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Yesterday, a neighbor called to tell me that one of our calves was hanging by himself and was not acting right. Late in the day, I drove to the pasture to check out the big March calf, and he can't stand. Both hind leg joints seem to be swelled. I don't know if he has back or spinal problems, or if it is the swelling in the legs that inhibits his actions.

I am wondering if the calf got stepped on by a bull. Another thought is rattlesnake bite. The cattle were all drinking out of a big muddy pond on the hot day before yesterday, so contaminated water could be the problem. Possibly a toxic weed? I am open to any ideas or suggestions.

The calf is several miles from home, in a four section pasture. His mother may or may not be with him (I'm not sure he is able to suck). My dilema is whether to just go put the calf out of his misery, or to load it and travel forty miles to get veterinary assistance (and the resulting bill).


Calf unable to get up

Hock joints are both swelled

He can't stand, even when I tail him up
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