82 DAIRY FARMING 



61. Marking Calves. In raising pure-bred cattle it is 

 important that some system of marking be adopted which 

 will make it possible to identify the individuals. This is 

 more important with dairy cattle than with . beef breeds, 

 since the calves are taken away from the mothers soon after 

 birth. A number of systems of markings are in use. One 

 plan is to insert tags in the ears. There are many forms of 

 these. They are numbered, and if desired the name of the 

 owner is included. The general objection to this system is 

 the possibility that the tags may be torn out. Another plan 

 is to place a numbered brass tag on a strap about the neck. 

 This is removed when the animal is larger and well known 

 to the owner. 



The tattoo system is also used with success. This con- 

 sists in printing letters or numbers in the skin of the ear with 

 India ink. The instruments are so made that a combina- 

 tion of letters or figures may be used. These tattoo marks 

 when properly applied are permanent and do not disfigure 

 the animal. They cannot be seen at a distance, but make 

 it possible to positively identify the animal. This system is 

 the most satisfactory with breeds having light- colored skin. 



The system followed by the writer is to place a strap bear- 

 ing a number on a brass tag around the neck of the calf before 

 it is taken from its mother. This strap is left on until the 

 animal is nearly mature. The tattoo mark is then put on 

 the ear. 



The color markings of Holsteins, as shown on the diagram 

 of the application for registry or on the pedigree, enable one 

 to identify these animals. But ear tags or other marking 

 systems are also desirable when large numbers are kept. 



62. Shelter. The housing of the dairy cow naturally 

 depends upon climatic conditions. She should not be ex- 



