Every large animal veterinarian has at least one story about arriving at a client’s location to work cattle only to find out the client had not prepared. So, here’s a great list for DVMs to send to clients before making those time- consuming farm calls.
- Make sure your alleyway is the proper width so that cattle can’t turn around.
- Have your working facilities set up in a well-lit area.
- Don’t have any areas where the animals may have to jump up or down.
- Check the ground/floor for adequate traction outside the alleyway and chute.
- Get rid of sharp edges.
- Have some extra corral gates close by.
- Have water near.
- Ground has adequate traction for the cattle.
- Double-check your lock mechanisms
- Oil up the entire working area.
Source: Progressive Cattleman, November 2, 2017.
An hour of prep time could save hours of time running those cattle through.