We hope you will become familiar with Dexters and cattle in general by reading and learning as much as you can before taking the big step.  There are many resources available on the Internet and at your local library or bookstore.  We highly recommend Getting Started with Beef & Dairy Cattle by Heather Smith Thomas.

Here are some suggestions for starting out on the right hoof with your new Dexter:

• When you first bring your new cow or calf home, we suggest that you keep it in a sturdy small enclosure until it has adjusted to you and its new surroundings, before turning it out into a pasture.  This will also allow you an opportunity to monitor food and water intake, as well as manure output.
• Cattle are herd animals so your calf will appreciate having other cows for company.  This will make them less likely to challenge your fencing to look for companionship.

• A good way to introduce your new calf to other cattle is “through the fence” so they can become familiar with each other before being turned out together.  Once turned out in a pasture with other cattle, it will take a little time for them to establish “pecking order.”
• Make sure the animal has access to clean water at all times, plenty of good grass hay (free choice in winter), and a good quality loose mineral.
• If you are feeding grain to your new Dexter, make any changes gradually to avoid problems. 
• Depending upon your climate, a windbreak or shelter is helpful, especially in cold, wet conditions.
• Even if the animal is halter-broken and trained to lead, you will need to spend time with the calf, allowing it to get used to your voice and touch.  The more time you spend with your Dexter, the more you (and the calf) will enjoy it.  Be patient, calm, and move slowly.
• If your calf or cow has a halter, be sure to check it regularly to be sure it still fits properly and adjust it as needed.
• It is advisable to establish contact with a local veterinarian who is familiar with cattle before you bring your new cow or calf home.  While we vaccinate all of our cattle according to our veterinarian’s recommendations, the animal will need annual boosters; and your veterinarian will be able to advise you on what is recommended for your area.
• If you are just starting out with cattle, you may not have handling facilities (headgate, chute) yet; if you plan to increase your numbers, this type of equipment becomes very important (and your veterinarian will thank you).
• No matter how tame or friendly any animal appears to be, remember not to turn your back on any cow or bull, ever!

Buying a Dexter from Olde Towne Farm:

• A deposit will hold a calf until it is ready to leave our farm.  The deposit is applied to the purchase price of the animal.
• Calves receive all age-appropriate vaccinations and boosters for our area before leaving the farm; the buyer will receive a record of all vaccinations and dewormers given to the animal.
• The buyer is responsible for transportation; if the animal is to be shipped out of Virginia, Olde Towne Farm will obtain a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection for the carrier.
• Olde Towne Farm tests all bull and heifer calves for Chondrodysplasia and the new owner will receive a copy of test results.
• Olde Towne Farm pays for ADCA registration and transfer of animals to their new owner.