Kate Debord of RG Prime Meats, a slaughterhouse in Bledsoe County, Tennessee, has been processing the hogs of Sequatchie Valley farmers for about 15 years and shares her tips and best practices with anyone interested in learning more.
Before You Begin
Debord recommends familiarizing yourself with the slaughtering process by first viewing YouTube videos and, if the opportunity presents itself, even watching the slaughtering process in person. And, as the process can be time-consuming, she says that it should only be started on a day when you have plenty of time.
Opinions on the necessity of withholding feed, done to lessen the chances of contaminating the carcass with feces and to make gutting easier, before slaughtering vary. Debord doesn’t see this as necessary. Water can and should be offered regardless of your choice.
As you prepare for the day, you’ll need to make sure you have the following equipment ready and available.
• firearm. Debord recommends a .22 rifle.
• multiple sharp boning, skinning and fillet knives plus a knife sharpener. For safety’s sake, always try to work with your knife blade facing away from you.
• cleaver for the skull
• gut hook
• bell scraper
• reciprocating saw or hand saw or both
Esta historia es de la edición September - October 2023 de Hobby Farms.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 8500 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor ? Conectar
Esta historia es de la edición September - October 2023 de Hobby Farms.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 8500 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor? Conectar
Meet Holly Callahan-Kasmala & Chrisie DiCarlo
In Maryland, best friends of 40-plus years share a passion for good food, laughter and, most of all, poultry.
HISTORIC Hogs
The Hereford breed has a bright future.
ON TRACK
Animal activity trackers, also known as pet location trackers, let you keep an eye on your pets or livestock from your phone or computer.
ELECTRIC BORDERS
Here's what you need to know before you buy a portable electric fence.
beyond TRADITION
Raise these alternative animals on your hobby farm.
Sheep HOOF CARE
The key to good sheep hoof care is keeping an eye out for problems and moving to prevent serious issues.
Santa Carota BEEF
For 35 years, the Pettit family has been upcycling waste carrots for cattle feed, challenging traditional ranching practices while producing exquisite beef.
Metabolic Disorders in Cattle
Manage these body conditions in your herd with diagnosis, treatment and prevention.
Midsummer Garden
Keep those vegetables growing late into the year with these planting options and advice.
Microclimate Trouble Spots
Spend enough time gardening in one place and you can get to know it well.