Microsoft Word - 116197_LearnerG.docNQF Level: 1 US No:
116197
The availability of this product is due to the financial support of
the National Department of Agriculture and the AgriSETA. Terms and
conditions apply.
Version: 01 Version Date: July 2006
22 Observe and handle animals
Primary Agriculture NQF Level 1 Unit Standard No: 116197
BBeeffoorree wwee ssttaarrtt…… Dear Learner,
This Learner Guide contains all the information to acquire all the
knowledge and skills leading to the unit standard:
Title: Observe and handle animals
US No: 116197 NQF Level: 1 Credits: 5
The full unit standard is attached at the end of this Learning
Guide. Please read the unit standard at your own time. Whilst
reading the unit standard, make a note of your questions and
aspects that you do not understand, and discuss it with your
facilitator.
This unit standard is one of the building blocks in the
qualifications listed below. Please mark the qualification you are
currently doing:
Title ID Number NQF Level Credits Mark
National Certificate in Animal Production 48970 1 120
National Certificate in Mixed Farming Systems 48971 1 120
Please mark the learning program you are enrolled in:
Your facilitator should explain the above concepts to you.
You will also be handed a Learner Workbook. This Learner Workbook
should be used in conjunction with this Learner Guide. The Learner
Workbook contains the activities that you will be expected to do
during the course of your study. Please keep the activities that
you have completed as part of your Portfolio of Evidence, which
will be required during your final assessment.
You will be assessed during the course of your study. This is
called formative assessment. You will also be assessed on
completion of this unit standard. This is called summative
assessment. Before your assessment, your assessor will discuss the
unit standard with you.
EEnnjjooyy tthhiiss lleeaarrnniinngg eexxppeerriieennccee!!
Learnership?
33 Observe and handle animals
Primary Agriculture NQF Level 1 Unit Standard No: 116197
HHooww ttoo uussee tthhiiss gguuiiddee …… Throughout this guide,
you will come across certain re-occurring “boxes”. These boxes each
represent a certain aspect of the learning process, containing
information, which would help you with the identification and
understanding of these aspects. The following is a list of these
boxes and what they represent:
What does it mean? Each learning field is characterized by unique
terms and definitions – it is important to know and use these terms
and definitions correctly. These terms and definitions are
highlighted throughout the guide in this manner.
Examples of certain concepts or principles to help you
contextualise them easier, will be shown in this box.
You will be requested to complete activities, which could be group
activities, or individual activities. Please remember to complete
the activities, as the facilitator will assess it and these will
become part of your portfolio of evidence. Activities, whether
group or individual activities, will be described in this
box.
This box indicates a summary of concepts that we have covered, and
offers you an opportunity to evaluate your own progress and / or to
ask questions to your facilitator if you are still feeling unsure
of the concepts listed.
MMyy NNootteess …… You can use this box to jot down questions you
might have, words that you do not understand,
instructions given by the facilitator or explanations given by the
facilitator or any other remarks that
will help you to understand the work better.
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44 Observe and handle animals
Primary Agriculture NQF Level 1 Unit Standard No: 116197
WWhhaatt aarree wwee ggooiinngg ttoo lleeaarrnn??
What will I be able to do? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
What do I need to know? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Observe & Handle Animals – An Introduction . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Session 1: Observe, Record and Report Behaviour and Physical
Attributes . . . . . . . 6
The most important observation to report; Abnormal behaviour by
form animals.
Session 2: Animal Behaviour and Attributes Regarding Abnormalities
. . . . . . . . . . 11
Normal behaviour that might look abnormal; Reporting of abnormal
behaviour.
Session 3: Move Animals To and Into a Holding Facility . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
General principles in handing of animals; Approach to
animals.
Session 4: Restrain Animals in a Restraint Facility . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Facilities for the Handling of Animals; General Aids for the
Handling of Animals; Inspecting a Restraining Facility
Terms and Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Version: 01 Version Date: July 2006
55 Observe and handle animals
Primary Agriculture NQF Level 1 Unit Standard No: 116197
WWhhaatt wwiillll II bbee aabbllee ttoo ddoo?? On completion of
this unit, you will be able to handle animals and observe their
health status. In addition you will be well positioned to extend
your learning and practice into other areas of animal production,
ensuring healthy animals and humane treatment.
You will specifically be able to:
Observe, record and report behaviour and physical attributes.
Evaluate animal behaviour and attributes regarding abnormalities.
Move animals to and into a holding facility. Restrain animals in a
restraint facility.
You will also be able to demonstrate a basic knowledge &
understanding of:
The names and functions of the various animals. Diseases and
abnormalities. Symptoms relating to animal health. Rules and codes
of conduct relating to the movement, handling and observation of
animals.
The ability to handle animals confidently, safely and humanely.
Recording procedure as well as simple report writing skills. Animal
retention infrastructure control and maintenance skills.
WWhhaatt ddoo II nneeeedd ttoo kknnooww?? It is assumed that a
learner attempting this unit standard will show competence against
the following unit standards or equivalent:
NQF 1: Basic external animal anatomy and morphology.
OObbsseerrvvee && HHaannddllee AAnniimmaallss –– AAnn
IInnttrroodduuccttiioonn To be a successful livestock farmer you
must be trained to observe an animal close by. It takes a trained
eye to observe behavioural difference in farm animals and spot
abnormalities in behaviour. More about this in Session 1.
To be a successful livestock farmer, you must also be able to
evaluate the signs of abnormal behaviour. Sometimes the abnormal
behaviour is a very obvious and telltale behaviour. The more subtle
the behaviour the more difficult it becomes to observe. More about
this in Session 2.
When abnormal behaviour is identified, action must be taken. The
action taken is most of the time action that needs contact with the
animal and even catching or capturing the affected animal. There
are a few points to be kept in mind. More about this in Session
3.
Depending on the type of farm animal that must be restrained, the
facilities will differ. It is advisable to select animals that are
tame to work with for training purposes. This will be done with the
assistance of the facilitator and/or a herdsman. More about this in
Session 4.
Version: 01 Version Date: July 2006
66 Observe and handle animals
Primary Agriculture NQF Level 1 Unit Standard No: 116197
SSeessssiioonn 11
o be a successful livestock farmer you must be trained to observe
an animal close by. It takes a trained eye to observe behavioural
difference in farm animals and spot abnormalities in
behaviour.
For example, a person that grew up among sheep will see that every
sheep differ from the other. On the other hand, for a person that
grew up in a city all sheep in a flock will look alike in terms of
appearance and they will not be able to spot behavioural
differences. The eye of the farmer or herdsman must be trained to
see abnormal behaviour in their farm animals. To achieve this
ability you must at first become familiar with the normal behaviour
and physical attributes of the studied animals. Most farm animals
differ in one or more anatomical aspects yet most of the time their
everyday habits like feeding, mating, drinking and sleeping will
not differ much. For certain breeds, their outside appearance will
fall in the rare description of that particular species.
On close observation, it is most of the time possible to tell very
accurately when there is something extraordinary about its
behaviour. Although a person must be well trained to evaluate
certain behaviour and diagnose certain conditions, abnormalities
can easily be observe if a learner is keen and aware of possible
abnormalities.
A visit to a farm facility or farming enterprise where there are a
lot of animals need to be done where animals will be observed. An
experienced person will teach you on behavioural of farm animals
under different circumstances and meanings or indications attached
to each behaviour pattern. Once you are familiar with the behaviour
of the animals, you can work on the activity that follows.
TT
OObbsseerrvvee,, RReeccoorrdd aanndd RReeppoorrtt
BBeehhaavviioouurr aanndd PPhhyyssiiccaall
AAttttrriibbuutteess
After completing this session, you will be able to: SO 1: Observe,
record and report behaviour and physical attributes.
Now complete activity 1.1 in your workbook.
MMyy NNootteess …… . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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77 Observe and handle animals
Primary Agriculture NQF Level 1 Unit Standard No: 116197
11..11 TThhee MMoosstt IImmppoorrttaanntt OObbsseerrvvaattiioonn
ttoo RReeppoorrtt
When you are acquainted with the normal behaviour of certain farm
animals it is also important that any abnormalities are observed.
Most of the time a well-trained eye can spot a sick animal at a
very early stage. That is important because in most cases if a
disease or condition is treated early the chance that the animal
will survive without any permanent damage is much better. It is
also very important that the observer reports the condition as
quick as possible to his supervisor so that steps can be taken to
take care of and treat the animal. There are a few very important
signs to aid the observer in identifying an abnormality. Certain of
the anatomical parts of an animal can give tell tale signs of
illness.
TThhee ffoolllloowwiinngg ppooiinnttss ccaann bbee kkeepptt iinn
mmiinndd ttoo oobbsseerrvvee ffaarrmm aanniimmaallss ffoorr
eeaarrllyy ssiiggnnss ooff iillllnneessss..
The animal’s eyes – dull or sunken eyes. Although it’s not always
possible to come close enough to an animal to look at the eyelids,
the inside of the eyelid can give a lot of information on the
condition of the animal. If it is pale or yellow it must be
reported to the supervisor. The expression of the eyes is also
important. If it is bewildered or dull looking something could be
wrong with the animal. Especially in tamed animals a sharp
observing person can easily observe this abnormalities. It can be a
serious condition so it must be reported to the supervisor.
Abnormalities like dry or abnormal excretions of the nose, slimy or
purulent discharges from one or both nostrils. Dry muzzle in
cattle.
Abnormalities of the mouth like grinding teeth or untidy and excess
mucus excretion from the nose and saliva from the mouth. Especially
with farm animals like goats, sheep and horses with normally clean
mouths.
Abnormalities of the ears and rubbing or scratching of the
ears.
Horn deformities. Although it may happen over a long period, it
must be reported and looked after.
Any abnormalities of the head like swelling of the lips or a bag
under the jaw or warts and sores must be reported for
treatment.
Abnormalities of the genitals. That can be bleeding, discoloured
mucus secretion, swelling, puss secretions, and prolapsed, injury
and even ticks on the genital area.
Abnormalities of the anus, prolapsed, painful defecation, presence
of ticks, dry and/or abnormal faeces (including bloody or slimy
excreta).
Version: 01 Version Date: July 2006
88 Observe and handle animals
Primary Agriculture NQF Level 1 Unit Standard No: 116197
Abnormalities of the hair coat. A healthy animal has, most of the
time, a well- groomed glossy coat. Wool sheep and Angora goats
won’t lose too much wool or hair with normal handling. If an
animal, like dairy cattle, beef cattle or boar goat’s hair coats,
for example looks untidy and dull or fluffy then the animal must be
observed carefully for other telling signs of illness. Such animal
must be reported to the supervisor if suspected. However most
animals within species and breeds will shed their hair coat before
summer and that will be normal but some diseases also affect the
hair coat.
Abnormalities of the legs. Especially where animals walk among
sharp things or rocky areas their legs and joints can be injured by
something. There are also diseases that make the legs swell and
when a swelling is observed in an animal, it must be reported,
diagnosed and treated.
Injuries to the hoofs of cattle, sheep, goats and horses are very
common and must be treated. Abnormal long hoof in cattle, horses,
sheep and goats must be reported and rectified by cutting and
caring of the hoof.
The condition of the udder of lactating farm animals is very
important for rearing their young or production in the case of
dairy cattle. Report sensitive, injured, tick infected and any
other abnormal case to the supervisor.
11..22 AAbbnnoorrmmaall BBeehhaavviioouurr bbyy FFaarrmm
AAnniimmaallss Sometime the animal will not show abnormalities on a
specific anatomical part of the body but the appearance and
behaviour as a whole will raise the alarm that it is ill. The
animal will appear listless (none energetic) and will sometimes
lack behind and appear lazy. Shallow breathing or on the other hand
fast breathing (hyper respiration) will also indicate ill
health.
SSiiggnnss ttoo llooookk ffoorr aass aabbnnoorrmmaall The following
are signs to look for:
Wobbly gait; Limpy walk muscular trembling; Bloating* of the rumen
or stomach; Shallow breathing; Inability to stand; Laying down with
legs extended behind;
Bloating: A condition where the rumen is distended / filled with
excessive air or froth.
Now complete activity 1.2 in your workbook.
MMyy NNootteess …… . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
99 Observe and handle animals
Primary Agriculture NQF Level 1 Unit Standard No: 116197
Incoordination; Excessive sweating (in horses); Stiffness; Lost
appetite; Discoloured or blood stained dung and urine; Listless;
Stand alone or wondering aimlessly; Appear tamed although they are
wild; Staggering; Severe excitability (run around wildly before
becoming so in-coordinated that they fall down);
Anxious appearance; Drooling at the mouth and vomiting; Drop in
milk production; Convulsions; Craving or pica (pica = chew on
foreign objects); Panting; Fever; Ulcers on the body; Warts;
Coughing and Low bellowing (in cattle).
There are a few signs to look for that are a typical sign of pain
especially in horses:
Sweating; Kicking at the abdomen (horses with colic); Looking at
the flank and swishing of the tail; Horses may even roll and show
agony; Grinding of the teeth; Bending backwards; and Uneven
breathing.
AAbbnnoorrmmaalliittiieess ooff ffaarrmm aanniimmaallss iinn
pprroodduuccttiioonn Farmers farm with certain animals to produce
certain products. A wool sheep farmer’s aim is to produce as much
quantity of high quality wool and meat as possible. A dairy farmer
will produce milk, a beef farmer beef, a mutton farmer mutton, a
pig farmer pork or bacon and a chicken farmer eggs and chicken
meat. It is important that a farmer produces products of high
quality to compete with other farmers for the best price for their
product. Therefore a farmer must keep his farm animals healthy and
well fed to produce good quality products to their potential.
Version: 01 Version Date: July 2006
1100 Observe and handle animals
Primary Agriculture NQF Level 1 Unit Standard No: 116197
AAbbnnoorrmmaalliittiieess iinn mmiillkk pprroodduuccttiioonn There
are a few abnormalities that can affect the quality of milk like
the following:
Blood stained milk; Clots in the milk; Thin, watery liquid with a
few clots; Greyish or Brown appearance in the milk; Feverish and
sensitive udder; Hard lumps in the udder; Sudden decrease in milk
production; Fowl smelling milk; and Milk contaminated by medicines
like antibiotics.
AAbbnnoorrmmaalliittiieess ooff wwooooll Uneven crimping of the
wool; Discolouring of the wool; Lumpy wool; Broken or tender wool;
and Yellow colour of wool.
Concept (SO 1, AC 1-3)
I understand this concept
The ability to observe and evaluate animal behaviour is
demonstrated.
The ability to observe and evaluate animal physical attributes is
demonstrated.
The ability to record and report on animal behaviour and physical
attributes is demonstrated.
Antibiotics: Substances that are meant for fighting of bacterial
diseases in the body.
MMyy NNootteess …… . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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1111 Observe and handle animals
Primary Agriculture NQF Level 1 Unit Standard No: 116197
SSeessssiioonn 22
o be a successful livestock farmer, you must also be able to
evaluate the signs of abnormal behaviour. Sometimes the abnormal
behaviour is a very obvious and telltale behaviour. The more subtle
the behaviour the more difficult
it become to observe. The climate can also play a role and must be
considered when evaluating a behaviour pattern of an animal. Hot
humid days will have an effect on sheep and cattle. They will
appear more listless. If most of the animals react in the same
manner then it might be of less concern. If only one or two in a
group is affected then it is normally looked at as an alarming
sign.
Hot, humid and rainy days and in small animals very cold days can
also be stressful to farm animals. The following can be
investigated to find out if they have any effect on the abnormal
behaviour:
Did the animal have enough drinking water? Does the animal have
enough shelter? Especially shelter against cold winds and wet
conditions.
What quality and type of feed is the animal eating? Is it a usual
environment where the animal finds itself? Sometimes animals will
refuse to go into familiar environments that mean pain to them,
like handling chutes and pens.
CCaattttllee Especially dairy cattle will bellow if they are
thirsty and sometimes when they are hungry. They will clog together
at the gate or barrier, which leads to the water trough/source.
Sometimes when there is a problem with the water supply to the
trough they will gather around the trough and make noises. Most
tame animals have set habits in feeding and drinking of water. If
this is disturbed in any way the animal will show distress.
TT
AAnniimmaall BBeehhaavviioouurr && AAttttrriibbuutteess
RReeggaarrddiinngg AAbbnnoorrmmaalliittiieess
After completing this session, you will be able to: SO 2: Evaluate
animal behaviour and attributes regarding abnormalities.
Version: 01 Version Date: July 2006
1122 Observe and handle animals
Primary Agriculture NQF Level 1 Unit Standard No: 116197
22..11 NNoorrmmaall BBeehhaavviioouurr tthhaatt MMiigghhtt LLooookk
AAbbnnoorrmmaall
Most of the ordinary farm animals have a sexually active time
during the year. For the learner the behaviour of the animals
during their sexual active period may look as abnormal behaviour.
Such behaviour is triggered by changes of hormones* in the body
during the mating season. That is a natural way of assuring that
the male and female animal gets each other’s attention. After
mating the animal behaviour will return to normal. The mating
behaviour and activities may vary in duration from species to
species and will be discussed in specific context of the species
later.
22..22 RReeppoorrttiinngg ooff AAbbnnoorrmmaall BBeehhaavviioouurr
The list of abnormalities that was discussed earlier is not always
of urgent concern if the learner can evaluate the situation
regarding the seriousness.
However, if a situation occurs that the learner is not familiar
with then the matter must be reported as quickly as possible.
Diseases like milk fever in dairy cattle, colic in horses,
heart-water in cattle, sheep and goats are deadly diseases if not
treated quickly. The following tick-borne diseases are destroying
the red blood cells of the affected animal and the trained eye in
the behaviour of the animal can identify the sick animals. It is of
utmost importance that treatment must be quick other wise the
animal will die or suffer a set back and there will be a production
loss.
TThhee ddiisseeaasseess aarree Heart-water – cattle, sheep and
goats; Red water – cattle; Gall sickness – cattle; Spinochaetosis –
horses, cattle, sheep and goat; and Biliary fever – horses and
dogs.
The above diseases occur in specific areas of South Africa. These
diseases will lead to some behavioural signs that have already been
discussed. They are of economic importance because they might lead
to production loss or death of affected animals. It is thus
important to know the diseases that might occur in the area where
the farm is situated and take proper precautions.
Hormones: Substances in the body that regulates the way the body
functions and develops.
Version: 01 Version Date: July 2006
1133 Observe and handle animals
Primary Agriculture NQF Level 1 Unit Standard No: 116197
Concept (SO 2, AC 1-3)
I understand this concept
Individual animal abnormalities are observed.
Individual animals showing abnormal behaviour are identified.
The ability to report to superior is demonstrated.
MMyy NNootteess …… . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MMyy NNootteess …… . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1144 Observe and handle animals
Primary Agriculture NQF Level 1 Unit Standard No: 116197
SSeessssiioonn 33
hen abnormal behaviour is identified, action must be taken. The
action taken is most of the time action that needs contact with the
animal and even catching or capturing the affected animal. There
are a few points to
be kept in mind.
The animals must most of the time be moved to a place where they
can be contain and caught. Animals like cattle, sheep and goats
although easy to handle when in kraals must be moved to the kraals
or holding pens. Although most of the methods discussed here, are
probably general knowledge it is nevertheless important to discuss
them briefly.
33..11 GGeenneerraall PPrriinncciipplleess iinn HHaannddlliinngg
ooff AAnniimmaallss The approach and all actions should be
conducted in a calm and unruffled manner. Avoid hasty
approaches.
Sounds and noise should be kept to a minimum, especially with
single animals. Animals should always be talked to first, to make
them aware of the presence of the handler. Individual animals in
particular should be addressed in a quiet, even and calming
way.
Any act or movement should be performed slowly and deliberately.
Sudden movements will cause animals to become excited and
restless.
The safety of the operator and his assistants should be the first
consideration. The safety of the animals, causing of injury and
unnecessary pain must be considered.
Always ensure that assistants know exactly what they have to do.
See to it that the best available aids are at hand. Use the most
suitable facilities that are available for the particular purpose
or that can be constructed easily and practically. This is
conducive to effective handling and will also save much time.
It is always desirable, especially in the case of individual
animals, to have them caught and controlled by people to whom they
are accustomed to or who normally handles them.
WW
MMoovvee AAnniimmaallss TToo aanndd IInnttoo aa HHoollddiinngg
FFaacciilliittyy
After completing this session, you should be able to: SO 3: Move
animals to and into a holding facility.
Version: 01 Version Date: July 2006
1155 Observe and handle animals
Primary Agriculture NQF Level 1 Unit Standard No: 116197
33..22 AApppprrooaacchh ttoo AAnniimmaallss The approach to animals
will depend on the following factors:
Kind of animal: For example the approach to horses is entirely
different from that of cattle, sheep or pigs. Likewise the approach
to dogs and cats differs and is altogether different from that of
the other species.
Breed: A Thoroughbred or American Saddler is more highly-strung and
nervous than a Percheron or Boerperd and should be approached more
calmly. Similarly there is a vast difference in temperament between
for example, Afrikaner and Friesland cattle, Merino and Namaqua
Africander sheep, Boer goats and Angora goats, etc.
Sex: Male animals are generally more aggressive than female
animals, for instance a Jersey bull as compared to a Jersey cow, a
ram as compared to an ewe, etc. Male animals are also physically
stronger than female animals.
Age: Older animals are usually calmer than younger animals. On the
other hand older animals may be more aggressive than, e.g. an old
bull or ram. Yong animals should always be handled in the presence
or with the aid of tame ones and preferably their mothers.
Individuals or groups of animals: The approach to a single horse is
different to that of a number of horses or a single cow or sheep to
that of a herd or flock.
Tame or untamed animals: This will immediately determine the
approach to be followed; for instance, a tame horse can easily be
approached and caught, while other methods must be used with an
untamed horse. A tame animal could, however, have acquired certain
habits.
Now complete activity 3.1 in your workbook.
MMyy NNootteess …… . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1166 Observe and handle animals
Primary Agriculture NQF Level 1 Unit Standard No: 116197
Concept (SO 3) (SO 3, AC 1-4)
I understand this concept well
Questions that I still would like to ask
The ability to move animals to a collective point, at gate or other
opening is demonstrated.
The ability to move animals in a controlled manner is
demonstrated.
Animals are prepared for moving where appropriate.
Attending to the needs of the animals before, after and during the
moving is demonstrated.
MMyy NNootteess …… . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1177 Observe and handle animals
Primary Agriculture NQF Level 1 Unit Standard No: 116197
SSeessssiioonn 44
epending on the type of farm animal that must be restrained, the
facilities will differ. It is advisable to select animals that are
tame to work with for training purposes. This will be done with the
assistance of the facilitator and/or a
herdsman.
44..11 FFaacciilliittiieess ffoorr tthhee HHaannddlliinngg ooff
AAnniimmaallss KKrraaaallss Depending on the specie, kraals can
differ a lot from rectangular to wedge-shape or even triangular.
They usually consist of a complex of several smaller and larger
kraals. The fencing varies according to the specific purpose and
may consist of various types of wire or netting, steel cables,
tubing, flat or round iron rods, light rails, wooden poles and
store walls.
A number of kraals are always convenient for the classing of
animals and particularly with regard to small stock. In this
respect a unit consisting of a kraal, fitted with a funnel-shaped
receiving corridor and swing gate or door leading to two smaller
kraals is very useful (see Figure 1).
In the case of cattle and horses, firm kraals with fences made of
wooden poles or Iron pipes are most suitable.
DD
RReessttrraaiinn AAnniimmaallss iinn aa RReessttrraaiinntt
FFaacciilliittyy
After completing this session, you should be able to: SO 4:
Restrain animals in a restraint facility.
Now complete activity 4.1 in your workbook.
MMyy NNootteess …… . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1188 Observe and handle animals
Primary Agriculture NQF Level 1 Unit Standard No: 116197
Figure 1: Kraal
CCrruusshh ppeennss Crush pens used for horses and cattle, are
usually constructed of wooden poles, iron tubing and train rails.
In the case of horses, a special type of crush pen is usually
constructed. They are short and can usually only accommodate one
horse at a time. The sides are reasonably high. The wooden poles or
pipes are usually padded on the inside to prevent the animals from
injuring themselves when bumping and kicking.
Some crush pens for cattle has a neck clamp in front to contain the
animal. The most modern way to prevent injury to cattle, especially
beef cattle, and the handler in the crush pen is equipped with a
neck clamp and then an immobiliser is used while working with the
animal.
RRaammpp aanndd llooaaddiinngg kkrraaaallss When animals are
transported frequently it is useful to have ramps and loading
kraals where they can be loaded and off loaded easily. There are a
variety of practical methods, which include a wooden platform, a
sand heap or wall, an inclined hole in the ground, etc.
Figure 2:
1199 Observe and handle animals
Primary Agriculture NQF Level 1 Unit Standard No: 116197
44..22 GGeenneerraall AAiiddss ffoorr tthhee HHaannddlliinngg ooff
AAnniimmaallss BBrriiddlleess Bridles are used for the control of
horses, donkeys and mules. Riding bridles could be of the single or
double type.
HHaalltteerrss Various kinds of halters are readily available.
These are made of leather, webbing or even ordinary rope.
The most common type of halter consist of a circular nose board and
a neck band or collar which is buckled on the rear side to form a
complete loop around the neck. These two bands are held together by
means of a metal ring, which is situated underneath the throat.
They are also connected by means of a neckpiece on either
side.
A simpler type generally referred to as a cattle halter consists of
a noseband and a poll piece consisting of two parts, which are
attached directly to the noseband on either side. The longer part
is attached to the noseband and the poll and is buckled to the
shorter part on the rear side. Cattle halters are often made of
webbing or rope.
NNoossee rriinnggss To handle large animals like bulls and horses
it is often necessary to restrain them by means of a nose ring that
is permanently fixed in the nose. Horses can be handled with a
twitch. A twitch is used to obtain better control of a horse. It
should however not be twisted too tight or kept on too long. The
twitch is usually released shortly after ± 5 minutes to allow the
blood to circulate.
The person applying the twitch takes position on the left, near the
head and facing the horse.
The twitch is held in the left hand by its loop and by inserting
all but the forefinger through the loop.
The loop therefore lies around the opened fingers but underneath
the forefinger, which prevents it from slipping back over the hand.
The wooden handle thus hangs downwards.
The upper lip is grabbed gently by the fingers of the left hand and
pulled forward while the loop of the twitch is slipped over the lip
with the right hand and wound tight by twisting the wooden handle
with the right hand (or by an assistant).
The upper end of the handle, the knot of the loop, and often
winding, also the twisted point of the loop, are lower than the
upper lip.
Care should be taken to ensure that the knot of the loop always
lies against the handle.
Version: 01 Version Date: July 2006
2200 Observe and handle animals
Primary Agriculture NQF Level 1 Unit Standard No: 116197
44..33 IInnssppeeccttiinngg aa RReessttrraaiinniinngg
FFaacciilliittyy It is important to make sure that an animal does
not get injured in a restraining facility. Inspect the kraal or pen
for sharp objects especially if there is a neck clamp at the end of
the crush pen where the animal’s head is clamped. The animal will
injure it self if there are sharp objects or spaces where the
animal’s legs can get trapped. The immobiliser nowadays replaces
neck clamps.
Concept (SO 4, AC 1-4)
I understand this concept
Questions that I still would like to ask
The method of checking a restraint facility before being used is
demonstrated.
The steps required to restrain a specific animal is
demonstrated.
The ability to restrain groups of animals is demonstrated.
The ability to restrain animals in a controlled manner without
harming or stressing the animal is demonstrated with individual
animals as well as with groups of animals.
Now complete activity 4.2 in your workbook.
MMyy NNootteess …… . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2211 Observe and handle animals
Primary Agriculture NQF Level 1 Unit Standard No: 116197
TTeerrmmss && CCoonnddiittiioonnss This material was
developed with public funding and for that reason this material is
available at no charge from the AgriSETA website
(www.agriseta.co.za).
Users are free to reproduce and adapt this material to the maximum
benefit of the learner.
No user is allowed to sell this material whatsoever.
AAcckknnoowwlleeddggeemmeennttss PPrroojjeecctt
MMaannaaggeemmeenntt::
DDeevveellooppeerrss::
AAuutthheennttiiccaattoorrss::
EExxcceerrpptt:: SSAAQQAA UUnniitt SSttaannddaarrdd:: 111166119977
-- NNQQFF LLeevveell 11
Title: Observe and handle animals
Field: Agriculture and Nature Conservation Sub-field: Primary
Agriculture
US No: 116197 NQF Level: 1 Credits: 5
PPuurrppoossee ooff tthhee UUnniitt SSttaannddaarrdd::
The learner achieving this unit standard will be able to observe
animals regarding their health status and be able to handle them.
In addition they will be well positioned to extend their learning
and practice into other areas of animal production, ensuring
healthy animals and humane treatment. Learners will gain specific
knowledge and skills in animal health and will be able to operate
in an animal production environment implementing sustainable and
economically viable production principles. They will be capacitated
to gain access to the mainstream agricultural sector, in animal
production, impacting directly on the sustainability of the
sub-sector. The improvement in production technology will also have
a direct impact on the improvement of agricultural productivity of
the sector.
LLeeaarrnniinngg AAssssuummeedd ttoo bbee iinn PPllaaccee aanndd
RReeccooggnniittiioonn ooff PPrriioorr LLeeaarrnniinngg::
It is assumed that a learner attempting this unit standard will
show competence against the following unit standards or equivalent:
• NQF 1: Basic external animal anatomy and morphology.
UUnniitt SSttaannddaarrdd RRaannggee:: Whilst range statements have
been defined generically to include as wide a set of alternatives
as possible, all range statements should be interpreted within the
specific context of application. Range statements are neither
comprehensive nor necessarily appropriate to all contexts.
Alternatives must however be comparable in scope and complexity.
These are only as a general guide to scope and complexity of what
is required.
SSppeecciiffiicc OOuuttccoommee ((SSOO)) 11:: Observe, record and
report behaviour and physical attributes. Outcome Range: Animal
behaviour includes but is not limited
to walking, running, feeding, mating, drinking, and sleeping.
Animals include, but are not limited to fish, birds, mammals,
insects, crustaceans, reptiles, molluscs and amphibians as relevant
to the context of application.
Assessment Criteria (AC): 1. The ability to observe and evaluate
animal behaviour is
demonstrated. 2. The ability to observe and evaluate animal
physical attributes
is demonstrated. 3. The ability to record and report on animal
behaviour and
physical attributes is demonstrated. SSppeecciiffiicc
OOuuttccoommee ((SSOO)) 22::
Evaluate animal behaviour and attributes regarding abnormalities.
Outcome Range: Abnormal behaviour includes but is not necessary
limited to lethargy, aggression, lack of appetite or gross signs of
disease and abnormalities. Assessment Criteria (AC): 1. Individual
animal abnormalities are observed. 2. Individual animals showing
abnormal behaviour are identified. 3. The ability to report to
superior is demonstrated.
SSppeecciiffiicc OOuuttccoommee ((SSOO)) 33::
Move animals to and into a holding facility. Outcome Range: Moving
animals includes but is not limited to collection and moving from
holding pens, tanks, houses, etc. as relevant to the context of
application. Outcome Range: Moving animals includes but is not
limited to collection and moving from holding pens, tanks, houses,
etc. as relevant to the context of application.
Assessment Criteria (AC): 1. The ability to move animals to a
collective point, at gate or
other opening is demonstrated. 2. The ability to move animals in a
controlled manner is
demonstrated. 3. Animals are prepared for moving where appropriate.
4. Attending to the needs of the animals before, after and
during
the moving is demonstrated. SSppeecciiffiicc OOuuttccoommee
((SSOO)) 44::
Restrain animals in a restraint facility. Outcome Range: Restraint
facilities are not limited to holding tanks, crushes, hives,
houses, paddocks, etc. as relevant to the context of application.
Assessment Criteria (AC): 1. The method of checking a restraint
facility before being used is
demonstrated. 2. The steps required to restrain a specific animal
is
demonstrated. 3. The ability to restrain groups of animals is
demonstrated. Assessment Criterion Range: Groups of animals include
but
are not limited to schools, troops, herds, swarms, colonies,
gaggles, flocks, etc.
Assessment Criterion (AC): 4. The ability to restrain animals in a
controlled manner without
harming or stressing the animal is demonstrated with individual
animals as well as with groups of animals.
UUnniitt SSttaannddaarrdd EEsssseennttiiaall EEmmbbeeddddeedd
KKnnoowwlleeddggee:: The person is able to demonstrate a basic
knowledge of: • The names and functions of the various animals •
Diseases and abnormalities • Symptoms relating to animal health •
Rules and codes of conduct relating to the movement, handling
and observation of animals. • The ability to handle animals
confidently, safely and humanely • Recording procedure • Simple
report writing skills • Animal retention infrastructure control and
maintenance skills
CCrriittiiccaall CCrroossss--ffiieelldd OOuuttccoommeess
((CCCCFFOO)):: Identifying: Problem solving relates to outcome: •
Observe, record and report behaviour and physical attributes;
Working: Teamwork: relates to outcomes: • Collect and move animals
to a holding facility. • Restrain animals in a holding facility;
Organizing: Self Management relates to outcomes: • Observe, record
and report behaviour and physical attributes. • Evaluate animal
behaviour and attributes regarding abnormalitie • Collect and move
animals to a holding facility; Collecting: Information evaluation:
relates to outcomes: • Observe, record and report behaviour and
physical attributes. • Collect and move animals to a holding
facility; Communicating: Communication relates to outcomes: •
Observe, record and report behaviour and physical attributes. •
Evaluate animal behaviour and attributes regarding abnormalitie •
Collect and move animals to a holding facility; Science: Use
science and technology: relates to outcomes: • Observe, record and
report behaviour and physical attributes. • Evaluate animal
behaviour and attributes regarding
abnormalities; Demonstrating: Inter relatedness of systems: relates
to all outcomes; Contributing: Self-development: relates to all
outcomes.