Ropes, Knots, and Hitches
C. B. Chastain, Lynn Vellios · 2017
Ropes are essential tools for working safely with animals, particularly livestock and horses. They can save a handler&s;s life or endanger it depending on the skill exercised in using them. Among natural fibers, manila and hemp are the strongest plant fibers for ropes. The advantages of natural fiber ropes are a hairy-like rough surface that provides better traction and easier grip. Synthetic fiber ropes are constructed in a variety of patterns. Braided synthetic rope is soft, strong, and flexible with various uses, including mountain climbing. Plaited and braided ropes do not hold knots and hitches as well as twisted rope. The Shoof Vet-Rope is a marine-grade polyester, oval-shaped rope that is woven with a hollow center, which causes it to flatten with tension. Animal-handling ropes cannot be sanitized, but with basic cleanliness, the same rope may be used on many healthy appearing animals with little risk of transmitting disease.