At 09:30 this morning, most of the cattle were grazing in the eastern pasture of Camp 45, enjoying the lush green grass. A handful were lying down, relaxing and chewing their cud. Cows 72 and 940, along with steer 220, were resting in the shade of the trees in the southeast corner, while youngster 217 was resting to their west. Many of the cattle took turns to wander over to greet me and enjoy some strokes and rubs, with youngster 222 being especially affectionate and offering gentle head rubs after a long neck rub.
Over time, more of the cattle lay down to rest and chew their cud, gradually spreading out across the southern half of the pasture. Cows 72 and 940 soon wandered over to say hello, both enjoying some attention. Steers 217 and 220 also wandered over to rest with the main group. The cattle were all happy, relaxed, and looking well.
Unfortunately, just before 11:00, a couple of dogs ran into the pasture from the Gelvert side of the fence line, causing a number of the cattle to get to their feet. I suspect my shouts for the dog owner to get her dogs under control may also have caused a few more to stand up. Most of the herd moved into the trees by the fence line, with the seven Sussex cattle standing together near the edge of the path. The cattle quickly settled, with a number wandering back out to lie down or graze.
I had just started to say my goodbyes at 11:15 when the team from HIWWT turned up to gather the cows for their hoof trimming, which I was keen to observe, so I stayed to lend a hand.
The cattle all had their hooves trimmed and were fly sprayed. Yearling 271's incorrect left ear tags were replaced. A small number of the cattle had minor cuts and grazes caused by horned herd mates while in the cattle crush, which are expected to heal without any issues.
The cattle were walked back onto Caesar's via the gate to the north of the covered reservoir at 16:00 this afternoon, where they received some treats.
The cows were all good today.
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