor or late calving assistance delays the cow's return to estrus after calving and decreases subsequent pregnancy rates."

The topic is the focus of 9 calving schools to be hosted in different locations around the state during December and January.  The local school will be held December 15 in Holton.  At the Northeast Kansas Heritage Complex, starting at 6:30 p.m. The Northeast Heritage Complex is located half a mile west of U.S. Highway 75 on 214th Road, Holton, KS 66436.

"Producers can do several things to minimize potential losses related to calving," Johnson said. "Adequate nutrition for the cow and developing fetus before calving is the foundation. Timely and correct obstetrical assistance when needed increases calf survival and speeds the cow's ability to rebreed."

Veterinarian’s AJ Tarpoff, KSU Beef Extension Veterinarian and Dr Dave Rethorst, KSU Beef Cattle Institute, will give the presentations at each school.  Topics will include a review of the normal calving process, how and when to intervene, and how to manage a difficult birth. Cow nutrition and real life examples of the effect of nutrition during pregnancy on calving management, as well as the lifetime health and performance of the calf, will be part of the program.

As well as demonstrating different calving presentations using the real life model cow, and her two rubber calves. 

Spaces are limited, please call the local Extension office or email jholthau@ksu.edu.