Design for a Portable Reindeer Crush

Abstract

In Alaska, reindeer are managed under both free-ranging and farm conditions. W here reindeer are herded, they are handled twice yearly to harvest velvet antlers and to perform health and record-keeping duties. Under farm conditions, rein deer are handled more frequently to provide routine health care and monitor weight gain. In both types o f management there is a need to efficiently and safely restrain the animal with minimal stress to it. A pneumatic crush for red deer is manufactured in New Zealand and has been used in Alaska for years to restrain reindeer. However, this crush is both expensive and cumbersome to transport. The Reindeer Research Program at the University of Alaska Fairbanks designed a lightweight, portable reindeer crush that can be built locally. This crush can be manufactured with materials that are readily available and assembled with minimal welding and construction skills. The materials can be purchased in most areas for less than $500. The design is offered as a prototype for the builder and should be personalized and improved upon to meet the needs of each handling facility. If the crush is to be stationary, heavier materials can be incorporated into its construction and additional bracing can be added at stress points. Also, smaller or larger versions can be built to specialize in restraining calves or bulls.