Shopping for a family milk cow and not sure what to ask (or how to handle breeding once she’s home)? This episode is your confidence boost. I walk you through the exact questions to ask any seller—records, lactations, calving history, udder health, handling, temperament, production, due dates (vet-confirmed!), and a live milking demo—plus where to look (local homestead dairies, reputable sale groups, commercial dairies) and red flags to avoid.
We also dig into breeding basics after purchase: AI vs. keeping/borrowing a bull, real costs and logistics, timing and success rates, and what to consider if you need to keep a closed herd or maintain milk while breeding. Finally, I touch on first-aid and health must-knows (mastitis signs, bloat emergencies, chapped teats) and a few tools and natural-care avenues to have on hand.
If buying a cow feels intimidating, I hope this gives you language, questions, and a plan. You’re allowed to ask everything—and a good seller will gladly answer. Hit play, take notes, and step into cow ownership with clarity and peace.
P.S. Tell me what you’re shopping for and where you’re stuck—email me at connect@simplylivinghomestead.com. If this helped, follow the show and leave a quick review so more homesteading mamas can find simple systems and really good milk right at home.
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