Tips for Using Your ATV For Herding
For those who want to be ranchers or farmers with large livestock, there will come a time when you’ll need to move those big beasties around. When it comes to herding, sheep and goats might be easily handled with one or two well-trained dogs. Cattle, on the other hand, are a different matter. A horse (or horses, depending on the size of your herd) is extremely useful for that sort of thing. However, if you don’t have a horse or you’re not highly proficient at riding, another option is to use your ATV or UTV to get the job done.
ATV Trader took a look at some of the things you should know about herding with your ATV so you can get the job done efficiently and effectively. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when out with your livestock.
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Noise
One thing about farm animals is they don’t like loud noises. If you’ve been thinking about modifying your exhaust system to make your ATV “sportier” sounding, don’t—especially if you intend to also use it for herding. Even with your factory exhaust, the machine is still going to be noisier than a horse. The trick is to get your livestock used to the sound by driving by them, preferably outside the fence line, at low speeds. When you are ready to start herding, the animals will be easier to control if they are familiar with the sound of your ATV and don’t get spooked in the process.
Hazards
One advantage a horse has over an ATV is that the horse is actually looking where it’s going, even while you’re coaxing it in one direction or another. If you’re primarily watching your livestock while herding with your ATV, you may not be paying full attention to what’s in front of you. With that in mind, it’s a good idea to get to know the lay of your land like the back of your hand before leading your big animals anywhere. Memorize where potential hazards are—such as fallen trees, large rocks, natural trenches in the ground, holes, old fencing, etc.—and try to avoid them when moving your herd.
Speed
Slow and steady is the name of the game when herding, no matter what you’re riding to do the job. Your ATV is built for speed and rugged terrain, but it’s best to avoid hyper-accelerating unless absolutely necessary (for example, if an animal is in danger). Not only will revving the engine potentially spook your animals, but it could also be dangerous for you if you need to make a sudden turn or hit rough terrain at an excessive speed.
Gear
Speaking of dangerous possibilities, it’s always good to wear your safety gear when herding on your ATV. At the very minimum, wear a Department of Transportation (DOT)-approved helmet in case you do happen to roll over or get thrown from your vehicle. Safety boots, gloves, and goggles are also a good idea. Treat herding just like you would a trail ride and keep yourself protected from the unexpected.
Speaking of gear, your ATV is a good way to carry extra supplies or loads on trailers that you might need before or after moving your herd. Just be sure you know the payload and/or towing weights your rig can handle and avoid overloading it.
ATVs on a farm are a tremendous asset, whether you’re using them for herding, hauling, field inspections, or just fun (when the work is done, of course). Even if you have horses and are an excellent rider, ATVs can take some of the burden off of them by performing so many different tasks.
Find your next new or used sort ATVs for sale online.
When you’re ready to get your ATV or UTV in gear, ATV Trader is the largest online source of new and used quads and side-by-sides to assist you with whatever you need a machine to do. If you have an older model vehicle you’d like to sell to move up to something new, think of us as your one-stop shop.
Stay safe, and good luck out there, cowboy!
Barrett Baker
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