HELP! Weird situation!

[JasonNCC]

We have a calf that is acting different than I've ever had one act specifically to halter breaking. He was a little nervous at first but you can lead him into the wash rack wash, he stands fine then you can also walk him into the Cool room and tie him up and leave him.  He stands tied fine and acts fine while he's standing there. (Tie him all day and he stands there like a show calf)
The problem is he goes nuts when you try to touch his head. He will only act OK if he has a cable halter on. When you use a rope halter he goes nuts runs and tries to get away or you have to put him in the chute to get it back off.
We have tried everything we can and he just won't let you get near his head. He goes crazy and bawls and shakes. Calf eats fine, looks great, and I haven't ever had one I couldn't get broke....
Any ideas!?!? At wits end here!

 

[shortyjock89]

Put a rope halter on over the cable halter and give that a shot. Always end your sessions on a good note.

 

[vc]

Was he was dehorned? If so he was probably not sedated, you can figure the rest.

You may get him past the fear but it will take time.

 

[JasonNCC]

Probably should have added that. Not dehorned. Just doesn't want his head touched.

 

[hj.380]

I would probably attempt to put him in the chute with the cable halter, little by little begin working your way up to his face, when he freaks out, stop, and start again. (I would go from the neck up.) Then, once he becomes accustomed to this, I would begin getting him used to the rope halter. Touch his face with it, and put it on over the cable halter.
Not sure if this is helpful but this is personally what I would try, because you'll never get anywhere if you force it upon him. It could even cause further distrust.

 

[knabe]

Other than clipping, why do you need to touch his head.