The handler possesses and controls a tool called the Range of Influence. An effective handler will develop this tool through awareness, practice and dedication. Think of it as a circle around yourself and you control how big it gets or how much force radiates outward from the center.
The Range of Influence is the area around the handler
The Three Components of the Range of Influence
- handler's body language
- sorting and moving aids
- noisemaking
1. handler's body language - displayed by the speed with which the handler moves around the cattle, the amount of movement, the type of clothing and the direction the handler chooses to move in.
2. sorting and moving aids - The type of handling aid (sorting paddles, prods, whips) and how the handler uses them are very important.
3. noise making (yelling and whistling) - A handler can use noise to handle cattle. Used properly it can be effective as a tool to group the cattle up and line the animals out. It can then be used to tell cattle when to change speed or direction.
Who Controls the Range of Influence?
The Range of Influence and all it's choices belong to the handler. Handlers can control how far the Range of Influence radiates outward and to what intensity it affects the surrounding cattle by combining elements of the three components (like ripples in a pool of water).
Types of Range of Influence
There are many types of Range of Influence that livestock handlers use every time they work with their animals. They can lead, drive, co-mingle and push the livestock by choosing the type and intensity.
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