How to Get Cows into Trailer?

Question

If anybody has any good ideas on how to peacefully get a mature cow and her 8-month-old steer into a cow trailer, I would really appreciate hearing from you. Some folks tried to herd them into it last night, but the cows just became terrified and the steer jumped/trashed the fence. I'm trying food today, but I don't know.

Answer 1

One of the ways we used to do it, was use food. But, a lot of cattle are stubborn and don't like to go into places they can't see out of. If your trailer has a window in the front or a door, I would recommend opening it and have someone posted on the other side and have them close it as soon as they get in.

Also, another way is, to push them in by herding them, as you get them passed the trailor door start closing it on them, push it on their behinds and just push it. Have someone on the other side of it with a stick if they need it to kind of hit them with it if they bulk at the trailor still.

Hope I helped you some.

Answer 2

Make sure the pen is controlled. You can use a piece of PVC pipe to wack her on her haunches...makes noise but shouldn't hurt her.

Cattle prod could work also but it's not required.

I once had an Angus Bull wedge his head under a 25' gooseneck trailer and lift it about 3 feet off the ground!

Answer 3

Its easiest if you have a pinch shoot (place where the cows are branded). If you can back the trailer to there and herd them to the shoot they will get on. Out in the open it will almost be impossible.

Answer 4

so you have cows, but you've never put them into a trailer? thats very odd you know. Don't try strapping them down to a flatbed, that wont work...lol

Answer 5

Cattle prod.

Answer 6

get the steer in