Reminders for Cattle Transport

By  Heidi Carroll

An accident involving a cattle truck in Indiana on July 11th sheds light on how quickly the beef industry hits the media spotlight. In this specific case, creating a less than desirable outcome for agriculture. As summer heat and drought conditions push potential weaning dates ahead on the calendar many cattlemen may start to feel crunched for time and become overwhelmed by the management decisions they need to make. In times of stressful situations, haste can make waste, so take time to slow down and ensure the safety of people and cattle. Here are a few reminders to plan for successful handling experiences each time cattle are transported.

Prepare
Do the math.
Calculate trailer stocking densities based on current cattle weights to determine the number of trailers or trips needed. Follow industry loading recommendations for cattle pots and stock trailers. Then double check the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating and review weight restrictions for the roads you will be traveling. Note that some South Dakota county or township bridges may have weight restrictions this fall, so check with county officials if you have questions regarding bridges in your area.
 
Minimize injuries.
Evaluate all areas of the handling facilities prior to bringing cattle into them. Repair any broken areas and cover sharp corners. Gates should be free-swinging and have quick, secure latches. Ensure that loading ramps are in good repair and secure. Don’t overlook the importance of good footing even in times of dry conditions – remove rocks and take time to level dirt surfaces that receive high traffic to save on potential cattle lameness and handler injuries (e.g. rolled ankles).
 
Check the records.
It is important every time cattle are being transported to ensure they are fit for transport. Review treatment records and verify withdrawal times have been met before loading cattle. Identify at least one person to be in charge of making the final decision on whether all animals are healthy enough for transport or if any animal would require humane euthanasia. Shipping calves is stressful, so making sure each calf is ready for the trip will optimize their well-being and chances of remaining healthy when they arrive at their destination. Don’t overlook the paperwork that is required for your truck and trailer. Review South Dakota vehicle permit information.
 
Ready the crew.
Success is impacted by the crew’s understanding and the clarity of expectations communicated by the manager or owner to each crew member, including a hired trucker. Discuss the path cattle will take and each persons’ position throughout the facility. Highlight potential trouble areas, such as tight corners, narrow alleys, or pinch points along the lead-up alley and chute. A verbal reminder of how to properly use handling aids (if provided) and apply pressure to cattle and release it with handler position via their flight zone and point of balance helps to ensure a low-stress handling experience for cattle.
 
Weather factors.
When temperatures climb, take steps to keep cattle and crew safe. Provide additional water and factor in a timely break for crew if working cattle all day. Place water tubs in cattle holding or sorting pens when possible. This can especially be beneficial if cattle are being transported a long distance. As cooler fall temperatures approach, plan accordingly for both crew and cattle.
Emergency kits.

First-aid and emergency road kits are often overlooked. We all know that accidents can happen, from cuts and bruises to major truck rollovers. Being ready for the unexpected can lessen the stress in the midst of all types of incidents. Prepare a basic human first-aid kit for your facilities and trucks. Additionally, consider having basic veterinary supplies for cattle emergencies and proper equipment to perform humane euthanasia. Create a printed paper with emergency contact numbers to call (laminate or seal in a plastic Ziploc bag).

In the Moment
Read the cattle.
Cattle clearly communicate with the handler whether they are comfortable or getting stressed by the handling process. Cattle responses are directly related to the amount and type of previous handling – cattle on pasture that see people once per year are much flightier and may respond more unpredictable than cattle with more frequent human interactions. Each person should stay attuned to cattle behavior to know if they need to change their handling techniques or adjust the amount of pressure they are applying to individual animals. The goal is to have cattle walking or trotting through the whole process, not charging, piling up in corners, or trying to escape over gates.