Transport Stress Is Real
Transportation is one of the most stressful experiences in a farm animal’s life, and poor handling during transport can lead to injury, illness, or even death. Planning ahead and following basic safety practices dramatically reduces these risks for both the animal and the people involved.
Choosing the Right Trailer
Make sure your trailer is appropriately sized for the animal and load, with secure flooring that provides good traction and no sharp edges or protrusions that could cause injury. An overloaded or undersized trailer increases stress and injury risk significantly.
Preparing the Animal for the Trip
If possible, allow new animals a period of rest and reduced stress before a long trip, and avoid transporting animals that are already sick, injured, or in late-term pregnancy unless absolutely necessary. A calm, well-rested animal handles transport far better than one that’s already stressed.
Loading Safely
Use calm, quiet handling techniques when loading, allowing animals time to investigate the trailer rather than forcing them in with excessive noise or pressure. Non-slip loading ramps and adequate lighting reduce hesitation and injury risk during the loading process.
During the Trip
Drive smoothly, avoiding sudden stops, sharp turns, and excessive speed, since these movements can cause animals to lose balance and become injured inside the trailer. Plan routes and rest stops in advance for longer trips, and check on animals periodically when safely able to do so.
After Arrival
Give animals time to rest, drink water, and settle in a quiet area upon arrival, watching closely for signs of transport stress including labored breathing, reluctance to move, or signs of injury. A newly arrived animal should also begin the standard quarantine period before joining your existing herd.
Browse our livestock for sale and check our feed and nutrition supplies to support animals after a stressful trip. For transport regulations and best practices, the USDA APHIS publishes detailed guidance.
