Cattle Preparation Strategies for a Featherlite® Livestock Trailer
If you're going to travel with cattle, a Featherlite® livestock trailer can help you transport the animals to your destination safely. Typically, you'll have no problems getting a herd into this type of trailer. However, if you fail to prepare for the trip, the animals could create problems on the road. These preparation strategies will help you conquer the road with your cattle.
For more information about Featherlite livestock trailers, visit our location in Centerville and Hurricane, Utah, serving Salt Lake City, Odgen, St. George, and Washington, Utah.
Get the Proper Plug
Every truck that will tow a trailer needs a plug for a cargo trailer. The best plug is a universal plug because it will activate the trailer's brakes and lights. In most cases, you can acquire this type of plug from a dealership that provides rental trucks.
Use Straw
The interior of a trailer usually has a slippery floor. Therefore, if a cow tries to stand on a slick floor while a trailer is moving, an accident could happen. The easiest way to prevent slips and falls is by covering a trailer's entire floor with straw.
A layer of straw can also provide stability after severe weather strikes. The biggest threat is heavy rain because it can create slippery spots inside of a trailer. If the floorboards in a trailer are very slippery when a cow tries to step onto the ground, the animal may panic and fall.
Get a Practical Parking Spot
If you park a livestock trailer in a proper location, you'll make all loading procedures more convenient for the cattle. Clearance is the key, so it's best to park on a hill whenever you're going to unload a cargo trailer. No matter where you park on a hill, ensure that the trailer's door has clearance. It should open completely with no restrictions.
Consider the Weather
Besides rain, extreme temperatures can make some trips uncomfortable for cattle in an open cargo trailer. For example, on a cold day, you must consider the wind because colder air will enter the trailer while it's moving on a highway.
On a hot day, high heat and humidity can cause problems for your cattle. If you schedule a trip very early during the day, you'll avoid extreme heat, which usually reaches its peak late in the afternoon.
If you need a trailer for your cattle, we have brand-new Featherlite livestock trailers at Double B Trailer Sales. We have locations in Hurricane and Centerville, Utah, and we sell trailers to consumers near Odgen, Salt Lake City, St. George, and Washington, Utah.