Goes Why controlled


movement is important for gentling cattle


By Herman Detering Borrowing from the insights and techniques of


natural horsemanship, where close contact and a high degree of cooperation are required, I have focused on the shared prey animal psychology of cattle. I found that using similar gentling techniques caused


them to change their minds about being around humans. Having them want to be with a handler, rather than wanting to escape his presence, results in a tremendous gain in stress reduction, eases all aspects of handling and ultimately, helps the producer’s bottom line. The major approach I use in gentling cattle is to establish psychological rather than physical control


tscra.org


over their movements. I never use ropes to confi ne or move them. To be effective, this requires reducing their natural fear of humans and gaining their respect as a trusted “herd leader.” Such an approach is effective, because freely chosen movement is inscribed deeply in their DNA as their key means of survival. Cattle are migratory, herd-oriented prey animals


that live under range conditions by constant migration in pursuit of food and water, and fl ee when threatened by predators. So, when a handler gains control and direction of this movement, he acquires a signifi cant control over


April 2015 The Cattleman 91


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