when to wean calves for fall sales

[kndcattle]

We have two calves that will be in a consignment sale in late september.  The picture and video day for the sale is the first week of sept.  Our calves were born in late february.  Up till now we usually leave them on cow for a while.  but what is a good time to wean them off to get them looking good for picture day.  The calves are not out of great milking recips just regular clubby momma's.  and we know how great they milk lol. They have been on creep feed and eat it well so that is a plus. Does it hurt them in the long run to be weaned soon.  Also what is everyone's method to getting them looking good for fall sales. 

 

[ejoe326]

Ours are day weaned now and have been for just over a week.  I know a few other guys have had theirs in and day weaned quite a bit longer.  We started out dragging halters, feeding in the bunk 2ce a day and now are rinsed 2ce a day, tied under fans, and eating out of pans to better adjust for each calf.

Some guys routinely wean at 3 months without problems.  I think there could be quite a few earlier than usual weaned calves this year due to prices.

Good luck with your sale. 

 

[shortyjock89]

We usually wean around 4-5 months, with the better calves being closer to 4. Our Februaries are probably our best group this year, so we weaned them about a month ago and should be ready for our Sept 23 sale no problem. We usually day wean for a week or so, and then fence line wean them. The cows scream but it's great for the calves.