When to look at a Hydraulic Chute Upgrade3712458
When looking at cattle chutes, there are so numerous options available to ranchers. With self-catch, manual catch, and hydraulic options accessible from numerous cattle gear manufacturers, it can be difficult to figure out the right kind of chute for your needs. The search can be overwhelming, however when proper considerations are taken throughout the purchasing process you can discover the correct cattle chute for your requirements with out the headaches!
- Here are 5 issues that could imply you should appear at a hydraulic squeeze chute instead of a manual 1.
1. How numerous cattle are you running?
- Often, the main deciding factor in whether to look at a hydraulic chute is the quantity of cattle you are operating, but too frequently that quantity is elevated. Veterinarian, Roy Lewis says, “my rule of thumb is anybody in the 250-head plus variety for cows would be wise to think about a hydraulic chute to make their life easier”. Looking at a hydraulic chute for 250 head of cattle can significantly enhance your processing occasions, and simplify your life.
- Even in smaller operations, there are occasions it can be useful to look at a hydraulic chute. If you must process your cattle regularly, or complete tasks such as AI and semen testing, a hydraulic chute can make it a lot easier to manage your cattle frequently simply because they are not stressed by the experience.
2. Think about your processing requirements. - What are the tasks you are doing routinely when managing your cattle? When searching at the potential processing benefits of a squeeze chute, look beyond the side access and palpation cage. Whilst these pieces are essential, none of them come into play till after the animal is secured in the chute. The speed of your head gate, safety of the squeeze, and flow of livestock through the chute all play an essential aspect in speeding up the way you process your cattle. - Go via the chute and look at it from a cow’s viewpoint to monitor for tripping hazards, flooring issues, and possible distractions that could trigger cattle to baulk or impede flow. As soon as you have done that, look at the exterior of the chute and ensure you have the tools you need to complete your handling tasks successfully. Lastly, appear at the head gate itself. Head gates that hinge at the bottom in a scissor-motion can be noticed on manual and hydraulic chutes, and are a challenge for cattle to exit. This can outcome in significant delays in livestock flow.
