Cattle dogs are a critical component of the spring branding season on ranches across the United States. This is the time when calves are branded, vaccinated, and ear-tagged. The work is fast-paced, intense, and requires a great deal of skill from both the ranchers and their dogs.

One breed of dog commonly used during the spring cattle branding season is the Australian Cattle Dog, also known as the Blue Heeler. This breed was originally developed in the 1800s in Australia to work with cattle in harsh environments. Their intelligence, loyalty, and herding abilities make them well-suited for the fast-paced and high-pressure work of branding cattle.

Cattle Dogs During Branding Season

During the branding season, cattle dogs are used for several tasks. First, they are used to gather the cattle from the pastures and bring them to the branding pens. This requires a great deal of skill, as the dogs must navigate difficult terrain and often deal with large and sometimes uncooperative animals.

Once the cattle are in the branding pens, the dogs are used to keep them calm and under control while the ranchers work. They may circle the pen, nip at the heels of unruly cattle, or even jump up and bite the ears of particularly stubborn animals to bring them under control.

During the branding process, cattle dogs are also used to help manage the calves. They may hold them in place while they are branded or vaccinated, or move them to different pens as needed. This requires a great deal of precision and skill on the part of both the dogs and the ranchers.

Overall, the work of cattle dogs during the spring branding season is physically and mentally demanding. They must be able to work for long hours in difficult conditions, remain calm and focused amidst the chaos of the branding pens, and work closely with their human counterparts to get the job done efficiently and effectively.

Trust Between Dog and Ranchers

Despite the challenges, working with cattle dogs during the spring branding season can be deeply rewarding. It requires a great deal of trust and teamwork between the dogs and the ranchers, and the bond that develops between them can be incredibly strong. 

For ranchers who work with cattle dogs year-round, this bond can be even stronger, as they rely on their dogs for a variety of tasks, from gathering the cattle for slaughter to managing the herd in the pasture.

Keeping Your Dog Healthy During Cattle Branding

Dogs that are used for herding cattle or other livestock should have regular veterinary check ups to ensure they are healthy and in good condition to perform their duties. Herding dogs are typically active and high-energy breeds, and may be at increased risk for certain health issues, such as joint problems or injuries related to their activity level.

Regular checkups with a veterinarian can help ensure that your dog is up to date on vaccinations, is free from parasites and other health issues, and is receiving appropriate care to support their overall health and well-being. Your vet can also provide guidance on nutrition, exercise, and other factors that can affect your dog's health and performance as a herding dog.

CBD to Maintain Joint Health

Fortunately, CBD oil for dogs can help your pup's joints stay healthy during and between branding season. CBD works by interacting with natural receptors found in your dog's body to help regulate pain and inflammation. The receptors are called CB1 and CB2, and both are found throughout the body.

When your dog is provided with CBD treats, like Canine Cush, the CBD binds to the receptors, thereby providing the following benefits:

• Pain relief: CBD oil can help reduce inflammation and pain in your dog’s joints or muscles. This can make life easier for your dog, especially if they have arthritis or another painful condition that causes discomfort when they move around or exercise.

• Reduces Inflammation: Reduces stiffness and soreness after exercise or injury, which helps to reduce inflammation in joints or muscles and improve general mobility. 

• Homeostasis: CBD restores the body's homeostasis, or balance, by interacting with endocannabinoid system receptors to enhance overall well-being. 

CBD also offers a natural alternative to NSAIDs that are commonly used in this industry to reduce pain and inflammation. 

Additional Supplements for Dog Joint Health

There are other supplements besides CBD oil that can help your dog’s joints thrive. Some you may have heard of; others you may not have known about before this article. These include:

• Eggshell membrane: Natural eggshell membrane, also referred to as NEM, contains collagen, glucosamine, hyaluronic acid, and chondroitin sulfate. All of these are known to have anti-inflammatory effects on a dog’s body. And yes, it is that clear membrane you see when peeling your egg! 

• Boswellia: Boswellia may benefit dogs with arthritis who suffer from joint pain and stiffness. It may also help reduce the inflammation associated with other inflammatory diseases such as colitis, gastric ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and even skin allergies.

• Curcumin: Turmeric contains curcumin which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and pain associated with injuries or joint problems. Curcumin can also improve mobility in dogs with arthritis by reducing inflammation within the joints. This makes it easier for them to move around without experiencing pain or stiffness when they're walking or running around outdoors.

Rather than purchasing each supplement individually, Canine Cush has incorporated all of the above ingredients into their Canine Cush soft chews. 

So, in addition to providing the benefits from CBD, your dog will also be reaping benefits from eggshell membrane, boswellia, and curcumin, all in one delicious chew!

We know this sounds too good to be true, but you can take a look at the verified reviews here. Our mission is to help relieve dogs' joint pain, and that’s what we’re doing here.

A True Bond

Cattle dogs are an integral part of the spring branding season on ranches across the United States. Because they are smart, loyal, and good at herding, they are a good fit for the fast-paced, high-pressure work of branding season. 

While the work can be physically and mentally demanding, the bond that develops between the dogs and their human counterparts can be incredibly strong and rewarding. For ranchers who work with cattle dogs year-round, these dogs are an essential part of their daily lives and the success of their ranching operations. 

→Highly Recommended: The veterinary-formulated dog joint health supplement, guaranteed to help keep your dogs working for many years into the future← 

Read More: 

Australian Cattle Dog Dog Breed Information

Antioxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Cannabidiol

The Effects of Cannabinoids on Pro- and Anti-Inflammatory Cytokines

What's in a Brand? History of Cattle Branding

Eggshell Membrane: A Possible New Natural Therapeutic for Joint and Connective Tissue Disorders

Boswellia Serrata, A Potential Antiinflammatory Agent

Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Curcumin in the Inflammatory Diseases

Photo by Lukas Ruzicka on Unsplash