The Roughest Hood

The roughest hood for anyone I believe is parenthood. This seems to hold true for different species. Whether it's the tiniest goat kids "losing" their moms when they all join the herd after being released from the nursery, the bull calf whose mama is having a hard time letting him go from nursing, and dogs with their pups. It can be found around the farm.

Starting with the goat kids, we had three that were old enough to join the rest of the herd. The mamas absolutely hate being locked up in the nursery, so once the weather was clear and warm enough, they were released. Today was the release day and I can still hear one kid calling for his/her mom for the upteenth time. I've checked, the goat kids do find their moms, all is well.

Rory, our first born male (steer) on the farm, has weaned himself off from his mother Ciarin, except Ciarin has literally been feeding her calves for three years and is not quite sure what to do without feeding them. I have no doubt she'll have another calf soon enough, but for now she should enjoy the rest!

Lastly, the puppies. We've gotten the results for Tootsie Roll, but still waiting on Teddy Bear's health panel results. One genetic marker for potential liver damage in old age (chances were below normal), and it's just something the vet will keep an eye on when Tootsie gets to her golden years. Anyhow, Runt was being picked on by Smoothie and I first scruffed Smoothie and told her no. This wasn't good enough for Tootsie. She decided to keep discipling Smoothie the whole rest of the walk. It's difficult to explain how she disciplines, but it's similar to scruffing, but also towering over her every step. As is customary, the runt of the litter does indeed get picked on no matter how much the alpha (me) tries to prohibit this. At least they got lots of fun sunshine and outdoor time today!

I think this is Alice behind the weeds, but she's taking after her dad, Teddy. He likes to "hide" behind the weeds and then pop out to whoever walks by. Fortunately, there are plenty of weeds here for everyone!