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Book Description:
Standing in the middle of a stream while saving a cow’s life is one example of my many experiences as a bovine veterinarian. I share this story and other interesting reflections on my life as a cow doctor, husband, father, and friend in this book. I think you will enjoy it. -Charles E. Gardner D.V.M.
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Want to read an excerpt from the book? See below.
As I stood in the gurgling water, I monitored the cow’s response. Within a few minutes, I felt grateful to see the positive sign of muscle twitching. Her heartbeat remained strong and steady. Gerald and I conversed about various aspects of his operation. His farm was like many others of that era, being more of a lifestyle than a business operation. He had roughly 30 adult animals, and enough younger ones to replace the ones that left the herd for one reason or another. Gerald, his wife, and his son provided all of the labor.
The farm netted enough income to let them all live comfortably, albeit conservatively. A common maxim of that time was “If you take good care of your cows, your cows will take care of you.” Over the next forty years, this type of farm has gradually been forced out of business. While taking good care of the cows is more important than ever, it is not enough. Many smaller “family farms” are still viable, but today the owners must be competent business-men or women as well as good cow managers.
After giving the calcium, Gerald and I helped the cow into a sitting position, and a few minutes later she rose and started walking to the barn. By now the sun was beginning to warm the cool morning. I took satisfaction from knowing I had saved a cow’s life and contributed to the success of Gerald’s dairy farm. This is what it’s all about.