Science fiction writer Robert Heinlein once commented, “Specialization is for insects.” When it comes to cattle, though, humans have tended to develop specialized cattle: beef or dairy. At one time, however, the distinctions were much less rigid. Multipurpose Work Animals In earlier times, the milk cow might...
When families set out to build a farm or homestead, the decision to add a dairy animal is often included in the process as a way to provide a source of fresh milk and cheese for the household. While some of these families may opt...
Another facet of a carefully selected, properly trained working cow is her ability to use her natural traits and instincts to assist the farmer with mowing, clearing brush and pruning unwanted vegetation. Given the opportunity, a cow will naturally spend a significant portion of her day...
If you have ever looked closely at a stable piece of nature — a place where the land is untended — but the plants and animals thrive — and seen the balance that sustains all that grows there, then you know of the deeper connection that...
Farming is not always represented fairly in today's media. Accusations are made that farm animals are bad for the environment, and guilty of everything from destroying vegetation and compacting soil to expelling atmosphere damaging gases from either end. When animals like cattle are kept in overcrowded...
If you have a small farm or homestead with livestock, you probably already understand the value of the animals who share it with you. Many of these are probably working animals who contribute their labor for the good of the farm, such as herding dogs...