I’m always surprised at the people who think cows are stupid (or pigs, or sheep, or chickens, or horses, or heck any animal).

They really aren’t.  They have their pecking order—there is always a ‘Boss’ cow in every herd.  This is the cow that makes up the rules, decides if they are going to walk this way or that, won’t let some other cows get to head up to be ‘too bossy’.  You know the one; we all work with someone just like that (or wants to be.)

And there is always ….a babysitter.  The babysitter isn’t ALWAYS the same cow, they seem to take turns.  Some are really good babysitters….never get all stressed out if the calves jump and play, moo gently to them to stay close by, and in general treat all the calves just wonderfully.

Of course there are those who are NOT very good babysitters…they hang by the ‘kids’ for a short time, then gradually graze off, munching along and not keeping a very good eye on the kids.  I’ve seen the Boss cow come over and head butt a couple of these ‘not very interested’ babysitters until they go back to the calves.

This babysitter is a good one.  She is watching the dogs, not sure if one of them is going to rush the calves.  If they do she will run head-long into them trying to scare them off (works every time for Boomer—he must have been a city/town dog in his former life–he has a V.E.R.Y. healthy FEAR of Momma cows after his FIRST big rush at him.)

—Fuzzy must have been a cow dog when we got him.  He is NOT afraid, has complete command of the situation, and never wanders into an area he shouldn’t be.

If the danger gets too close the babysitter will kick and try to stomp to death whatever the danger is.  Sometimes other (protective cows will come help) and they will also stomp and kick the danger to death –or until it runs off. 

—and just like people there are those cows who stay away from all activity that looks like work.—

So like I say….cows are not dumb.  Just people.

Linda