BEFORE YOU START

Working with cattle

Three checks. A clear reason to stop. A plan to share.

Hauling cattle Moving round bales Working with cattle Checking water Out in the pasture Tractor work

Longhorn cow and calf standing in a Texas pasture

BEFORE YOU START

Working with cattle

Three checks to talk through0 of 3 checked

The trained handler has checked gates, latches, and footing.The handler has a clear way out. Cattle have room and a clear path.Children and visitors are outside the working pen, behind a sturdy fence with an adult.

Stop and check

Stop if an animal is upset or the way out is blocked. Ask the trained handler for help.

Tell your family: never stand between an animal and a gate or wall.

Read the guide Try the lesson

Download field card

These are reminders, not a full job plan. Checked boxes do not prove a job is safe.

Sources for this check

Beef Quality Assurance: 2025 field guide, gate safety (page 64)
Farm Safety Association: animal handling (2002; hosted by Texas A&M AgriLife)
Penn State Extension: working safely around farm animals
National Children’s Center: farm and ranch child safety checklist