Raising Calves: A Glimpse into Ballerina Farm's Dairy Practices

Welcome to the Dairy: A Unique Approach to Calf Care

At Ballerina Farm, they're pioneering a new kind of dairy – one where mothers and calves can stay together, graze on pasture, and receive attentive care. This philosophy extends to every aspect of their operation, especially how they raise their calves. Join us as we explore their heartwarming process of feeding young calves, a routine brimming with care, family involvement, and a dedication to creating a more nurturing environment.

The Warm Milk Routine: A Step-by-Step Guide

This isn't your typical dairy operation, and the calf-feeding process reflects that. Here’s a breakdown of what they do, offering insights you can apply to your own animal care endeavors (even if you’re not raising calves!).

Warming the Bottles

The process begins with warming refrigerated milk bottles. Ballerina Farm uses a simple method: warming the bottles in a sink filled with hot water. This ensures the milk is at a comfortable temperature for the calves, promoting better digestion and overall comfort.

Diverting Milk from the Robot

To supplement the warmed bottles, they divert milk from a cow being milked by a robotic milking machine. This clever technique allows them to provide ample milk for all the calves, demonstrating resourcefulness and efficiency. The process involves briefly redirecting the cow's milk into buckets, then transferring it to the bottles.

Bottle Preparation & Delivery

Once the milk is prepared, nipples are attached, and the bottles are loaded onto a cart ready for delivery. A helpful tool is used to drain the hot water from the sink, preventing burns – a crucial safety tip for anyone working around hot liquids.

Feeding Time: A Family Affair

The delivery of the warm milk is a joyful experience for the calves, who eagerly await their feeding. The volume of milk varies depending on the calf's age; younger calves receive smaller bottles, while others get a full gallon twice daily. It's a true party in the calf barn!

Calf Interaction & Care

Beyond the feeding, the team emphasizes the importance of interaction. The calves are incredibly friendly and enjoy being pet and loved on, strengthening the bond between humans and animals. Maintaining clean water and feed is also a priority, ensuring the calves' overall well-being.

The Vision: Mother-Calf Bonding

Ballerina Farm’s ultimate goal is to keep mothers and calves together from birth. This is a departure from traditional commercial dairies, which often separate calves for management purposes. They are actively experimenting with this approach, seeking ways to create a system that prioritizes the natural bond between mothers and their offspring.

Beyond the Basics: Community & Magic!

The routine isn’t all work; it's filled with moments of joy and connection. The children involved in the process delight in the calf care, and impromptu magic tricks add a touch of whimsy to the evening. It’s a testament to the power of family and community in creating a positive and fulfilling work environment. Also read our [companion article] on pasture management for a holistic approach to animal care. Source: Ballerina Farm - Feeding the new calves fresh, warm, milk at the dairy