I've been working hard to prepare three of my cattle to compete at the Sandwich Fair. During training, Owen, a Scottish Highland steer, ran away seven times when I asked him to turn right.
I took Owen to the fair, but because he didn't have a partner, he couldn't compete. They did let him practice the course, which called for very few "gees" (right turns) and a whole lot of "haws" (left turns). That suited Owen. He didn't even think about running away.
With 4-H teamster Rose DeFreitas at his side, Owen was downright obedient, and I was proud of them both.
I entered Sam and Bingo, my Black Angus–Normande cross steers, in the official log scoot class. I
n this class, teams of steers drag a loaded sled through an obstacle course. Sam and Bingo did everything I asked.
The trouble was, I hadn't asked often enough at home.
Click for More about the Now of the Cow
Carole Soule is co-owner of Miles Smith Farm in Loudon, N.H. where Saturday, Oct 17 you are invited to the Cow Crew Experience from 1 to 3 pm where you can meet our friendly bovines.
Sign up for free local newsletters and alerts for the
Concord Patch
Patch.com is the nationwide leader in hyperlocal news.
Visit Patch.com to find your town today.