How to Clean Calves Legs

If you have a calf that injures its leg, the wound must be kept clean in order for it to heal properly. The calf is not likely to stand still for the procedure. You will not only have clean the leg, you need to restrain the calf at the same time --- avoiding kicking feet while controlling a large, flailing body.

Things You'll Need

  • Helper(s)
  • Soft rope
  • Warm, soapy water
  • Soft cloths
  • Straw
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Instructions

    • 1

      Restrain the calf so that neither you nor the calf can be injured. The easiest way to handle a single calf is to have an assistant help you catch the calf and lay it on its side, then use your body weight, and that of your assistant, to hold the calf on the ground. Lay the calf so the leg to be cleaned is on top if the outside needs cleaning; and on the bottom if the inside of the leg needs cleaning.

    • 2

      Tie the calf's legs so that it can't kick you, or have a third person hold the legs so that you can attend to the leg to be cleaned. Even a young calf can deliver a painful kick, so be sure it is secured before proceeding.

    • 3

      Wash the leg with warm, soapy water using a soft cloth. You may need to let it soak a bit, then rub it vigorously to remove any dried-on dirt or manure. Use care around any injured areas, so as not to further hurt or distress the animal.

    • 4

      Dry the leg gently with a clean cloth. If any medication or bandaging is to be applied, this is the time to do so.

    • 5

      Release the calf into a clean, dry area. Place straw for bedding if necessary, to give the calf a place to lie down out of any mud.