Jasmine Entz fell in love at first sight with Beef, a scrawny calf covered in straw born at dawn in August 2017. Entz, from Vulcan County, Alta., decided to bring the calf home after weaning him off milk with her boss’s approval.
Despite not understanding why, Entz, 29, had always wanted a steer she could ride. Little did she know that Beef would grow to be a global sensation, surpassing the record for the world’s tallest living steer at 1.95 meters (six foot five).
Beef, now eight years old and weighing 1,100 kilograms (2,400 pounds), is a massive Holstein that requires about 45 kilograms of hay daily, costing $400 a month. Entz shared that steers like Beef never stop growing, and he has outgrown his trailer.
Originally meant to be a pet, Beef was trained by Entz to pull a cart and later to be ridden. However, after an injury, he had to take a break from riding due to the need for custom equipment to fit his size. Over time, suggestions from friends made Entz realize Beef’s potential for breaking records.
Beef now spends his days grazing with his companions on the farm, including Josie, a white cow, a horse named Talent, and over 50 miniature goats. Despite his massive size, Beef is described as a laid-back animal who enjoys lounging and, of course, eating.
As fall arrives, Beef’s love for pumpkins is evident as he devours an entire pickup full of pumpkins in just three hours, eagerly lighting up at the sight of the seasonal treat.
