April/May 2025 NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN 47 of age. Therefore, feedlots using a rifle to perform euthanasia should be, at minimum, using a .22 magnum. Shotguns with buckshot or #4 shot at a distance of 3 yards, or a slug for greater distances, are acceptable. Additionally, it is preferred that a 20, 16 or 12 gauge is used. When choosing the projectile style, hollow point bullets will cause more damage compared to a solid point, but because hollow points are designed to expand and fragment on impact, there may be a reduction in depth of penetration, which is undesirable. Finally, once a euthanasia method has been carried out, one must be able to recognize the indications of unconsciousness. This includes the following: • Absence of corneal reflex • Absence of vocalization • Absence of gag reflex (no voluntary tongue movements or swallowing) • Lack of rhythmic respiration • No coordinated attempt to rise or right itself After euthanasia is performed, indications of unconsciousness of the animal should be observed for at least 10 minutes to ensure euthanasia was successful. If you have any questions related to this article, please contact Nebraska BQA at nebraskabqa@unl.edu or (308) 6330158. ~NC~ Briggs Cattle Co_1-4, BW_NC0822.indd 1 Free Standing Panels 10' Plate Bunks Feeders Heavy Duty Gates American Made by American Ranchers Crowding Tubs Adjustable Alleyways 26' Guard Rail Bottomless Bunk Pipe, Steel, & Corral Materials New Pipe Used Pipe Sucker Rod Pre-Cut Posts Continuous Fence 20' Pipe Bunks home of Cattle Handling Accessories Loading Chutes Visit Our WEBSITE for more Information! For All Your Livestock Handling Needs! Squeeze Chutes & Accessories Manual or Hydraulic Hay Savers
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