A Real Milking

Up to now, I haven't really milked Pearl.  I've squirted milk out onto the ground, but because Pumba isn't weaned he steals everything. 

Until now that is.

Yesterday hubby put a calf weaner on Pumba (post to come) and this evening I went out to milk.  Pearl was hesitant and a little aggravated at having to be in the stanchion so long.  She didn't kick, but she did pee and poop.  When she finally let down I was able to easily milk the two quarters on the left.  I got some out of a quarter on the right, but she wasn't going to let down for me.  After what seemed like forever, my hands got to the point that I physically couldn't milk anymore.

 

I only got about 2 1/2 cups, but I'll get there.  I don't worry too much about mastitis because beef breeds aren't quite as susceptible.  The plan is to try again in the morning and absolutely push my hands to the limit and beyond.  I had no idea that it would take so much conditioning. 

Hopefully tomorrow morning Pearl will be more willing also.  She will have to get used to it or milking time is going to be a nightmare.

Some people can milk 4 gallons in ten minutes.  While I won't ever get 4 gallons at a time from a Dexter, I hope that soon I can milk her out in that amount of time.  Life would be so much easier for both of us if I could.