How do you wean a calf?

There are several methods out there that are at your disposal to wean a calf:

1. Spiked nose-ring with the spikes pointing outward that is placed in the calf's nose (no need to poke any holes in between the calf's nostrils because it is a temporary tool). Calf and mother does not need to be separated; the nose ring takes advantage natural weaning by encouraging the cow to kick at the calf if he tries to nurse. Works 95% of the time, and is THE less stressful method of weaning.

2. Fence-line weaning: Calves are placed on one side of a fence and the cows on another. Calves and cows are able to smell/see each other but not allow them to nurse. Fences have to be in good shape and strong to prevent any "smart" calves or cows that figure away to get back to their mother or son/daughter, respectively. Less stress on cows and calves, but not as #1.

3. Separate pasture weaning: Similar to #2 only the cows and calves are farther away from each other, by a few hundred yards to a mile or so. Often this is done so that cows and calves cannot hear nor see each other.

4. Selling calves right off the cows: Similar to #2 and #3, except the calves are separated from their mommas and put on a cattle liner to be shipped to another farm that has bought them for backgrounding them up prior to being sent to the feedlot prior to being slaughtered for beef. Works 100% of the time, but least recommended method because of increased stress on both cows and calves, creating higher potential for sickness to occur.