How should a handler react if their calf refuses to cooperate in the ring?

When a handler finds their calf refusing to cooperate in the ring, the most effective approach is to stay calm and use gentle encouragement. Remaining composed helps to avoid escalating the situation and reassures the calf, which can often lead to better cooperation over time. Gentle encouragement might include talking softly to the calf, using light pressure on the halter, or offering treats, creating a positive atmosphere.

This method is rooted in the principles of animal behavior and training. Animals generally respond better to calmness and positive reinforcement rather than stress or negative interactions. Training using harsh methods or trying to force the calf could create fear or resistance, making future interactions and training more challenging. Yelling at the calf can lead to increased anxiety and a breakdown in the human-animal bond, while ignoring the calf would fail to address the immediate issue and could lead to confusion during the show. Thus, using gentle encouragement is the most effective strategy for handling a calf in such a situation.