There are two Holstein steers at MVFAS - Ben and Jerry - who are now three years old. They were destined for the slaughterhouse before their arrival in August 2002.

Two Holstein heifers - April (8 years old) and June (9 years old) were born at the sanctuary.  Their mother came to the sanctuary in 1991 and died 13 years later.  Another heifer, a Jersey named Daisy, arrived malnourished in August 1996.

In October 2003, three more 6-year old Holstein steers (with horns), each weighing a ton, came to live at MVFAS.  Ferdinand, Clifford and Louis came from Middlebury, Vermont via an owner surrender.

• The Holstein breed originated in Holland.
• Holsteins are larger than most of the other breeds of dairy cattle.
• Holstein milk is lower in fat than is milk from any of the other dairy breeds.
• The primary color patter for the Holstein is black and white, but there is also a red and white variety, called "Red Holstein".
• Feed required for maintenance of a healthy cow or steer is approximately 2 percent of the animal's body weight in dry matter/hay per day.
• The average life span for cattle is 18 to 22 years, though they can live in excess of 25 years. 

about | mission | animals | join | visit | the inn | the area | contact us