Mastering Livestock Handling: Key Practices to Prevent Losses and Injuries on Your Ranch

Prioritizing the well-being of your livestock may be vital to the success of your ranch, but your own safety should not be overlooked. You can prevent losses and injuries on your ranch by knowing some of the best practices when it comes to livestock handling. 

First, have quick exits and alternate routes of escape inside any pen. If you’re entering a space with livestock that doesn’t have a secondary exit, you shouldn’t go in. Instead, make plans to install another door or have a back-up person to support you in the case of an emergency. 

Second, know their signs of body language. For example, a tail between the legs means they are cold, and a tail straight down means they’re relaxed and calm. Things that could potentially startle them are loud noises, excessive changes, or highly contrasting colours. 

Third, be mindful of the mother. Mamas will do anything at times to protect their young, and you don’t want to provoke her or disturb the larger crowd. Make sure to always keep them together when circumstances permit. 

Fourth, wear safety equipment. If you feel underdressed to wrestle with a bull, don’t go in. Wearing and keeping a spare helmet and gloves nearby at all times can make a difference in preventing losses.

Lastly, know their blind spots. When you know the spaces your livestock can’t see, you won’t sneak up on them. When approaching or handling a farm animal, make sure to stay facing forward and speak in a soothing tone. By taking these safety measures into account, you can prevent losses and injuries on your farm. 

To learn more about loss control and how it can help reduce losses on your farm, contact the Sandbox Mutual Insurance team.

Please note that the information in this article may not accurately reflect your insurance policy from Sandbox Mutual Insurance or another insurance company. Please refer to your policy or talk to your broker about your specific coverages.