Description should include the design and uses of facilities and equipment for the humane treatment of livestock, as well as the role of facilities and equipment in aiding production. Description may include

• farrowing, nursery, growing, and finishing facilities
• fencing needs and regulations
• handling equipment
• gestation crates
• chutes and headgates
• tilting table
• dipping vat
• cattle guard
• feedlots
• feed storage and processing
• feed bunks
• corrals
• confinement barns and houses (warm and cold)
• bedding material
• trailers
• milking equipment
• feeding equipment
• docking and castration equipment
• tack.

Teacher Resource: Description of lawful fence, Code of Virginia

Process/Skill Questions:

• How have livestock facilities and equipment evolved?
• What issues have been raised concerning the humane conditions of livestock facilities and equipment?
• What are the best chutes and headgates for different livestock?
• What is the importance of castrating livestock?
• What basic maintenance is necessary for facilities and equipment?
• What bedding material is most suitable for horses? For cattle? For sheep? What health issues can be caused by the wrong bedding material?