APPROACHING ANIMALS

APPROACHING ANIMALS

●         When approaching an animal whether in a shed, stall or paddock, always speak to it before touching it.

●         Approach the animal from the left side and handle from near the neck or possibly the head (beware of horns in case of cattle and buffalo).

●              It is not desirable to carry a stick with you. In case, however, a stick is carried with, it

           preferably be kept hidden.

●           Get some information about the animal from its attendant or owner (whether quiet or viscous); the animals usually are not quiet with the strangers.

●             Treat strange animals with suspicion but do not let the animal suspect that you are afraid of it.

●             The animal should have a head-collar or a halter on; if required, use two ropes on the head-collar and tie one to each pillar ring (more so in case of stallion and bull).

●             Never handle the hind quarters or hind legs without having an animal’s head held and a foreleg lifted/restrained.

●             Take hold of the fore-lock (in horse), ear or nose until a halter has been put on. Do not grasp nose tightly to obstruct breathing.

●             It is important never to make a sudden snatch at a head-collar which alarms the animals and may make it suspicious on future occasions.

●             Young animals are inquisitive and may approach a person of their own accord.

●             Many animals can be trained to come when called; always have a halter or rope ready to put on them. Some fodder or a piece of bread may be used to attract an animal.

●             Some animals kick backwards, others forwards and laterally with their hinds legs. Some cattle kick both ways.

●             Bulls especially over a year old are often treacherous and should be properly secured before being approached by a stranger. They are usually rung before they are one year old.

●             It is wise not to trust a bull.

●             When haltering a horned animal, it is best to slip the poll-piece of the halter over the horns and ears before adjusting the loop round the nose so that the beast may not take the halter off and break loose.

EXERCISES

1.      Give five very important precautions to be observed in approaching large farm animals.

2.      Which way the horse and cattle may generally kick?

3.      Why a stick should not be openly carried with you while approaching an animal?

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