STUNNING OF ANIMALS ON THE FARM

Recent changes in the Inspection Regulations have made it possible for practising veterinarians to stun and bleed animals on the farm. The H ealth and Welfare Law stipulates, amongst other things, that it is not permissible to put the welfare of the animal to disadvantage. Mechani cal methods are the most suitable for use on farms, and of these metho ds the humane (cattle) killer is clearly to be preferred. The humane k iller should be placed frontally where the imaginary lines between the eyes and ears cross, or occipitally above the brain. A firearms licen se is needed. As many practising veterinarians are not experienced in the stunning and bleeding of animals, it is advised that these actions be left to emergency slaughtermen.