Livestock Headlock

Often positioned along a feed bunk or in an alleyway, a Livestock Headlock is used to securely hold/restrain an animal (beef, dairy, sheep, goat) so one can safely feed, milk, and/or carry out needed healthcare-related activities, such as vaccinating, medicating, hoof trimming, dehorning, etc. Although manufactured ones (usually of tubular galvanized steel) are available from farm/ranch supply outlets, homemade versions are not difficult to make. Constructed from boards or metal pipes, it consists of a rigid rectangular frame, a pivoting bar, a lock-stop, and a rope that’s pulled to close it once the animal’s head is through the opening.

Cost: Manufactured-$325, Homemade-$50

Impairment Category: Lower extremity, Strength/endurance, Upper extremity