My Calf's Mysterious Illness

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[@ccam504]

to all those people questioning you about taking care of the animals ...Just because farms have animals doesn't mean a farmer is not attached to their animals... Morgan you are a very caring person for your animals.

[@paulatatar3288]

I love how u care and if u can invest in his health why not ❤❤❤

[@dj_cat_mama]

Your farm isn’t just a business. It’s a family of animals. You are lucky to be able to do this. Thanks for showing this.

[@oldflorida2003]

This is life

[@patriciaposthumus6684]

I'm praying that Baby Elliot is going to get better. I'm also glad that you have been able to find a new vet that takes care of large farm animals. I hope that on your next update that we have some good news about the baby. All of us who follow you are standing with you in spirit. We are all hoping for the best for Baby Elliot.

[@heatherklick3667]

Didn’t get his milk from Mom. That is a big problem. So sorry.😢😢😢😢

[@colemine7008]

If Elliot pulls through he will be your favorite most friendly cow ever. Fingers crossed. I think your wife will have a magic hand with him. He responded so well to her care.

[@annam1349]

agreed!!! Allison just brings in the big guns and has magical powers

[@_AriseChicken]

Magic is real omg

[@Greezy42]

I suspect an exception may have to be made to the dead rock star name rule. Elliot should ge granted immediate Animal Ambassadorial status and receive "diplomatic immunity."

[@GirLee316]

​@@annam1349 Agreed! Allison is 100% a healer. Not only to her human patients but to any other creatures in need! Magic Allison!!

[@zephyrwlf]

If Elliot pulls through, he's still going to be butchered. Please remember that and try not to get too attached. ;;

[@samanthathomas4327]

That short “he’s dying, I’m pretty sure he’s dying” broke my heart. You are such a kind soul Morgan. So loving. So gentle. I’m early in the video but I have high hopes…

[@IbelongtoJesus.]

😥

[@Cassiopea525]

The thing about saving this calf even if it’s a steer is that the value of the calf isn’t important in the equation. This is your first major complication in raising calfs and the experience for you is invaluable. It could be argued that your first sick calf experience being a steer is better than a female because whether Elliot makes it or not, you will be far more prepared next time things go wrong. So I would argue the monetary investment isn’t in the calf itself but in your continuing education as a farmer.

[@Buckets7513]

Well said.

[@spookylilqueer]

absolutely, invaluable learning experience, if nothing else :( and if it is an issue with colostrum as commenters have suggested, now there is a chance to cover an extra base next time which morgan would not have without posting. the fact that there is not even a suggestion that this effort was to save next years dinner...it was to save a little life if possible.

[@scooterpush]

Absolutely.

[@JingleBellsBarky]

This is so true. When I took my guinea pig to the vet even 20 years ago it cost me $100 but I was breeding them and I considered it my education to learn how to prevent losses of future piggies. That vet taught me that guinea pigs (and other small creatures) often die of starvation or dehydration rather than the virus or injury itself. So I had the courage to force feed and fluids many times and not give up on my animals. I saved many from that one vet visit and what I learned. I pay my vets for their schooling and experience and it’s worth it.

[@kimsteen8185]

Very good point, I didn't thinknabout that.

[@scooterpush]

Being able to document what goes on in your farm is your primary objective, and the fact you share it with us is secondary. People need to get over themselves. Your documentation helped the vet tremendously.

[@ashmusing6118]

Exactly this. I recently went through an illness with my old dog (he passed away, unfortunately - canine anemia is a BITCH.) and if I'd had the presence of mind/ability to film his behaviour, it would have helped explain things at the various vets. I've had the thought of investing in one of those camera headmounts for the future, be easier than my phone.

[@scooterpush]

@ashmusing6118 yes, even a go pro mounted on a hat and kept charged, you'll be ready for any emergency.

[@gyrene94]

Have had calves do this if they didn't get colostrum. We keep it on hand now when calving. You can give it regardless if nursing as a fail safe within first 24 hrs.

[@sharonknorr1106]

Wondering if they checked the antibody levels? The one thing with animals born when nobody is around is that you don't really know if they got a good dose of colostrum in the first hour or two. It's not like with humans where babies also get antibodies through the placenta as well as colostrum and then mature milk.

[@marleneclough3173]

Yes I also follow Tom Pembrrton farm life dairy farm he always gives the calves colostrum even though they are with their Mom's for the first few days

[@eacole72]

@@marleneclough3173 Sandi Brock does the same thing with her lambs.

[@lyndakrusky7141]

Morgan, did he get enough corostrum

[@curiousfirely]

Genuine question: would giving Elliott colostrum at this point be helpful in building immunity, or has the opportunity passed?

[@JingleBellsBarky]

My son lost their last baby Highland. They did not know what took him either. His name was Bruce. All the kids cried. They tried everything to save him, brought him in the house, bottle fed him. The kids slept with him to keep him company. It was very sad day on our little farm. I hope Elliot pulls through.

[@gailjordan9250]

😢

[@T_P_W_ThachoZenjuan]

But did they take it to a vet?

[@NiaJustNia]

If they breed the same cow next year, get a colostrum tester. She might not be producing the immunity the baby needs in the initial colostrum feed, and it's something you need to know. On her next calf if she is bred again, give it powdered colostrum just in case to maximise that immune system's kickstart. Check the cow is up to date on her vaccines too as she might be missing antibodies the calf needs. Like there could be something in the soil that's weak enough to not bother an adult cow, but can decimate a newborn's immune system. It might've been a silly calf and just not had a good latch on that colostrum feed and just not got enough initially despite the cow producing fine. So steps for next year: -Give powdered colostrum substitute the same day any calf is born (the kids will enjoy getting to feed them too!), which will also give you a chance to check their latch. -Screen the cow's colostrum to check it's quality -Before breeding, check the cow's vaccine status -Check your winter feed's nutritional values, especially if you buy in and don't know the soil quality of the producers. If a key nutrient or vitamin is missing, the cow can't pass it on to the calf. Low selenium/vitamin E and magnesium are the most common. It'll make the kids feel better too to know there's things you can do to reduce the risks next time. The risks are never 0, but it can help that feeling of helplessness to know you've done everything

[@b_uppy]

Similar with one of ours. Necropsy revealed it had a twisted bowel.

[@petthequeenofmaddness8592]

@@T_P_W_ThachoZenjuan vets aren't open 24/7 they don't all work with the same animals and people can't go into debt over a dead animal if you take your pet to the vet and they die you still have to pay them heck you have to pay them for stuff that might go wrong and if they don't need the "emergency" that you paid for just incase they still keep the money, they did what they reasonably could with what they had on hand

[@IzzyReis]

the sound of your breathing carrying the sick calf, I can feel your pain and concern. How can there be people who still say that you don't care about your animals is crazy in my opinion.

[@jenat82]

I mean, the calf probably weighs 75 pounds. You might sound a little strained.

[@katieandkevinsears7724]

The hardest thing with livestock is finding them fading away. I'm glad you were able to get Elliot the help he needed to give him a fighting chance.

[@RJ-go3sn]

So sad watching Anne call out for (presumably) baby Elliot. I'm so sorry this is happening. It's breaking my heart for you. I admire you for your respect of your animals, and the decisions you are forced to make. Seeing Allison work her loving kindness too was hopeful! May luck be yours.

[@katieandkevinsears7724]

That was definitely mama calling for her baby. Our Dexter cow does that every time we separate her from her calves for any length of time.

[@Morna777]

I hope having him back makes her feel better even if she can't nurse him.

[@BroqueCowgirlHomestead]

My first thought when I seen him on his knees was joint ill. It's an infection that enters through the umbilical cord when they are born and it's still wet. Dipping navals with iodine immediately after birth helps immensely in preventing that happening. PenG is usually used to treat it. Could also be a selenium/vitamin E thing too, if deficient, the babies just don't thrive. But there are supplements for that. BOSE is one that is readily available, and easy to give orally. When bottle feeding a calf, it's much easier if you straddle it, and kinda cover their eyes with your shirt or jacket. (simulates nursing mom) Hope he continues to improve.

[@ellamoon555]

That’s exactly what I was thinking!

[@DanishButterCookie]

Could be, especially a risk if he didnt get enough colostrum. Joint ill usually presents through partial or full paralysis of the legs, swollen limbs, fatigue. However, hunger is usually not affected.

[@BootScootinBoo]

Navel ill, and issues with his having been banded. He didn’t share whether or not he gave the appropriate vaccine for tetanus etc

[@viviennegasson4961]

I love the tip about covering the calves eyes. So simple yet I can understand how that would work

[@bspevans7940]

I was thinking the selenium deficiency, too. We have used BoSe before and it can sure help. Or sometimes vitamin B complex.

[@NiaJustNia]

This looks like he might've missed his first colostrum, so his immune system is weak. Always keep some colostrum on hand and offer a bottle any time you have a calf born, just to make sure you know for a fact they've had some colostrum.

[@malcolmpayne9517]

I was thinking the exact thing!!!! I have goats and cattle on my farm. I keep colostrum on hand when my goats are kidding out, and when my cows are calving. He really acts like a calf that has missed that very first important milk that's loaded with colostrum to boost that immune system. It's packed with all kinds of vitamins and minerals. They should give him some colostrum with that IV drip and antibiotics. I've seen colostrum perk a calf 🐄 or kid goat 🐐 in under 24 hours!!!! I own 287 acres down here in South Alabama, and I'm around goats, horses, cows, chickens, ducks, guineas, and quail everyday!!!!!

[@ibrahimsebaa3430]

whar does colustrom do does it boos immunity?

[@Winterascent]

@@ibrahimsebaa3430 I believe it has antibodies in it to help pass immune protection to the baby after delivery.

[@malcolmpayne9517]

@@ibrahimsebaa3430 Yes, it boosts the immune system. It's packed with vitamins and minerals too. I raise goats, horses, cows, chickens, ducks, and quail.

[@jessicamcwilliams3346]

It is the first milk that mammals have, humans included, it has vital immunities from the mother to prevent illness until it can be vaccinated. It really helps the animal get started off on the right foot.

[@cartwheelsinthezendo]

The magic that is Allison. She is so compassionate with her encouraging words and her caregiving. I hope little Elliott recovers well. You are not only a very talented storyteller but also a very heart centered farmer. Please know your followers care about you, your farm, and your animals. ❤

[@bluerendar2194]

Recording can definitely help you keep calm and take off the edge on the panic and overthinking! People need to know everyone deals with stress differently and not judge what works best for others.

[@Nitram4392]

Makes sense to me. It gives you something to do and "talking" to someone often helps with stress (at least for me).

[@phantagirlable]

I thought so too. He's expressing his feeling about things right away. Seem very healthy to me.

[@kabodick]

I’m guessing Morgan is an extrovert and they often process things by talking out loud about it.

[@californiadreaming567]

I’m grateful that you show us it all instead of pretending everything is great. I recently had a 9 month old kitten die and the emergency vets weren’t quite sure what was wrong. It helps all of us. It’s hard having animals become sick and possibly die quickly. Hopefully your other calf’s don’t get it

[@melonlord5476]

Watching Annie check all the calves and calling for him is so depressing :

[@ruvy91]

Allison has the magic touch. It's good you're showing everyone the good, bad, and the sad of being a farmer. The bright side if Elliot Smith pulls through and is a bottle baby, he'll probably be the most docile steer you have.

[@judykinsman3258]

My heart is breaking for you Morgan.

[@annmcspadden8566]

Did the vet check for BIRD FLU, H1N5, that's also been found in cattle. Perhaps his mom needs to be checked, too. I sure hope this little cutie we all love ❤️ makes it.

[@pshuang415]

For better searchability, the strain is H5N1 (reversed numbers). I don't expect that a vet would normally keep (refrigerate/freeze) samples from animals they treat, but it might be worth checking with the vet if they have any samples that they might want to either preserve or actively test.

[@RiverCrystal]

I was gonna say this too. The cases of bird flu on cattle farms is severely undercounted right now because a lot of farms are refusing to even test; they're afraid it could hurt their business.

[@bkm2797]

So sorry Elliot isn't well, and the vet is still lost as to what is going on. Morgan, have you called the very kind and helpful owners of the farm where Macho was born? Thinking since they've probably seen just about everything, they might be able to help or suggest what might be going on. Wish Dr. Pol wasn't so far away, he'd probably know what it is. Anyway, will be sending Elliot some healing prayers and I really hope he recovers. Take care Morgan, keep us in the loop.🐂❤️🙏🏻👍

[@joconnor3567]

Dr Pol would treat with Selinium.

[@rachelmcclure7516]

Hey, I'm a veterinary student and we recently had a lecture saying that calf milk replacement is an okay solution, but I recommend using whole milk from the store over the replacement. The replacement can cause many digestive issues and often results in constipation or diarrhea!

[@theconsciouscorgi2103]

This video proves just how remarkable of a story teller and video producer you are. I’m sitting here watching this wiping a tear from my eye over a little calf that I’m praying pulls through knowing full well his eventual fate. No matter the end, nobody wants the story of little calf’s life to be cut short, especially a fluffy little Goldshaw calf.

[@brittany710_]

not what I expected to open my phone to. Wishing you and all your animals the best Morgan.

[@John-dm2ik]

Morgan - you've done all the right things in this situation with the calf.

[@jillbaldwin3005]

My dad was a large animal farm vet, spending his life on the road in his decked out med van. He specialized in race horses, but cattle were the bread and butter. You are at quite a disadvantage not having an old fashioned farm vet in your area.

[@kristineteall368]

Absolutely! Even if he can zoom or FaceTime a vet since one isn’t available locally, they would be a wealth of knowledge for him and worth every penny of the investment!

[@rummagehill]

Poor baby ❤we send love 😘 to Elliott

[@ritamulloy3522]

That receptionist was fibbing

[@WickedAwesomeGardening]

Aw, watching Allison with him was heart warming. He really seems to like her. I hope little guy pulls through!

[@Winterascent]

Failure to thrive is one of those things. Hopefully he survives and grows strong.

[@marypritchett115]

True words. Survival of the fittest.

[@calcareadk]

I think your vets are wrong. I am a vet myself. After bringing him back, isolating him would be the choice, just to get some peace and quiet around him. But no reason not to include momma cow, if that works out it would be the best. Whatever the problem is, she cannot affect it more - in a negative way, only in a positive way.

[@donnakearse2503]

Don’t worry about the crappy people. I’m a nurse and love to see your activities. Thank you for sharing with us. We love your animals too. Hang in there Morgan. Hope baby recovers quickly.

[@soilsenasuil]

Agree with person who mentioned colostrum… also consider putting inside with a heat lamp…

[@gracedawn]

Soooo hard to wait for an update!!!!! Best wishes for Elliot!!!

[@ameliarader5625]

Hoping beyond hope that he pulls through

[@SGLV1]

Everyone is pulling for Elliot! ❤🙏

[@nicolemajor7048]

And now can't wait to find out after 2days what happen is he better

[@jay-meabraham2001]

As a farmer, when an illness that you are unfamiliar with happens the best thing to do is to see a vetranarian. I had a goat kid who was one of 3, he couldn't walk his back legs were weak. The mom rejected him. We took him to the vet and found out he was deficient in selenium. This allowed us to know that our minerals were not enough, we then injected the rest of the goats with a vitamin shot. We didn't have anymore kids unable to walk. Wouldn't have known what the problem was and would have continued to have weak kids.

[@BooneeXCdad]

Love Allison's compassion. Praying for Elliot.

[@marytapioca]

Same!🙏✝

[@PrettyKitty_210]

Allison is a nurse practitioner.🥰❤️

[@jeanbrown4288]

How sweet to get to see Allison bond with an calf!! Now she can say she had a cow! Lol. Bottle feeding is tough but once they get going and he feels better he will literally chase her down when he sees her coming with that bottle !! Stay strong!! And I don't know if I would let any of cats either to close to Elliot just yet. This is such a touch and go thing! Lots of luck to you and Allison!!

[@katiehettinger7857]

Morgan, That shot of him trying to stand in the beging looked like Sandi Brock"s lambs with joint ill. Which occurs when they are infected through the umbilical cord. She dips each lamb's cord close to birth in iodine. The antibiotics are the treatment she uses if the time between birth and treatment is too great. You might want to consider not caring in the yard covered in winter muck which harbors. pathogens.

[@tonylopez4568]

I agree with the viral etiology as the Dx. And I do agree that most farmers that make their livelihood from farming only would not have spent that much money on him, but your business is different and that's OK.

[@Nirrrina]

Being a KZbinr does allow him more avenues to help his animals & that's a wonderful thing.

[@jeanbrown4288]

Morgan wish I had direct number to ya ! But growing up on and off a farm in Western KS we see allot of things happen to calves cows etc sometimes the obvious is passed over but anything mom eats or drinks is like a human genetics so to say. One year it came down to something in the water trough and I think they just bought new ones if you can't scrub them we've done that too! Check your hay too he's deff a fighter. You are used to such a high survival rate. A sickly animal is shocker!! I would have left him at vet too! You do what you gotta and watch your other babies!! Sometimes it's literally in the water!! Good luck!!

[@lindachickey5856]

Maybe if you send him an email he will get your information for help. I hope he reads all the comments. There are a lot of people that have helpful hints for him. Also in email, put subject in all caps. Just an idea.

[@Max-Turbator]

fighting a virus take alot of energy , hes gonna make it but its gonna take a few days to build him up back, great work.

[@sowandtare]

I'm glad there is a vet available to help, I know that was a concern earlier. I hope Elliot pulls through and the rest of the herd continues to be ok. Hang in there!

[@laurennegonzalez985]

My husband say… septic choc! Baby calf need a more clean , ombilic cord clean as fast as possible after birth! Before they lay down in a pasture , mud place fill with bacteria ! Hope your baby calf will recovery! ❤️‍🩹 hope all will be well 😢we love your videos and your farm life! ❤

[@carlycharlesworth1497]

The poor love, I found myself tearing up watching him suffer. His momma calling him broke my heart. I am praying for him, bless his little heart. I know he's a steer, but at least if he lives for a year or so, he will have had some lifespan, as things stand now, he hasn't even had a month of life to enjoy. God give Little Elliott the strength to recover. Thank you for doing so much for him Morgan and Alison. You're both the best kind of farmers.

[@Scandic45]

Talking to yourself out loud helps in a stressful situation when you got a camera to explain to yourself and make you comfterable with it as well. Th camera is a crutch to not feel to awkward with it.

[@liviamon]

PLEASE! Will you give us updates on this beautiful calf? Wishing he will pull through and be the favourite pet of the farm, he deserves it!

[@EllaBee90]

You also need clean stalls in that barn. It would make it easier to take care of mom and baby when they don't feel ok.

[@rainerainegoaway9426]

Morgan what you are doing for little Elliot is what makes you so special!!! Its why you have so many fans and people like me who love the hell out of ya!! You are just a great human being. I am hoping and praying that lil Elliot pulls through for you. But at least he now has a chance thanks to you! Thank you for being such a good person. You are awesome and i love you!!!

[@cindym7234]

Oh No! Poor Elliot! Yes. You are absolutely doing the right thing by taking care of Elliot and by filming this journey. Elliot deserves the chance to get better and your subscribers are invested in your farm animals. We want to know the ups and downs of the farm. Sending prayers your way for Elliot to make a full recovery and for no other cows to get sick. Love from Texas ❤

[@sleekspeed22]

Stepping out of your 1st person perspective and into the 3rd person help us deal with overwhelming emotions. It's a good skill to have/learn.

[@viviennegasson4961]

Totally agree. By doing this it can take the emotion out of any decision equation and make a decision clearer and easier too

[@nikkireigns]

Go to a farm store and get the red boluses and the yellow tablets (I’m blanking on the names lol). Give him one of each each feeding for 3 days. Calf blanket. Never feed laying down if you can help it. As soon as he’s able, provide sweet feed mixed with Calf Manna. He’ll be behind the other calves now. Also, if he makes it, he’ll be a pet forever now that he’s bottle fed 😅

[@nikkireigns]

Probios probiotics for ruminants and calf stress (red Bolus) and terramycin scours tablets (yellow)

[@VelvetDraginfly]

Also with that Camera, you have a video "Look, here is what I saw, what the calf looked like and when." it's documentation that gives the doctor more info beyond your words which might give them more clues. Also, I'm not a Vet, so my my two cents means very little, but it Looks Neuro. Like he cant quite find his feet.I know his mom is fairly low down the totem pole could he have gotten knocked down/ kicked or just plain jumping around and knocked himself for a loop and hit his head? Because that looks like a concussion to me. That or an inner ear infection, sending his balance to heck.

[@spottedsparrowgardens9999]

Yes. We have ran into that with our family dogs. Telling the vet of suddenly not walking they were like oh ok til they saw video of absolutely not walking and legs givng out and unsteadiness they perked up and were able to see why we were so concerned.

[@DanishButterCookie]

When cattle get sick they kinda just give up and go into paralysis, adults and babies alike. Honestly i think baby just didnt get any colostrum, happens with highlands sometimes as the cows are prone to very swollen udders. If the teats are too swollen and hard, calf cant drink.

[@VelvetDraginfly]

By the way Morgan, You are doing a GOOD JOB. Sometimes we don't win no matter what the choices we make, but we have to remember that they were the best choices we could make with the information we had At The Time, Under The Circumstances.. Going back and second guessing, or letting other people bully us later helps nothing when they were not there having to make those decisions in the moment. You are doing a Good Job, and making Good Choices. You are asking for advice from the experts when you need help! Like the breeders you got your bull from and other Highland experts. And then using that information. (And No people he doesn't need to TELL US every little thing he does so shut it! He's an intelligent adult.)

[@gracedawn]

I know, what is up with all the bullying and judgemental comments. Bunch of hypocrites

[@patricedeavila4771]

I'm so sorry that you're going thru this and kuddos for modeling responsible husbandry. Yes, he's a handful, but you will learn a lot from this experience, and you are not only thinking about dollars, but also the health of the entire heard, and by learning what's going on with him, you will keep ahead of any problems that could affect the herd. Also, the skills you learn ministering to this sickly calf, will only make you a stronger and more knowledgeable rancher to your herd.

[@laurakillah1]

Aww Morgan. Please update us as soon as possible. Get well soon baby. If that was me I would have took mum out the herd and kept them togethe. Had decision to make either way 🥰🤞

[@jenn7047]

Could be helpful, would also help keep him warm?

[@Garlictoastify]

I think it could be related to the banding of the testes. I was immediately worried something like this might happen when I saw that in a previous video. Kastration using that method is forbidden by law here in Sweden because of the risks. Pretty sure banding of the testies is even considered animal abuse here. So any kastration of an animal can only be performed by a veterinarian in Sweden. That way the animal can be properly numbed up and the affected area thoroughly sanitized before the procedure to greatly reduce the risk of complications, such as infections or even worse, sepsis also known as blood poisoning. Granted, the vet that Morgan took the calf to should have checked the entire calf and found that out by now if that was the case. But... Veterinarians are just humans too, he might not have thought to check such a young calfs junk. So it could be worth checking how he looks between his legs in the banded area, just to make sure. Regardless of the cause of his ill health I really hope he gets better, poor little calf...

[@ladyteruki]

Recording will also help you come back to how things happened or what was exactly said if other calves face difficulties later (this year or later), and help you in the long run in recognizing patterns, as well as providing some of the care yourself. A lot of farmers learn to give medication, IV, and more to save on vet costs or simply when there isn't an hour to "waste" in commute while a life is at stake. So I think of filming as a great way to collect and record data too. In the long run, filming will make you a better farmer. Speaking of data, do you have a journal/database of sorts for your cattle's health ? Date of birth, dates of vaccines, complications, that kind of thing ?

[@janetdufresne4448]

The Momma knew that you were going to help him for her. Annabelle is worried and calling her baby. It's so sad. Thank you for helping this baby so fast.

[@ellendavis9940]

I’m proud of you for giving him a chance.

[@IvyWhiskeyDram]

Actually I know a lot of British farmers that care just as much for their meat and dairy calves, and they put the time and effort into saving calves especially when the herd is so small and everyone counts. Maybe you need to revise your set up for next years calving and have some stuff on hand for potential issues.

[@bernadetteb176]

He is a living creature and you have the ability to help him. That is the best we as caretakers can do. Have a wonderful day and what will be will be .

[@nikkimansell2760]

Poor little Elliott 😔. I hope that he turns that corner and is back on top form really soon, bless him. Much love to you all xxx

[@Dovietail]

A farm animal this seriously and mysteriously ill belongs at a university vet school clinic. Growing up in TX, we always took animals this sick to A&M.

[@rachellemazar7374]

How sad, you are taking such good care of Elliot, I hope he pulls through

[@corinnespanelewski4732]

Being you have no clue what it is it better for the rest of the herd with him not there. Might be for the wrong reason for me but makes my heart happy when the animal comes before $$$$. These are than channels I will always stay with.

[@zanetamcgaha6928]

Poor Elliot and Anne of Green Gables. Can you separate the mom in a different paddock so they could be together? ?

[@kiradeki3561]

I think if he did that, he'd be putting Anne at risk of catching whatever Elliot has. Separating him from the herd entirely is best because if he's the only one who's sick, the rest of the herd will be protected from catching it.

[@divinewrath3142]

Awe Morgan I'm so sorry. Poor little Elliot. I hope he pulls through this! Poor lil thing is fighting, hopefully with enough time and care he will bounce back.

[@CelticStar87]

More and more farmers are investing care and money into their calves, even their steers. Especially smaller farms that can afford to do so. Especially if it’s an unknown illness, they have to know if the rest of the herd is at risk. Hopefully he pulls through. Bottle feeding him will make him friendlier with you, but that bond that develops will make things harder down the road - whether that road is short or long.

[@monicareid8858]

Aw, Morgan-I’m so sorry for your struggles here with Elliott. Courage. You got this.

[@spookylilqueer]

Poor thing. Amazing to see you doing everything possible to give him the best chance. Broke my heart at the beginning when you were holding him rushing to the truck, saying that "he's dying" :( its the circle of life I guess, but I am deeply invested in this herd and this small lil farm. Nurse Allison to the rescue! congrats on becoming mama 2 and mama 3 to lil elliot smith, keeping him in my thoughts

[@TomSarelas]

Allison clearly has a special touch. TFS

[@NYShepherdGirl]

He's smart not to stand-up or fight-- conserve energy to heal!!

[@rebeccazimmerman870]

Omg I’m so sorry he sick I’m praying his ok

[@AdmiredDisorder]

I do appreciate that this channel uploads the serious and sad moments as well as the happy and silly ones. Farm life is full of ups and downs and if it were all sunshine and rainbows 100% of the time it would begin to feel artificial and unnerving for me. I hope Elliot pulls through but even if he doesn't, I do feel Morgan and Allison and the vet and their team have done so much to try to do everything they can to keep him stable and fed. The care is definitely there.

[@NYShepherdGirl]

VERY LOW SELENIUM!! TREAT FOR ANYWAY!!! Sheep share-- very low SELENIUM in soils from Main to GREAT LAKES TO MASON- DIXON line between PA/Maryland!! Especially if there has been EXCESSIVE RAINFALL!!!

[@gingerstorm101]

Poor baby Elliot. I watch Sandi Brock and she goes through this with her lambs too. I wish for the best for you all at the farm

[@JudyHart1]

Everyone loves Sandi!

[@wyntrees]

As someone who breeds highlands, I would have done exactly the same thing you did. Did you check for selenium deficiency? He kind of presents that way. Check with Janet is what I would do!

[@bhb12682]

All the best to Elliott and his Moo-Ma. I hope the critics aren't too upset. I see responsible farming as you consider the whole herds health and longevity especially when planning future growth. Knowledge is power, thank you for not shying away from the topic as there are many aspects of farming. Your herds health is a Iong-term commitment - those who have to cull a sick animal may wish they had more resources to address unexpected events like this even the best plans have to be adaptable. If it's a genetic thing you can change some of your breeding plans, if it's a virus you can quarantine and check the other calves, and if nature takes it course you can choose to respect the circle of life. Take care of and enjoy these amazing Moo-Ma's !

[@zainylainy1]

I’m proud of you for being so caring for your animals. Elliot is such a sweet boy! So hoping he makes it.

[@tarrabaron]

I am so sad for this little calf. I am hoping he makes it. He will have a bond with you like no other. He really seemed to take to Allison, maybe she can spend time with him.

[@larkm19]

After watching Dr. Pol a ton (so I'm no expert by any means) my first guess would be a naval infection, it can end up elsewhere in the body and cause all kinds of issues.

[@SandrA-hr5zk]

Allison is so amazing with the animals. It was so sweet to see how he responded to her. I hope she has some time off to give the little guy some TLC.

[@Susan.I]

My prayers are with Elliott and his mom and you and your wife🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@tinasachs8688]

It probably is a good thing that he does have an appetite. Hope the little guy pulls through. Feel better soon, Elliott.

[@philliparmitage7091]

I had a Simmental calf that lived three days then died. Had the calf autopsied. Turned out it had a congenital liver defect. Nothing could have been done to save it.

[@GeoffHou]

I didn't catch well if he was drinking (confirmed milk traces (we had a calf passing because we got fooled) and if he was, he might still be Selenium deficiant. If he didn't drink regularly or the first hours, it will most probably always be weak.

[@GeoffHou]

And as I noticed the mother was licking the mineral block quite heavily, I would advice to check the content of that mineral block and maybe add other supplements accordingly

[@charthenurse]

I really hope your whole family, animals and all do well. Praying for you, and Elliot. I grew up near a dairy farm and cows are such lovely creatures. You did your best and gave Elliot your all, you're such a good person Morgan. My daughter and I nightly watch your videos and it's one of the high lights of my day.

[@Maggie-Gardener-Maker]

I send my most positive thoughts for baby Elliot and for Mom AnnaBelle, I hope she didn't get mastitis from being engorged.

[@Sibertooth1]

Poor Elliot, I hope he recovers. I love how sweet and caring Allison is to him

[@jenniferhinkle1081]

Making these videos seems like a coping mechanism and you have quite a following of fans who enjoy these videos. (Me being one of them)❤

[@letsgoteamseas5468]

It's more like documentation. Like a journalist does.

[@gracedawn]

I recommend using a 3 sided tarp for next car ride. He doesnt need all that wind blowing on him, nor the flashing scenery, nor the car sickness. ❤

[@LisaMarie-rh5yn]

Poor little baby. As always, I respect your kindness and thought process, Morgan. I also think your wife has the loving mama juju that Elliot really responds to. ❤

[@nicholaslee722]

This is really unfortunate. Hope the calf gets better. You might wanna consider setting up 2 interim stable stalls in your old barn. Each large enough to house a mother and calf with enough space for calf to jump around. This is just in case there's a repeat of what's happening. The stalls at least shelter the calf from the elements while still being able to nurse with its mother. Outside breeding season, they can be used for future temp housing for new cows pending introduction to herd.

[@lucylocket5262]

Could this have something to do with the fact that Elliot has rubber bands around his testicles? Elastration does carry a risk of infection, doesn't it? I do hope he will pull through.

[@victoriabunnag4070]

Sending prayers for a Full Recovery for Elliott and that he is reunited with his Mother. Babies are Fragile and Mother Nature does what she wants. He really responded to your wife...

[@kristimcswain4439]

Aww I can tell Allison is a care giver❤️❤️❤️Good job Morgan recognizing the baby was very ill. Sending love, light, and strength.❤️❤️❤️

[@13MoonsOverMayhem]

Aww, Allison, you have such a gentle and loving heart. ❤

[@outoftheklosset]

Poor baby boy. I hope he is feeling better now and up to running and kicking. Sending love your way.❤💐

[@LiliKinMD]

Holding good thoughts for Elliot. Much love little guy. ❤❤❤

[@albrightfs]

I'm in Central Oregon and if a reason is not found the vets here call it failure to thrive. I had a heifer calf eight years ago that was similar to this. We even did blood transfusions. It was four months of round the clock care before she started to come around... She's now a beautiful healthy cow we named Chanel. As a small farm like you I take pride in the care as you do for the animals in our care. And thankful that we can.. Thank you both for going the extra mile for this little one. So fun to see Allison enjoying taking care of the baby..IF he's not intaking enough milk you might have to tube him. Its not difficult to do and then you know he's getting enough nutrients. Is it possible there may be some sort of toxic weed he could have ingested? And/or he possibly even could have been kicked causing brain swelling .. His lethargy could also be a selenium deficiency (its common here in Oregon but I don't know about Vermont). Just throwing some things out there that we experienced in cattle over the past 15 years. Keep up the great work.. The rewards are worth the time .. And I know your heart is there for this little one.. Sending GOOD Vibes from Oregon for both of you, Momma and baby..