Protect Cattle From Rustlers
Raising cattle is part of the rich tradition of the West. Unfortunately, cattle rustling is a growing crime, proving to be a lucrative trade for knowledgeable thieves who need quick cash. Here are some ways to protect your cattle from rustlers.
Instructions
1. Develop a neighborhood watch. An unfamiliar vehicle parked at a neighboring ranch might mean a visiting friend or cattle thieves. A simple phone call to a friend may ward off the rustlers.
2. Screen ranch hands thoroughly. Many cattle rustlers have been ranch hands or farm workers who knew the animals well and could move them out quickly, and had access to equipment for animal handling.
3. Brand your animals. Branding has been a tried and true method to identify animals over the years, and can aid in returning your animals safely home.
4. Look for clues at the site of an animal theft, such as footprints or markings from a car, such as tracks or paint left at the scene.
5. Join a cattle rustling task force in your area, and encourage your neighbors to get involved as well. The more your area is involved in efforts to combat cattle rustling, the more likely that rustlers will stay away.
6. Vary the times that you feed and take care of the animals, so that you'll keep potential thieves guessing at your next step.
