Low Stress Handling

Low Stress Handling

Rick Worthington
Rick Worthington
Low Stress Handling

It is important that cows and calves are handled calmly and with as little stress as possible to reduce negative impacts on their health and productivity. It's called Low -Stress handling.

But, don't confuse the concept of low stress with low pressure. The NCBA says pressure is needed to create movement, but it is important to know when to release it. That's one reason why the NCBA hosts a number of events around the country to meet with cattlemen to discuss Low -Stress handling.

"Just getting them to move and do what you want them to do, that's stockmanship, But when I take stockmanship to the next level and use that to actually manage the psychology and well-being of an animal, that's low-stress handling. Use the right pressure at the right time and make sure they have a place to go."

And with calving season coming to a close for many producers, it's a good reminder that processing day can be a pretty stressful day for the animal.

The simple fact is lower stress equals better animal care, better production and better health.

The NCBA does have more events planned - hands on cattle training will take place in Ames, Iowa in June and in Fort Collins, Colorado in August...check the NCBA website for details.

Previous ReportCover Crops Growing in Popularity
Next ReportForbidden Fruits