Calf Count Update at Running Springs with Katie Van Slyke

At Running Springs, the excitement is building as we watch our cow family grow with each passing day. Katie Van Slyke, known for her love of these charming animals, recently shared an update, giving us a peek into the new additions, special stories, and unique personalities of these precious calves. Our herd now includes 17 calves, and we're aiming for a total of 25. Join us on this journey through the fields of Running Springs, where Katie introduces us to some familiar faces and a few special newcomers with touching stories.

The Growth of the Cow Family

Starting with a small herd, Katie Van Slyke's cows have grown rapidly. This expansion isn't just about numbers but about establishing a legacy of quality and care. For Katie, this experience is a full-circle moment, recalling her childhood spent on a cattle farm. Now, as she breeds and raises her own cows, she reflects on how far her journey has come. Leona, her very first cow, holds a special place in her heart. Leona has not only grown with Katie but has also contributed significantly to the herd's genetic line, producing several daughters and granddaughters that embody Katie's ideal of strong, well-bred, and docile cows.

Getting to Know the Running Springs Herd

The cows at Running Springs have individual personalities, stories, and quirks. In Katie's recent tour, she took time to introduce some of the herd, including Leona and her daughters. This year, Leona's daughter, Mona Lisa, joined the group, carrying on the beautiful Fleckvieh heritage. Fleckvieh, a red variety of Simmental, adds a European touch to the herd, with Leona's lineage going back to these traditional bloodlines. Unlike the U.S., where Simmentals are often crossed with Angus for a black coat, the Fleckvieh cows maintain their rich red coloring, a feature that makes them stand out at Running Springs.

Special Calves with Special Needs

In the midst of the healthy herd, there's one calf whose journey has been a little different. Recently born with a vision problem, this calf had developed glaucoma in one eye, an extremely rare condition in newborns. After consulting veterinarians and specialists, Katie decided to have the affected eye removed to ensure the calf's comfort and future health. Despite the challenge, this sweet little one has already adapted remarkably well, and Katie has decided to keep her as a cherished member of the Running Springs family. The cow community online has eagerly suggested names for this special calf. Katie hopes to choose a name beginning with "M" to continue this year's naming tradition. While "Mad-Eye Moody" was a popular suggestion, Katie prefers something softer for her sweet girl. Monica or Maya are both top contenders, but Katie encourages everyone to share their ideas.

Breeding with Purpose: The Role of Embryo Transfer

Katie is committed to creating the best herd possible by using advanced breeding techniques, such as embryo transfers. This year, several calves were born from embryos, including a beautiful calf named Mimi. Embryo transfers allow Katie to use top-notch genetics, ensuring that the herd at Running Springs maintains strong traits like health, docility, and quality conformation. Mimi, whose genetic mother is Gigi, one of the most valued cows at Running Springs, is part of a tradition where Katie names Gigi's calves each year. This year, with names starting with "M," Mimi joins the ranks alongside previous names like Kiki and Lulu.

Running Springs: Where Heritage Meets Heart

Running Springs isn't just a farm; it's a place where tradition and innovation meet. Decades ago, this land was used for quarter horse racing, and its legacy continues as a place of high energy and careful breeding. Katie values the land's history, using the flat spaces as pastures where her cows can graze and thrive. Here, these cows have ample space to explore, play, and bond under Katie's care. Whether it's for grazing, breeding, or simply enjoying the rolling fields, each cow at Running Springs is given the room to grow and be part of something larger than themselves

Daily Life with the Mini Cows: A Calf Count to Remember

Each day, Katie checks on the herd to see if any new calves have joined the family. Her calf count is a moment of joy and anticipation, knowing that any day could bring a new addition. Currently, the count is at 17, with eight calves in the front pasture, six in an intermediate area, and a few that require extra care in a special holding pen. Every calf has a unique personality, from the shy Mimi with her freckled nose to the lively, zooming newborns enjoying their morning in the pastures.

Looking Forward to the Future of Running Springs

With a few more calves expected this season, Katie and the Running Springs team eagerly await each new arrival, wondering if they'll be heifers or bulls, red or black. Katie hopes for one more heifer from her roan cow before she heads out for an event, humorously expecting that her cow will wait until she's away to deliver. The next generation of cows at Running Springs isn't just about numbers; it's about building a family that reflects years of dedication, thoughtful breeding, and love for every animal on the farm.

Katie Van Slyke's cows at Running Springs have become a beloved part of her life, a legacy she hopes to pass on. Through moments of triumph, special needs care, and joyful births, Katie's journey with her cows reminds us all of the beauty in farming with purpose and compassion.