South Bruce 4-H Dairy Club holds fifth meeting at Walkerton-Hanover Vet Clinic

The South Bruce 4-H Dairy Club gathered for an educational and interactive session, July 24, at the Walkerton-Hanover Veterinary Clinic.

This fifth meeting of the year, provided club members with a unique opportunity to delve into the intricate world of bovine anatomy, focusing on the cow's digestive system.

The session was led by Dr. Clayton Stinson, a respected veterinarian with extensive experience in dairy cattle care.

He began by explaining the complex digestive system of cows, which is crucial for converting feed into the nutrients necessary for their health and milk production. He highlighted the role of the rumen, reticulum, omasum, and abomasum—the four stomach compartments unique to ruminants.

Following the informative lecture, club members had the rare chance to engage in a hands-on activity that captivated their curiosity. Under Stinson’s supervision, they participated in a dissection of a cow stomach. This practical exercise allowed them to closely examine the different compartments of the stomach and understand how each plays a role in the digestive process.

“The dissection was an eye-opener for many of our members,” said press reporter June Ibbotson. “Seeing the organs up close and understanding their functions in real-time, was an amazing experience. It’s one thing to read about these processes, but another, entirely, to witness them first-hand.”

This activity also included a discussion on common digestive issues in dairy cattle, their impact on animal health, and the importance of proper nutrition and veterinary care. The club members asked insightful questions and demonstrated their growing knowledge of dairy farming practices.

The members finished up the meeting with some hands-on practice of knot-tying, an important skill to use at home and away at cattle competitions!

For more information about the South Bruce 4-H Dairy Club and its upcoming events, visit the Facebook page at South Bruce 4-H Dairy Club.



The South Bruce 4-H Dairy Club members get some hands-on learning at the Walkerton-Hanover Veterinary Clinic; photos by June Ibbotson