Synopses & Reviews
Heather Smith Thomas, a lifelong cattle rancher and author of several previous books for more experienced farmers, offers a succinct laypersons guide to the basics of raising a small herd of cattle, whether for meat or dairy products. She outlines organic and natural farming methods and covers all the information needed to get started and be successful.
Getting Started with Beef & Dairy Cattle encourages new and beginning farmers to start small and start right. Thomas explains the basics of selecting and raising a calf, along with feeding, shelter, and care guidelines. She covers breeding and calving, as well as tips for managing a herd through the seasons. There is basic health care information for preventing disease and addressing common ailments. For those raising beef cattle, Thomas offers guidelines for butchering; for those raising dairy cattle, there are step-by-step guidelines on milking.
Review
"...will help inexperienced farmers select the breed that is best-suited for their goals."
- Angus Journal
"With the information in this book you can reap the pleasures and rewards of using your land to raise healthy, happy and productive animals." - American Small Farm
About the Author
Heather Smith Thomas raises cattle and horses on her family ranch in Salmon, Idaho. She is the author of 10 books and thousands of articles on animal health care. Her books include Essential Guide to Calving, Getting Started with Beef & Dairy Cattle, and Storey's Guide to Raising Beef Cattle.