Welfare legislation

Question 1

What were the two legislations introduced in 2006?

Answer 1

• Animal welfare act

- Welfare of animal transport order

Question 2

What are the 3 exclusions to the Animal welfare act?

Answer 2

Animals under scientific procedures
Shooting
Fishing

Question 3

What are the rules surrounding tail docking in dogs?

Answer 3

• Not allowed for cosmetic reasons
• Allowed as medical treatment
• Only allowed for certified working dogs

Question 4

What powers do enforcement have?

Answer 4

• Seizure of animals involved in fighting
• Entry and search under warrant
• Inspection in connection with licences
• Inspection of farm premises
• Prosecution

Question 5

What are the possible post-conviction powers?

Answer 5

• Imprisonment or fine
• Deprivation orders
• Disqualification orders
• Seizure orders

Question 6

What are the rules for calves castration?

Answer 6

• Calves over 2 months require anaesthetic
  – Rubber rings first week of life only
  – Calves over 2 months must be castrated by vet

Question 7

What welfare issues surround transportation of animals?

Answer 7

• Handling/Loading
• Injury:-other animals, vehicles
• Fighting/Mixing/social disruption
• Food and water withdrawal
• Acceleration, motion, vibration
• Fatigue
• Noise
• Confinement
• Thermal challenges

Question 8

What are the economic losses associated with transport of animals?

Answer 8

• Spread of disease
• Decreases carcass/meat quality caused by stress, weight loss and injury
• Mortality

Question 9

How long before birth are animals not fit to travel?

Answer 9

Not in last 10% of gestation period

Question 10

Calved under 14 days cannot be transported for more than how many hours?

Answer 10

8

Question 11

What are some physical responses that may show the welfare state of an animal?

Answer 11

• Flight or fight response (ANS): heart rate, RR, blood pressure
• Stress response (HPA axis)
• Organ pathology

Question 12

What are some abnormal behaviours an animal may show?

Answer 12

• Reduced activity
• Panting, sweating
• Shivering
• Fear/aggression
• Depression
• Stereotypies

Question 13

What resources can affect an animals welfare?

Answer 13

• Feed and Water: availability, quantity and quality
• Housing size, ventilation, suitability
• Medicines, veterinary care

Question 14

Compare the positives and negatives of castrating cattle

Answer 14

Positives:
- Reduced risk of injury from aggression
- Mis-mating of heifers
- Management/safety
- Money for vet
Negatives:
- pain, suffering, risk of complications, death
- cost, time
- injury