Raising a Bottle Calf (with a Little Help from C.B.)

Every season on the homestead brings its own surprises. This year, one of the sweetest came in the form of a fuzzy, wide-belted bottle calf—a young Belted Galloway, full of energy and charm. It’s our third season raising a bottle calf here at Blue Grass Bend, and we’ve come to cherish the process—bottle by bottle, step by step. But no one seems to love it more than our horse, C.B.

C.B. didn’t just take an interest this year—he’s been deeply invested in every bottle calf since our first in 2022, when he dramatically and instinctively self-appointed himself their overseer. That first calf had barely taken its first wobbly steps when C.B. came trotting over, ears alert, and immediately set about monitoring the situation. It was as if some long-buried instinct kicked in. From then on, it was his job, and he’s taken it seriously ever since.

This year’s little Beltie arrived during a chilly stretch this spring, just a few days old and without a mother. Shaky on his legs and unsure of the world, he soon found comfort in warm bottles, a dry straw bed—and the quiet, commanding presence of C.B.

Raising a bottle calf takes time, patience, and consistency. Feedings every 6 to 8 hours in those early days were crucial. We mixed warm replacer milk, held the bottle steady, and cheered him on as he figured out how to nurse with gusto. Clean bedding, dry shelter, and close observation helped him thrive, even when the nights dipped cold.

And right there with us, C.B. watched over every moment. If the calf bawled, C.B. would whinny back. If a dog or visitor passed too close, he’d swiftly step between them. His corraling skills are exceptional—he’s quick to block off gates, guide wandering calves back toward safety, and circle them gently with just the right pressure. It’s not something we taught him. It’s just what he does.

As the calf grew stronger and began exploring the pasture, C.B. was always at his side. Trotting alongside him, nudging him gently if he wandered too far, and even lying down nearby for naps—he’s become both guardian and gentle guide.

There’s something grounding about raising animals by hand. It reminds you that homesteading is less about perfection and more about presence. You can plan and prep all you like—but sometimes, it’s the things you don’t expect that make the richest memories. Like an faithful horse stepping into the role of mentor, year after year.

These days, the calf is filling out and learning to graze. He still comes running when he sees us with a bottle, tail wagging like a dog. And just behind him? C.B., ever watchful, ever faithful—proof that every creature has a role to play here on the homestead, sometimes in ways we never see coming.

At Blue Grass Bend, we’ve learned that whether you’re raising a calf or tending tomatoes, love, time, and a little community (even four-legged) make all the difference.

Because here, good things are always just around The Bend.