How to Show Calves

Many young people involved in 4-H raise and show calves as one of their projects throughout the year. Designed for those in the 7-to-12-year-old age group, calf showing is a short project that starts in May and culminates in local, county and state fair appearances in the fall.

Instructions

    • 1

      Pet the calf and place a harness on it. After it gets used to the harness, use it to lead the calf as it follows the bottle. This will train your calf to lead.

    • 2

      Fulfill all of the entry requirements for your county or state fair. For instance, some fairs require that you obtain a health certificate for your calf from your veterinarian. Also, each fair will have entry documents that need to be filled out and sent in before the due date.

    • 3

      Take all of the equipment you will need at the show. Take food and water along with pans and buckets to serve it in. Take halters and leads for the calf, as well as combs, brushes, soap and towels needed for grooming. Take a rake for cleaning out the stall and bring bedding material if it will not be provided at the fair.

    • 4

      Wash the calf and let it dry thoroughly. Comb the calf's hair and wipe its nose, ears and hooves to make sure they are completely clean.

    • 5

      Answer the judge's questions pertaining to raising and caring for your calf with respectful, honest, and straightforward answers.

    • 6

      Clean up your stall before you leave the show.