Investing time and money into a cattle handling system is a big commitment. You want to ensure that your system is efficient, safe, and stress-free for both the cattle and the handlers. To help you achieve this goal, we have compiled a list of 12 commonly overlooked items that can ruin your cattle handling system if not addressed properly.
Hot shots: One of the biggest mistakes you can make is using a hot shot in your cattle handling system. Electric prods should not be needed if you have the right system and proper training. By working in the animal’s flight zone and using good stockmanship skills, you can eliminate the need for hot shots completely.
Not enough alley gates: Adding extra alley gates to your system can greatly improve flexibility in cattle handling, safety features, and the ability to separate cattle more effectively. When in doubt, always opt for adding another alley gate.
Too many cattle at once: Overcrowding the system can lead to tension among the animals, strain on the system, and safety hazards for both humans and livestock. It’s important to only move an animal into the system when there is space for them to move through comfortably.
Bad first experience: Acclimatizing your cattle to the handling system is crucial. Cattle have specific memories and need to be familiarized with the system they will be worked in. Any changes to the system will require re-acclimatization to ensure smooth handling.
Speaking of dead ends: Dead ends can disrupt the flow of cattle through the system and should be avoided at all costs. Carefully review your system to identify possible dead ends and make necessary adjustments such as adding additional alley gates.
Not enough space: Providing adequate space for cattle to move through the system will make handling and processing much easier. Dr. Ron Gill suggests creating cattle flow where they can move past where they need to be with minimal pressure.
Cat walks: Catwalks in a cattle handling system can work against cattle behavior and handling guidelines, as they position handlers above the cattle like predators. Look for designs that keep cattle and handlers on the ground for safer and more effective handling.
Lack of training for employees: Proper training and refresher courses for employees are essential for maintaining cattle safety and reducing stress. Establish a training schedule and ensure that all employees are well-versed in handling procedures.
Skipping the safety check: Performing a quick safety check before using the system can prevent accidents and injuries to both humans and animals. Fix any broken or damaged components to ensure smooth operation.
Acting like a predator: It’s important to work cattle in triangles and avoid moving in arch patterns, which can be perceived as predatory behavior by the cattle. Using straight lines will encourage the cattle to move forward in a calm manner.
Lack of light: Good lighting is essential in a cattle handling facility, as cattle are drawn towards light. Natural daylight is the best option, but if not available, ensure that there is sufficient artificial lighting for both cattle and employees.
Forgetting about flooring: Non-slip flooring is crucial in preventing injuries and maintaining cattle calmness in the handling facility. Investing in specially designed rubber flooring or renovating concrete areas can greatly improve safety and efficiency.
In conclusion, by avoiding these 12 common pitfalls, you can create a low-stress, efficient, and safe cattle handling system on your operation. Remember that continuous improvement and learning from the mistakes of others can lead to success in handling livestock. Make sure to implement these tips and build a system that works for you and your cattle.
If you want to learn more about avoiding common cattle handling mistakes or improving your handling system with a Rolling Alley Gate, check out the links provided. And don’t forget to subscribe to Cattle Weekly’s newsletter for more insightful articles and tips on cattle handling.
Sources:
– Temple Grandin – Behavioral Principles of Livestock Handling
– Ministry of Agriculture, Food & Rural Affairs Ontario
– Temple Grandin – Solving Livestock Handling Problems
– Effective Stockmanship
– Beef Magazine
– Iowa Beef Center
About the Author:
Dana Charban is a Manager of Content Strategies and Journalist for Arrowquip, with a background in agriculture and farming. Learn more about Dana Charban and her work by visiting the link provided.
