Large Ruminant Patient Handling

Subject to modification by the VTH Biosecurity Subcommittee of the CVM Occupational Health and Safety Committee without approval.

Policy

Proper patient handling is required for the safety of the cattle as well as the handler and bystanders.

Guidelines

1. Do not enter a pen with an animal of unknown temperament.
2. Bovine patients must be restrained for examination and treatment.

Procedure (if applicable)

I. Basic Restraint

1. The cattle must be restrained in a manner commensurate with temperament
2. Placing body parts inside a chute should be done with extreme caution and as infrequently as practical.
3. Quick release knots must always be used.

II.  Physical Exams

1. The cattle must be restrained in a manner commensurate to temperament that allows safe examination.
2. If a staff person or student at any time feels the animal is fractious or feels unsure, they shall stop the exam and contact a house officer or faculty.
3. At no time is it permissible to kneel or sit on the floor while an animal is being examined.

III.  Procedures

1. Restraint of cattle for procedures should be overseen by experienced personnel.
2. When unsafe conditions are observed, House Officers and Faculty are expected to stop the procedure and instruct the personnel involved on how to perform the task safely.

Sedation

1. 1. Sufficient sedation to perform the procedure safely should always be employed. 
   2. Cattle are not to be moved until the sedation has worn off. 

Definitions (if applicable)

Restraint : Restraint may include; chemical, physical – halter, head catch, rope, gate, nose lead

Veterinary Teaching Hospital (VTH): The collective clinical services of the Large Animal Clinic, Midwest Equine, the Small Animal Clinic, and the Veterinary Medicine South Clinic.