This is what a breach calf looks like inside the cow

These are the “dew claws” on a cows feet - they are on the front and back feet

In a “normal presentation” these claws will be facing towards the ground when the front feet come out - therefore they have to be front feet

In a “breach” This is what you will see if legs are out - notice how the hocks of the calf are facing to the sky? That means they are back feet and this is a breach

These “breach” cows will need assistance so will need to be put into head crush. You will most likely need help to get the cow into the head crush - if you are not comfortable in calving a breach cow you should also tell someone that is so they can help.

Once cow in in the crush then you need to internally inspect the calf to confirm it is a breach - you will need to find the tail of a calf and make sure it is straight so that it doesn’t damage the cow and calf when it comes out.

Attach chains or rope the the back legs

Hook up the Calving Jack to the ropes or chains

You will need to work calmly and quickly - once you start pulling the calf the umbilical of the calf will break and the calf will start trying to breathe - because it’s coming out backwards there will be no air untill the calf is out - key here is to make sure your set up correctly Eg enough length on chains and Jack, and work slow and smoothly

Once calved get the calf with her mother. Give the cow 5ml Oxytocin. Give any calcium of magnesium treatment as you think nessasary