1. Scientific Breeding of Does
Scientific breeding begins with ensuring that does have access to sufficient, high-quality food and clean water, allowing them to eat properly and maintain good health. Maintaining a clean living environment is also crucial for the overall well-being of the deer. In addition, regular exercise and proper domestication are important to prevent issues such as over-fertility, stress, or overcrowding, which can lead to miscarriages. Nutrition is another key factor during this period. The diet should be rich in nutrients, with concentrates reaching 1 to 1.25 kg per day, the highest level of the year. Protein feed should make up 30% to 35%, while calcium phosphate should be around 10 to 15 grams, and salt at 10 grams. Roughage must be of good quality, abundant, and varied, with more coarse feed provided at night.
2. The "Four Observations" During Doe Birth
During the birthing process, it's essential to observe the doe closely. First, watch for signs like reduced appetite, restlessness, or unusual behavior. Second, check for the appearance of the water bag or "breaking water," which is a key indicator that labor has begun. For cases of dystocia, early detection, diagnosis, and intervention are vital. Third, observe the birth itself, as some does may exhibit abnormal behaviors such as licking, hitting, biting, or abandoning their young. Prompt identification of these behaviors allows for timely intervention. Finally, ensure the newborns consume colostrum within the first 0.5 to 1 hour after birth. If they cannot do so, find a nursing doe or provide artificial feeding. If a fawn doesn't receive colostrum within 12 to 24 hours, survival chances drop significantly.
3. Proper Care for Nursing Deer
Artificially raised fawns must be fed colostrum, ideally for the first three days. Feeding schedules should be consistent: four times daily for the first 30 days, three times between 31 and 60 days, and two to four times between 61 and 75 days. Quantities should start at 800–1000 ml on the first day, increasing by 10–20 ml each subsequent day. After 60 days, adjust based on the deer’s weight and appetite, gradually reducing by 5–10 ml per day. The milk should be fresh, from disease-free cows, or sheep’s milk that has been boiled and sterilized. Maintain a temperature of 37–38°C, and ensure all feeding equipment is sterilized daily. Keep the environment clean and use isolation methods to prevent urine contamination.
4. Building a Protective Fence for Deer
Adequate fencing is essential for the safety of the herd. Unfortunately, some farms neglect this important aspect. Fences should be installed at the height of the sheds, and grass lining should be used inside, regularly changed and sun-dried to maintain hygiene and prevent disease.
5. Supplemental Feeding Practices
Supplemental feeding not only helps improve the deer’s feeding skills but also strengthens their digestive system, preparing them for weaning. Begin supplementation two weeks after birth, using a protected area. Initially, the fawns may not eat much, but they will gradually adapt and increase their intake. Feed them 4–5 times a day, remove leftovers after one hour, and ensure clean drinking water is always available. Most cases of weaning are due to natural processes, not lack of feeding. It is rare for deer to refuse food after proper supplementation.
6. Batch Milking of Deer
Many farms currently use soaked milk. The main advantage of batch milking is cost-saving, especially in large-scale operations.
7. Domestication of Deer
Domestication enhances a deer’s ability to handle stress and adapt to its surroundings, making weak or shy individuals calmer and more approachable. This makes management easier and safer. The key method is “constant contact.†Staff should frequently interact with the deer, especially during weaning periods, to reduce stress and promote healthy growth.
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