Trusting mother cow allows calf with disability to be given a sponge bath

JuJube is a wonderful little calf with some troubles. He was born with weakness in his legs that made it nearly impossible for him to get up and walk. He was otherwise healthy and the mother had lots of milk for him. She tried to position herself so that he could nurse, but it wasn't going to work unless he could get to his feet. She nudged him and licked him, bellowing encouragement. JuJube tried to stand, but he just wasn't able.Show more

Farmer Dave saw that neither of them was ready to give up and he decided that he would not give up either. He bottle fed JuJube and helped him stand long enough to nurse. Bernise did her part and seemed to understand that the farmer was helping them. As this continued, she became less protective and she allowed Dave to do his work to make life easier for both of them.

A veterinarian was called and they believed that the problem was a selenium deficiency, known as "white muscle disease". They gave JuJube vitamin and selenium supplements by injection. They also wondered if it was a joint problem that made walking painful. They began a series of antibiotics and anti-inflammatories.

The farmer and an assistant took turns helping JuJube to his feet several times each day. Bernise eagerly stood in position to let him nurse and JuJube gained strength each day. But a calf who lies down is difficult to clean and Bernise could not keep her baby clean enough. The farm hand gave JuJube daily sponge baths in order to help him stay healthy. Surprisingly, Bernise had enough trust to allow this unusual task to be done. Normally, a mother cow will not let humans handle newborns, but Bernise has been well treated on this wonderful farm and she has come to trust those who care for her.

As time went on, JuJube began gettung up on his own and he began following Bernise around the pasture. It looks like JuJube will be okay, thanks to a trusting mother and a farmer who cared enough to never give up.