In 2015, I started my calf shelter design which includes a walk-thru door, swinging gate, lifting bar, air vents, and sky lights. When I was designing this shelter, there didn’t appear to be another shelter on the market that had these elements. In early 2017, I started advertising my new design and sold my first production shelter in February 2017. I spent time researching design options, even contacting several veterinarians and a local collegiate animal science department to discuss the difference in front entry vs. end entry for calves. Based on my research my current design, which is patented, includes:

• A front entry design that allows airflow to distribute more evenly inside the shelter, which keeps a more even temperature throughout.
• A walk-thru door provides easy access to check or treat calves, and spread straw.
• The swinging gate will close for catching calves, or keeping them out come spring.
• The lifting bar makes it easy to pick up and relocate with a bucket from either side.
• The shelter is ventilated to allow air flow which helps keep it dry, helping to prevent bacteria from growing.
• Skylights help light up the shelter to keep it warm and dry.

These shelters are being delivered to South Dakota’s neighboring states. To legally transport them, I’ve designed them 8’6″ wide and in 12’, 24’, or 32’ lengths, all which will fit on a gooseneck or semi-trailer. Shelters are 8’2″ tall to the top of the lifting bar and have a 31.5″ tall opening for calves to get in. I have also designed custom sized shelters based on the customer’s needs, including some for goat and pig operations, and another as a chicken coop.

• 12′ Shelter – 4′ flip up gate and weighs about 1100 lbs.
• 24′ Shelter – 8′ flip up gate and weighs about 1900 lbs.
• 32′ Shelter – 8′ flip up gate and weighs about 2300 lbs.