Agri-Pro Enterprises of Iowa, Inc. Barnes-Style Dehorner

The dehorners come in several sizes, so it is important to select a size big enough to remove the horn and a 1/4 to 1/2 inch circle of skin at the base of the horn. Inject each animal with a local analgesic. Place the Barnes Dehorner so the widest part of the cutting blade is aligned with the widest part of the base of the horn. Close the handles of the instrument and place it on the calf’s horn. Dehorning is completed by pressing the instrument firmly against the calf’s head and quickly opening the handles of the dehorner. A twisting motion, when the handles are nearly completely opened, assures a complete cut through the skin.

Use a pair of forceps to pull the bleeding vein to stop the bleeding. If it is still bleeding, use a blood stop powder or use a hot iron to cauterize the wound. Disinfect dehorner between animals. Keep animals in an area that is sprayed for flies. Monitor animals for infection for the next 2 weeks.