The most salient benefits related to portable livestock handling systems pertain to their mobility. These systems are designed to be moved with relative ease from one location to another and are ideal for those farmers whose animals are grazing in several different fields. Rather than moving the animals to a central location, farmers can take the equipment to the animals, which reduces stress on the animals and cuts down on laborious transportation efforts.
Portable Troughs
Often overlooked, but very important, is including portable cattle troughs in any portable livestock handling system. These will be necessary to maintain animals’ access to water and feed during the handling exercises, especially when such a system is set up far away from the animals’ normal grazing grounds. Portable troughs can reduce animal stress with the availability of water and comfort, especially during prolonged handling or treatment sessions.
Troughs, when needed, should be selected with strength, lightweight, and ease of cleaning and transportability in mind. Locate them in strategic places within or alongside the working system for ease of access by the animals without interfering with the flow of work. Cleaning and sanitation of the troughs frequently prevents the spread of diseases among the animals.
Determine What System Is Right for You
The first step in deployment involves choosing an appropriate system for your farm. Consider the size and type of livestock you manage, frequency of use, and tasks you’ll perform. Some systems are designed specifically for cattle, while other systems are better suited to smaller animals like sheep or goats. Identify the features that best meet your needs of operations, such as adjustable panels, integrated weighing scales, or loading ramps.
Safety First in Setup
Safety for the animals and handlers is important when setting up the system. Set up the system on stable, level ground to help it avoid either tipping or shifting while in use. Verify that all panels and gates are locked in place with no sharp edges or protrusions to cause an injury to the livestock. Position the chute system in an area that minimizes distractions, such as excessive noise or other animals.
Train Your Team
If you have a team aiding in the handling of your livestock, they should be taught to know your system’s design and how it operates. Smooth handling and mishaps can be avoided with clear communication and training. Instruct on the movement of the animals through the system in a calm manner. Low-stress handling techniques can be shown to them.
Maintain the Equipment
Your portable system does require regular maintenance to be in good working condition. Before use, always inspect the system for wear and tear, such as rust, loose bolts, or broken panels. Cleaning after handling will also prevent the spread of diseases and maintain a clean environment. Repairs should be done promptly to avoid further damage that may make the system unsafe and nonoperational.
Efficiency Optimization
To save time and effort, organize the system’s layout to streamline tasks. For example, position weighing scales, sorting gates, and troughs close to the loading area for quick transitions between activities. Adjust the system to suit the size of the animals being handled, ensuring a snug fit that prevents unnecessary movement while maintaining comfort.
Portable livestock handling systems are invaluable tools for modern farming, offering unparalleled flexibility, efficiency, and cost savings. By reducing animal stress, enhancing safety, and simplifying essential tasks, these systems help farmers achieve better outcomes in livestock management. Incorporating portable troughs ensures animals remain hydrated and stress-free, further improving their well-being.
To take full advantage of such systems, one should choose the right setup, paying much attention to safety, training your team, and regular equipment maintenance. With thoughtful use and proper care, a portable livestock handling system can become indispensable, supporting the well-being of your animals and the success of your farm.
