When it comes to raising, training and showing livestock it is crucial that the handler is comfortable around animals and has the patience to work with their cattle to help them become comfortable as well.
Steve Jones, associate professor and 4-H livestock extension specialist for the University of Arkansas, provides tips for 4-H’ers that show or plan to show cattle.
“Success in beef cattle showmanship must start at home with halter breaking the calf,” Jones said. “As soon as you purchase an animal or two weeks after weaning, it is important that your animal begins to build trust with you as you begin the halter breaking process. This is safer and less stressful for you and your calf and will ensure that your animal is ready for the show.”
Jones added that spending time with the animal to get the calf use to you is crucial. “A good way to do this is during feeding,” he said. “Just sit or stand in the pen while your animal eats. Remember that this process takes patience and time.”
When it comes to breaking your calf to lead, the earlier the better. “As soon as the calf starts to lead, begin daily exercise and practice proper show-ring procedures,” Jones said. “Daily exercise is important for the condition of the animal and its response to you, the handler.”
As 4-H’ers start training their animal to lead, they should use a show stick to start training the calf to stand correctly.
“After much training and practice, the calf will soon understand what is expected and will begin to set up itself.”
When it comes to clipping heifers and steers before shows, Jones reminded Ozarks Farm & Neighbor that no two animals are exactly alike, therefore no two animals should be fitted alike. New 4-H’ers should work with area livestock project leaders to learn the best methods for grooming their calves until they are comfortable doing it on their own.
“The purpose of fitting and grooming beef animals is to make them look attractive,” Jones said. “Study your animal and evaluate its strong and weak points as compared to the ideal animal that you have formed a mental picture of. Plan how to groom the animal by making the weak points look as good as possible and accentuating the strong points.”
Fitting supplies include brushes, combs, a blow dryer, clippers, scissors and show halters. Grooming supplies include soaps, adhesives, coat enhancing products and other items.
To conclude, Jones added that the purpose of showmanship is to present an animal in a manner that will exhibit the most favorable project.
“Your success in the show ring begins at home,” he said. “Good showmanship is not difficult, but it does take a lot of work. Showing beef steers and heifers properly is an important part of your beef project and an extremely rewarding experience. Beef cattle showmanship not only generates enthusiasm and competition within the show ring, but also teaches other valuable lesson that can be applied to everyday life. These lessons include accepting responsibility, winning graciously, losing with dignity, and learning the amount of work and determination it takes to become a winner.
