How Low-Stress Practices Help Prevent BRD—and How the Right Equipment Makes It Easier

Every producer wants a healthier herd—and few diseases impact performance more than bovine respiratory disease (BRD). But while we often focus on vaccines and treatment protocols, one of the most effective defenses against BRD starts long before you call the vet: low-stress cattle handling.

And the right equipment—like the Conquistador Portable Corral—can make that easier, safer, and more consistent. Whether you’re working cattle on rented ground, managing multiple pastures, or handling calves in the fall, better handling tools lead to better health, better performance, and better outcomes.

Why BRD Starts at the Gate

Stress is a known trigger for BRD. From long transport to poor pen design, anything that elevates stress hormones can compromise immune function—even in vaccinated cattle. According to Merck Animal Health:

“Good animal husbandry practices with a focus on minimizing or destressing cattle, coupled with a comprehensive vaccination program, is the first line of BRD defense.”
– Dr. Dave Sjeklocha, Merck Animal Health

That means the way we move cattle—the pace, pressure, and tools we use—matters just as much as what we vaccinate against.

Work Cattle More Often—and More Gently

BRD prevention isn’t just about a one-time protocol. It’s about timing, environment, and operator experience. Many veterinarians and consultants agree: cattle should be handled more often and earlier to improve outcomes. But on a busy operation, frequent handling can feel like a logistical nightmare.

That’s where equipment like the Conquistador Portable Corral changes the game. When you can tow your corral where it’s needed, set it up quickly, and work cattle with minimal crew, you’re more likely to handle cattle at the right time—not just when the setup is worth the effort.

The Conquistador Makes Better Cattle Care Possible

Designed with safety and efficiency in mind, the Conquistador gives producers the flexibility to handle cattle more often and with less stress on both livestock and handlers.

• Portable & Quick to Set Up – Easily towed behind a pickup and ready in minutes
• Stress-Reducing Design – Thoughtful flow patterns minimize balking and encourage calm movement
• Adaptable to Any Operation – Great for pastures, rented ground, and operations without permanent infrastructure

Whether you’re processing calves, preconditioning before shipping, or just moving cattle between paddocks, The Conquistador helps you do it better, faster, and more calmly.

Click here to learn more about the Conquistador. 

Want to Win One? Here’s Your Chance

We’ve partnered with Merck Animal Health for the Tip the Scales Sweepstakes, giving one lucky producer the chance to win a Conquistador Portable Corral—for free.

Now through July 14, 2025, you can enter by participating in educational quizzes about cattle health and management. Each quiz you complete counts as an additional entry—boosting your chances of taking home the ultimate tool for safe, effective handling.

• Click here to enter the Tip the Scales Sweepstakes 

Cattle Health Begins with Cattle Handling

Low-stress handling isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a science-backed strategy to prevent illness, reduce shrink, and improve carcass quality. And the more flexible your setup, the more likely you are to apply it consistently.

With a system like The Conquistador, you can work cattle when they need it—not just when the logistics make sense. And that leads to better outcomes for animals, operators, and your bottom line.

• Want to hear more? Check out our latest Groundbreakers podcast episode featuring Dr. Dave Sjeklocha, DVM and Director of Animal Welfare at Merck Animal Health.
  

Enter Today. Handle Smarter. Perform Better.

Enter the Tip the Scales Sweepstakes

Because the right tools don’t just make work easier—they help you raise healthier cattle.