During an early morning in late October, 2016 a baby was born. She was a very small Aubrac calf. Three weeks premature. Most Aubrac calves weigh between 80 to 95 pounds, yet she was around 35 pounds at birth.
I was in love with her immediately. I made a promise that I would do everything possible to help her survive and thrive in a loving environment. I called her Tiny Tinker. As I write this, I am getting teary-eyed just recalling my history with this precious little baby.
She was under constant observation for the first few weeks. If you didn’t know, a calf’s lungs are one of the last things developed in their mother’s womb. With her questionable immune system and potentially underdeveloped lungs, pneumonia was a potential risk.
In addition to her health, we had feeding problems. Because of her small size, we decided that bottle feeding her organic whole milk would be best. Tiny Tinker didn’t understand how to suckle and she couldn’t stand up to drink. Feeding time consisted of my partner (Tim) holding her over his lap while I gently guided the bottle’s nipple into her mouth. In the beginning we struggled and I was disappointed in myself that she was having a hard time feeding. Fortunately, in a few days she learned how to suckle without our support.
We have barns and animals but hesitated to introduce this small baby to others. Her potential to catch germs were very high. Our heated garage was converted into a barn. After cleansing, disinfecting and adding a calf hutch with fresh straw, our garage turned into a perfect home. I found it comforting that Tiny Tinker would only be a few footsteps away from me.
I work from home and was able to be with her often. My love for Tiny Tinker grew stronger each day. In my heart, I believe she bonded with me.
In a week we had her standing outside. Tim or I would carry her to our front yard and guide her as she took wobbly baby steps. Many times, after a few minutes of exercise, she would tire and then lie down. During this time I started to photograph her journey. You can find many photos and videos on our Facebook page dedicated to her and other animals on our farm.
We knew early on that something was not right about her front leg. We believed her limp would improve in a short time. We found out that this was not the case. After x-rays and doctor visits, we were informed that she has a cyst located right at the growth plates in her knee joint. This is a condition that cannot be corrected and she’ll require special care for life. She will never be able to graze freely with the rest of the cows nor have her own babies. In late Spring, when the grass is green, we’ll provide her with dedicated grazing grounds. Her special field will be free from holes or dips that might cause her to stumble and fall. With some extra attention and care, she can live the full life that she deserves.
Five months have passed since her birth. With the constant human interaction and attention she receives, our little Tiny Tinker has grown into a very sweet and beautiful youth. Please visit her Facebook page (Tiny Tinker Farm Friends) for photos and videos of her and her barnyard friends.
I love this little girl and I’m excited about our future journey together as she continues to grow. She has changed my life in a very positive way. In return, I’ll give her the love and attention she needs. Tiny Tinker – I love you and thank you for making me a more patient and compassionate person.