When a rancher sees a calf
It is that time of year again,
to see sprawled out in the pastures,
this years’ crop of calves,
the pride, joy, and cash source of ranchers
Sure those little creatures may be cute,
but their birth has much more meaning
It’s the product of a lot of hard work,
started long before last year’s weaning.
See that rancher had to choose a bull,
one that would complement his cows.
Then the bull had to be tested for disease
before his entry was allowed.
Then the cows were hauled up country,
to have the nourishment to support their young,
but before they were loaded in the trucks,
vaccinations and parasite control had to be done.
The cows and that year’s calves come home in the fall.
The calves must be weaned and cows checked for pregnancy.
If the ranch is in the DSA, the vet must bleed every one.
With hopes and prayers the blood comes out clean, ranchers wait anxiously.
All of this work before the first calf even hits the ground,
and calving season has just begun.
Ranchers face many a long day and sleepless night
Before this job is done.
So when a rancher see’s a calf,
what he sees is hope, hope for good cattle prices,
summers with rain, healthy kids, and heavy calves.
And that what the future holds is worth his sacrifices