How-to Fit Neckbands to Animals

In this three-part video series, you’ll learn how to:

1. Prepare neckbands for fitting on animals
2. Fit the neckbands correctly around each animal’s neck
3. Adjust the chain length and insert the locking clips

Fitting neckbands for the first time can be challenging. Take your time, consider the temperament and disposition of your animals. If some animals become agitated or distressed, it’s best to release them back into the holding area and start with calmer animals. This approach allows you to build your skills and confidence gradually.

Neckband Preparation

1. Identify parts of the unit

• LED light on one side.
• “Animal head” icon indicating which direction faces forward.
• Brisket pad sits against the animal’s chest.
• Audio component also located on the brisket section.
• Chains attach on each side.

2. Ensure the unit is fully set up before going to the animal

• Make sure chains are already hooked into place.
• Confirm all parts are connected and ready.

3. Pre-adjust the top strap before fitting

• Connect the top strap on the side you will work from.
• As seen in the 'How-to' video, they work from the left-hand side of the crush.
• When placed on the animal, you want to easily reach around and clip the strap from that working side.

4. Do NOT lock the adjustment clips yet

• Adjustment clips should only be locked after you’ve correctly adjusted the strap length.
• Leave them open until the unit is on the animal.

5. Pre-size the unit for efficiency

• Adjust the neckband length ahead of time on a few animals to find the correct general size.
• Example given: the shown length is suitable for ~250 kg (500 lb) animals.
• Pre-adjusting reduces time and danger when handling animals in the crush.

6. Safety focus

• There are pinch points and potential hazards while fitting the unit.
• The goal is to make the process quick, simple, and safe by preparing and adjusting beforehand.

For a full visual walkthrough, please refer to the video demonstration.

Neckband Fitment

Confirm the band is clipped correctly:

• After placing the neckband around the animal’s neck, ensure the main buckle locks securely into place.

Check hand clearance:

• You should comfortably fit your hand between the band and the animal’s neck.
• Even on animals with a large dewlap, a slight bunching is normal as long as your hand fits easily.

Lift-check for extra space:

• Lift the neckband upward - there should be a clear gap large enough to fit a closed fist underneath without forcing it.

Use the centreline on the top strap:

• The top strap has a centre alignment mark.
• Lay the strap over the neck and check that the chain length appears roughly even on each side.
• Perfect symmetry isn’t essential, but evenness is best practice.

Be cautious of pinch points:

• When checking the fit or clipping the strap, be aware that the animal may pull its head back, which can trap your fingers.

Install the locking pins:

• The clips have locking pins that prevent the buckle from coming undone in the paddock.
• Insert the pin in the only direction it fits until it clicks securely.

Practice removing the locking pin:

• To remove it, slide your hand underneath and push on the base of the pin - practice this a few times to get used to the motion.

Once the clearance, strap alignment, and locking pin are all correct, the neckband is fully fitted and ready for use.

For a full visual walkthrough, please refer to the video demonstration.

Neck Chain Adjustment

Fit the neckband from the left side of the crush, ensuring you have clear access to place the unit over the animal.

Position the band correctly:

• The LED and cow-head icon should be facing forward, and the audio/brisket section should sit against the chest before tightening.

Check the initial fit:

• If the top strap has too much loose movement, reduce the slack by adjusting the chain length on the side opposite you (offside).

Adjust chain links carefully:

• Shorten the strap by a few links at a time, then bring the band over the animal’s neck to check whether the length is suitable.

Use the centreline of the neck as a guide:

• When the band is sitting across the top of the neck, check whether one side hangs lower.
• If so, shorten that side by one link to even it out.

Evaluate overall tension:

• The band should appear secure without restricting the animal’s breathing or movement.
• On animals with a large dewlap, the band may look tighter even when fitted correctly.

Secure the locking clips:

• Once the length is correct, push in the locking clips on each side until they click firmly into place.
• This prevents the buckles from undoing while the animal is in the paddock.

When the strap is even and the clips are locked, the unit is fully fitted and ready for use.

For a full visual walkthrough, please refer to the video demonstration.

Updated on: 18/11/2025