Have you ever wondered how farmers know which of their fellow livestock breeders have suitable stock for breeding or finishing? Perhaps you’ve wondered how abattoirs keep up such a steady flow of livestock for processing, or how farmers decide which stock should go into agricultural auctions.
Members Of The Community
In short many of the agricultural partnerships and deals we take for granted are actually created and maintained by livestock dealers or procurers. These multi-talented individuals keep the animal husbandry and meat industries moving by providing up to date valuations and guidance on government legislation and regulations, and by running sales and auctions of livestock.
If you’re considering organizing a sale or deal for your own livestock, it is highly advisable to employ the services of a qualified livestock dealer. Far from being an additional expense, they should save you time and effort and potentially obtain a better sale or purchase price. Though most will have a particular area of expertise in one species or another, most will have a sound working knowledge of cattle (whether being reared for dairy production or for slaughter), sheep, pigs, poultry and horses.
With the increasing interest by the consumer in organic and free-range food, many livestock dealers are now developing expertise in this area, and will be able to advise on the local and national markets for such goods. It is certain that they will have developed a relationship with both producers and purchasers, and so will be a good source of knowledge for both large and small scale producers wishing to commence organic or free range husbandry.