Warning on dealing with cows that have calved

4/5/2001 - By: Michael Commins

A veterinary surgeon in Mayo has warned farmers not to take chances with cows that have calved. The warning comes after the death of a farmer in a cattle pen in East Mayo last week.
News of the tragic death of Tom Murtagh (71) of Ballure, Kilkelly, cast a shadow of sorrow over the region. Tom was a well known and highly respected farmer in the area. While the tragedy took place in the immediate aftermath of a cow calving, it is understood that there was an accidental element to the incident which resulted in such sad consequences and that he was not directly attacked by the cow.
The Mayo vet says people must be on their guard when dealing with animals. "Cows are often in a very agitated state immediately after calving. The hormones are at a different level and it is a big mistake to trust them too much.
"Even the quietest of cows are known to have gone berserk after calving. Children and dogs should never be let near a cow that has just calved. The animals are in a different state of mind and can go for anyone."
The vet, who wishes to remain anonymous, said any suckling cows are prone to excitement after giving birth. "They can go berserk if strange people come near them. The big danger happens if the calf wanders out into the street or yard. People take a lot of chances because they are so used to the cows being quiet and responsive.
"Some cows will snap. What it all boils down to is that you can't trust any of them. I find that the limousin breeds are especially nervous. The switch from hand rearing to suckling in recent years is now a big factor and cows are far more likely to react in a violent manner especially if they think their young calf is under any threat," he said.
A huge crowd attended the funeral of Tom Murtagh on both days as friends and neighbours gathered to pay their respects to Tom Murtagh. Many travelled from Dublin and further afield to show their support for the family in their time of deepest grief. Tom was a true gentleman who was noted for his kindness and decency and the whole area was in shock following the sad tidings of his death.
A wake was held in the family home (where he resided with his brother Hubert) and removal took place to Woodfield Church. After Requiem Mass celebrated by Fr. John Walsh, P.P., Aghamore, Canon Paddy Snee, Fr. Mullins, P.P., Bekan, Fr. Padraig Costello, P.P., Bohola, and Fr. Gallagher, Swinford, burial took place in Culmore Cemetery. The hearts of all went out to the Murtagh family on their very sad bereavement.
Tom, who was predeceased by his wife Bridie, is deeply regretted by his sons T.J. (Ballure) and Patrick (England), daughter Mary Campbell (Midfield), in-laws, grandchildren, brother, relatives, neighbours and friends.