In the realm of livestock handling, powered gates have become a staple for efficiently moving animals, particularly in large CO2 stunning systems for pigs. These systems, when used correctly, can eliminate the need for electric prods. However, it’s crucial that these gates do not knock over or drag animals, as dragging a conscious animal is a violation of Humane Slaughter regulations. The most effective powered gate systems are those that are not fully automatic. It’s essential for animal handlers to have control over the movement of the gates, as fully automated systems often perform poorly. Manufacturers may suggest the possibility of full automation, but in practice, systems with fewer powered gates, controlled by handlers for forward movement, tend to be more efficient and humane. There’s a tendency for manufacturers to sell more powered gates than necessary. The role of powered gates should be akin to providing “power steering,” where human judgement is crucial for quietly moving animals forward. This is particularly true in systems where a powered push gate moves pigs along a long alley. A well-designed system I observed had manual gates leading from the yards, requiring minimal effort to move, and only one lift hoist powered gate to move pigs up a wide main drive alley, controlled by an animal handler. This system also had automated gates for short distances into the CO2 machine but no powered gates for moving pigs out of the stockyards. Fully automated systems often lead to overcrowding, causing pigs to turn around and become difficult to re-orient, especially in long drive alleys leading to the CO2 machine. Speed is a critical factor in the operation of lift hoist gates. A common issue arises when the gate assembly lifts up and moves quickly back over the top of an approaching group of pigs, causing them to stop or turn back. However, one plant found that moving the gate slowly over the pigs doesn’t scare them. The gate sped up only after passing the group. This plant also excelled in timing bunches of pigs, avoiding overloading the main drive alley to the CO2 machine. A common handling mistake is to fill the main alley with animals. The most experienced handlers time the entry of animal groups so that the alley is half empty, allowing for easier and calmer handling. This requires a change in mindset but is crucial for efficient and humane animal handling. In each system, determining the most efficient small bunch of animals is key. Good handling involves more walking to bring up small bunches, which is particularly important when using a crowd pen to direct animals into a single file chute.
