A method is provided for locking a chain in a locking device. The method includes sliding a chain along a surface of a chain-locking device until contacting another surface of the chain-locking device. Subsequently, the chain is slid along the contacted surface until reaching the end of the contacted surface. At the end, or in close proximity thereto, the chain passes, or falls, or is slid into a slot of the chain-locking device to lock the chain in place. A method is also provided for coupling together a pair of portable-corral members. A portable-corral panel is provided as having a panel support structure, and a portable-corral door connected to and within the panel support structure such as to be generally flush with the panel support structure when in a closed posture. A method is provided for directing the movement of livestock with a collapsible portable-corral by opening a portable-corral gate which is pivotally secured to and within a portable-corral support structure, and moving livestock through the opened portable-corral gate. Also provided is a portable-corral gate assembly comprising a portable-corral gate support structure, and a portable-corral gate coupled to the portable-corral gate support structure.