New to Dexters

[merrymotheroffour]

Hi everyone. First thread, first Dexter, first new calf born yesterday. I have had goats for a couple years now, and my family drinks their milk. We (meaning I, with the full knowlege of doing all the work) decided to purchase a wonderful Dexter who started as a field cow. I have loved on her for the last few months prior to her calving yesterday to get her comfortable with me and sharing her good milk with my family. She has past all my expectations. I am over joyed. My lack of experience with Dexters worries me however, now that I have a new calf. She is so sweet and little. I have given her what my neighbor gives to his beef cattle...a ADESe vit shot (I normally do a BoSe to my goats as we are low in Selenium here)...I am just wondering about other things...I have looked through the threads for lots of ideas, and they are great.
Should I offer Baking soda to alleviate possible bloat?
Can I add some apple cider vinegar to her water for health? What do Dexter's love as treats, and what are the "healthiest" for them?
Can I put lanolin on her teats to help with the soreness associated with nursing?
How do you "wash" a Dexter? My cow is still a bit dirty from after birth.
Does anyone shave the teats area first before milking? How does the cow respond to the buzzing?

I know, a lot of newbie questions here. Thank you for your responses in advance. You can even advise me further as what my next steps are for the calf...that would be appreciated too.

[ladena]

Hey, welcome to Dexters and the forum. Your new cow sounds like a great girl. FYI, we like pics
I also sent you a private message, take care, LaDena

[dexterfarm]

I dont give anything special. Some do give the BoSe shots.
I use a good non medicated udder balm after milking. Some of mine love apple horse treats and will knock you down to get them. Some of mine dont like them. I dont wash any of mine. just a good brushing gets them clean. I have never tried to cut any hair I dont think mine would tolerate that.

[dexterlady]

Hey Gene, you know they do have CORDLESS trimmers now!..LOL..Just kidding....Dexterlady