The tools you need to raise and care for beef cattleBeef cattle farming is a business that continues to grow in the United States and around the world, and it will only grow larger as the demand for beef continues to increase. Raising Beef Cattle For Dummies provides you with an introduction to all aspects of raising beef cattle. Packed with expert tips from experienced farmers, it gives any level of cattle-raiser the tools needed to increase the quantity and quality of your farm's output and maintain a healthy herd.Raising Beef Cattle For Dummies is the go-to resource for aspiring cattle farmers. With important information on health, handling, and breeding, and detailed coverage of equipment and supplies, it is teeming with useful information that anyone interested in raising cattle should have.* Advice on which beef cattle breeds to rear* The prevention and treatment of common diseases* Caring for pregnant heifers and calving procedures* Dietary specifications dependent on breed* Guidance on humane management* Creating an open and safe pasture habitatIf you're an aspiring cattle farmer looking to begin raising cattle or an established raiser interested in expanding your herd, Raising Beef Cattle For Dummies has you covered.

Introduction 1Part I: Getting to Know Beef Cattle 7Chapter 1: The Rewards and Responsibilities of Raising Beef Cattle 9Chapter 2: Bovine Basics: Understanding Cattle Terminology and Anatomy 23Chapter 3: From Angus to Zebu: Looking at Beef Cattle Breeds and Traits 35Part II: Preparing to Bring Home the Beef 53Chapter 4: Home on the Range: Preparing Your Facilities 55Chapter 5: Chow Time: Planning Your Feeding Program 79Chapter 6: Exploring Pasture, Manure, and Water Management 107Chapter 7: Choosing and Buying Cattle 127Part III: Cattle Handling, Health, and Breeding 145Chapter 8: Understanding and Properly Handling Cattle 147Chapter 9: Keeping Your Cattle Healthy 165Chapter 10: Addressing Common Cattle Ailments 191Chapter 11: Breeding Cows and Caring for Pregnant Females 213Chapter 12: Looking After Calves Young and Old 241Part IV: Realizing Your Cattle Business Potential 261Chapter 13: Turning Your Extra Pastures into a Money-Making Business 263Chapter 14: Showing and Selling Cattle 275Chapter 15: Managing Your Beef Business 293Part V: The Part of Tens 311Chapter 16: Ten Common Mistakes to Avoid When Raising Cattle 313Chapter 17: Ten (or so) Bizarre Bovine Behaviors . . . and What They Mean 321Index 327