CHEYENNE, WYO – The National Cattlemen's Beef Association has invited Wyoming rancher Juan Reyes to demonstrate efficient, low stress cattle handling with his trained cattledogs at its trade show being held in San Antonio, Texas.
The trade show is a part of NCBA's Cattle Industry Convention, the oldest and largest convention for the cattle business. Reyes' cattledog demonstration is one of this year's sessions on ways to increase cattle performance by reducing handling stress and how cattlemen can shape consumers' perception of beef. Reyes will show the techniques he uses in the day-to-day operation of his ranch in the demonstration area of the trade show on Feb. 4.
“A well-trained dog saves on manpower and causes the least amount of stress on the cattle,” explained Reyes, who helped start the National Cattledog Association, a growing nonprofit dedicated to encouraging efficient, low stress and humane cattle handling by demonstrating the value of well-trained cattledogs.
Reyes uses trained Border Collies on his M.R. Angus Ranch, located near Wheatland, Wyo., as well as in successfully competing in national trials. His dogs work all types of cattle, including pairs, yearlings and bulls, on the range and in confined spaces.
Cattledog demonstrations like the one being given by Reyes have a positive impact beyond just educating ranchers on better techniques, pointed out Ann Wittmann, executive director for the Wyoming Beef Council.
“Having a national spotlight on a Wyoming rancher for his efforts on low stress cattle handling helps promote the positive image of animal stewardship and improve the image of the beef industry in the mind of the consumer,” Wittmann said.
Source: Wyoming Beef Council
