Feeling Fluffy
It is true that Highlands are well adapted to the extremely cold temperatures we have experienced in Vermont this winter. Their double coat of hair usually insulates the cattle well despite temperatures falling to double digits below zero, with wind chill temperatures considerably lower.
Keeping our Highland cattle’s hair fluffed up helps the down undercoat do its best work. We worry most about calves and younger animals getting chilled. Just like human babies, their ability to regulate body temperature is not yet fully mature. Ray uses our big hair blower to remove any ice that might have built up on the outer coat, as well as any moisture that may have permeated the lower down coat proximal to the skin.
The blow dryer has two speeds. Ray starts with the lower speed so calves can get used to the noise of the blower and the warm air directed at them. Almost immediately the Highlands love the blower and enjoy the higher speed, not just to keep them warm and dry but to remove any dust that might have accumulated in the hair near the skin. Ray is careful not use the blow dryer too close to their ears. We probably would not like loud air blowing in our ears either!
When visitors stay at Highland House Farm Stay, they love getting the chance to blow dry some of our Highland cattle. If you have not tried using your hair dryer on your fold, give it a try and see how it improves the quality of life for your furry friends!
Highland House Farm Stay Greenfield Highland Beef Farmstay Capital City Farmers' Market Montpelier Vermont Mid Atlantic Highland Association Vermont Agency of Agriculture #highlandcow #farming #farmlife #greenfieldhighlandbeef