Abstract: A method of extending the hind legs of a slain animal for the purpose of mechanical shackling comprising the steps of applying an electric voltage to the bare skin near the anus of the animal and using the bare skin between the hind legs as ground. Involuntary motion is also suppressed thereby.

Abstract: A set of two parallel rails is used to hold animals being slaughtered. The animal's four legs straddle the two rails and the body rests on the rails. A back retraining device is provided to hold the rump and back securely on the rails. A device is also provided for restraining and stretching the neck upward so that ritual slaughter can be performed.

Abstract: This is an improvement of the neck stretching and body restraining frame disclosed in Giger, Westervelt patent application Ser. No. 618,463, filed concurrently herewith. The jaw holder is eliminated and a shoulder brace is provided under the neck restraining extension. The shoulder brace is constructed of two triangular pieces with ends connected to the inner and outer bars of the body frame and suitably constructed to firmly hold the animal to be slaughtered.

Abstract: In transferring an animal in the standing position from a chute to a conveyor, such as a double rail arrangement, a triangular wedge movable horizontally is positioned between the chute and the conveyor with a slippery inclined ramp directly under the wedge and with the conveyor positioned below the wedge, whereby the animal attempting to step on the wedge will step on the ramp and when pushed by animals behind it, will step and slide onto the conveyor with its legs upright and straddling the conveyor. A cover is located at rump dimension above the wedge edge so as to prevent the animal from stepping on the wedge and getting off the conveyor while stepping onto the conveyor from the chute.