Getting stock through a gate is usually very easy as you use their “mobbing” instinct where they move together for security.

Generally all that is needed is for you to walk quietly around the mob while talking or calling them, or use a dog that barks on command if you have one. Animals that are slow or reluctant to move will do so if you walk up to them with a firm determined action to let them know YOU are the dominant animal.

Animals with young can be dangerous as they see your presence as a threat and will be wary of dogs for the same reason.  It is vital you keep your dogs under control when shifting stock. When working with  calves in a paddock, say for ear tagging, always let the cow see its calf, and if possible keep one hand around the calf’s jaw to stop it bellowing. They are likely to react loudly when the ear tag goes through – so be ready.   Never turn your back on the cow and try to avoid being in a situation where you are backed into a corner or against a fence.

Dairy cows have an established social order and will generally not be a problem to shift. All you should need to do is open the gate and call them.  Sometimes – especially if you are moving them to new pasture because they have eaten out a paddock –t he sound of the vehicle or a dog barking will be all you need. 

Drafting a few animals out of a mob

If this is something you have never done or at least not often – get some help.  If you can, find two helpers.  Hold the stock in the corner and draft off the ones you do NOT want,  letting them back behind you into the paddock. 

Don’t be surprised if the ones you have drafted off want to come back to join the mob you are working with. 

Once you have the selected ones held in the corner, open the gate and let them through watching that the ones left in the paddock don’t charge to join them when they see the gate open. 

If you have managed to find some helpers, one person can drive the mob slowly up to the gate with the second person using a drafting stick to cut off the beasts to be drafted. 

The third person stays on the gate to cut off the selected animals. 

If something goes wrong and you encounter a situation that presents a risk to you  or to your animals -  STOP WHAT YOU ARE DOING AND LEAVE IT ALONE.  Come back later and move your stock to a safe yard for handling.