How to Put a Cow to Sleep

Cows can sleep while standing up.

Putting a cow to sleep is easy, but only professional cow handlers should do it, according to Mike Sprague, a professional cow handler. Cows can be unpredictable at times, and they have horns, so getting close to them can be dangerous. Cows produce milk even when sleeping. They are sometimes referred to as the foster mothers of the human race. The first cow arrived in the United States in 1611.

Things You'll Need

• A .22 caliber long bullet, .22 magnum, 9 mm round or a .357 magnum
• Rifle or pistol

Instructions

Temporarily

1. Grab the cow by its horns. Cradle its head in you arm.

2. Rub its cheeks with your fingertips. Notice its eyes getting heavy.

3. Lay the cow's head down. The animal will sleep while standing up.

Permanently

1. Hold the barrel of a gun between two and 10 inches from the front of the cow's skull. Aim it perpendicular to the skull to avoid a ricochet.

2. Draw an imaginary "X" from the eyes to the horns. Aim the gun at the intersection of the "X." If the cow doesn't have horns, draw the imaginary "X" to just above the ears.

3. Use a .22 caliber long bullet and rifle or pistol for young animals. For older cows, use a .22 magnum, 9 mm round or a .357 magnum.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not place the gun against the cow's head.

• Only euthanize a cow by firing a bullet if you are trained with guns and understand the ricochet effect.

• Understand the laws of your municipality before discharging the firearm.

References

• Showcase.netic.net: How to Put a Cow to Sleep in Three Easy Steps
• Animal Improvement Programs Laboratory: Facts About Cows
• University of Georgia: Humane Euthanasia of Animals