Transporting Cattle, Hogs & Sheep

Livestock hauling is very different than transporting a load of shelf items. Not only are drivers responsible to live animals while on the road but they also often help load and unload the livestock which means they need to know proper care. With any type of livestock, it is important that they be moved in a manner that minimizes stress and pain. That means electrical prods should only be an absolute last resort. Emphasis should be placed on flight zone and point of balance techniques, especially with cattle and hogs, to approach the animal in a way that does not elevate their stress and to guide them with gentle methods such as flags, paddles, or panels.

When loading hogs, ensure loading ramps have a non-slip finish and that the ramp angle does not exceed 20 degrees on non-adjustable ramps or 25 degrees for adjustable as their heart rate increases with steeper ramps. Cleats on the ramps need to be spaced for the animal’s natural walking stride to prevent leg injuries. For a 250-pound hog that would mean eight inches using a cleat measuring one square inch.

All animals are affected by heat and cold. Hogs, for example, cannot sweat to regulate their body temperature, which makes transportation in hot, humid conditions dangerous. Transport should be done in early morning or late in the afternoon and stocking density reduced when temperatures are above 77 degrees Fahrenheit. Cold temperatures can also be hazardous. Bedding of straw is required when the temperature gets below 32 degrees Fahrenheit and some ventilation holes will need to be blocked.