2006-07-22 08:58:11 · 9 answers · asked by imjustacheshirecat 2 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Biology
If the vet does it when the cow is giving birth and having difficulties expelling the fetus, the vet is trying to help the process by making sure the calf-fetus is in the right position for an easy,trouble-free birth and the umbilical isn't interfering in some way.
If he does it during the spring check up after the period when the bull has been let loose on the herd to fertilize the cows, then he does it to check if the cow is pregnant or not. It's cheaper than other methods and its very quick and doesn't harm her. When the herd of cows are checked, this tells the farmer-rancher-owner how many calves to expect to be born and also how good the bull did his work. The cows are restrained in a cow trap, esp if she has horns and to keep her from kicking the vet who has to get directly behind her. Its also an opportunity for ranch hands to help vaccinate the cows, give them antibiotics and deworming medicine, and even dehorn the cows.
I know all this because I did it all as part of the training I received in a one year course to become a degreed veterinary paramedic to assist vets do their work and to take care of my 6 companion dogs. If some find imagining the procedure disgusting, I can assure you it is good for the cow,the calf, the owner and us of us who eat beef and drink milk.
Vets are special people and should be appreciated as much as medical doctors treating humans. Anyone who has had an ill pet or has had to deal with the end of life situations of their pets knows this.
Too bad soo many have no real connection to the natural world and the origins of our foods anymore. It partly contributes to the wanton wasteful attitude toward the planet and life on the planet.
I hope this answer becomes useful knowledge in all who read it.
file TWH 07222006
2006-07-22 11:18:25 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 9⤊ 13⤋
He is probably making sure that the calf is in good health, alive, and in a proper position for birthing. He is actually sticking his hand into the cow's vagina, and guiding his arm up the birth canal to examine the unborn calf. This can be done to move the calf into position for birth, but also for several diagnositic procedures of the new baby.
2006-07-22 16:48:57 · answer #2 · answered by michelsa0276 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Just like humans. Make sure the calf is not breached.
2006-07-22 16:02:48 · answer #3 · answered by ed 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It isn't the bottom. He is inserting his hand into the womb, where the calf is.
2006-07-22 16:09:35 · answer #4 · answered by Delora Gloria 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Because his arms are not long enough to go via the mouth.
2006-07-22 16:49:27 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
because he hasnt got a arm long enough to feel it down its throat
2006-07-22 16:02:59 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
He doesn`t
2006-07-23 00:22:03 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Because he can.
2006-07-22 16:07:15 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
He is a very sick bastard...
2006-07-22 16:01:49 · answer #9 · answered by sub.lihhjj 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋