Exploring industry perspectives and preferences about calf handling and restraint methods used during spring processing of calves in western Canada.

Abstract

Calf processing events have important animal health, management, and sociocultural roles in the beef cattle industry. In western Canada, the three most commonly used methods for spring processing are roping and wrestling (RW), roping and Nord fork (NF), and tilt table (TT). The objective of this study was to understand the preferences and perceptions of handling event participants about calf handling and restraint methods commonly used during western Canadian beef calf processing events during the spring season. Data were collected using a mixed-methods online questionnaire. Quantitative analysis was used to describe the study participants and determine preference rankings. Qualitative, thematic analysis was used to explore participants' perceptions about the common handling and restraint methods and to identify values within and across participants. The majority of participants were farm hands or staff members (92.8%), followed by owners (4.9%), family members (1.4%), friends (0.5%), and others (0.4%). The most preferred method to use was RW, and TT was the least preferred (χ² = 3239.1, df = 6, p < 0.001). Participants shared values regarding calf safety and stress, processing efficiency, convenience, human safety, and labor intensity when explaining their preference to use calf handling and restraint methods for spring processing. Responses highlighted the need for understanding and skill in low stress handling and processing tasks in order for any of the methods to be effective. These values identify aspects to address when developing best practice recommendations for calf handling and restraint. Furthermore, focusing communication through the lens of these shared values will likely positively engage participants in extension efforts and community discussions.