Live sheep exports

Authors: Orr MB
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume 34, Issue 1-2, pp 18, Jan 1986
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: Livestock, Production animal, Ruminant, Sheep
Subject Terms: Animal welfare, Biosecurity, Import/export/trade, Slaughter, Transport
Article class: Correspondence

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Abstract: The export of live sheep for slaughter raises several important animal welfare issues. Concern for the welfare of sheep during transit has apparently resulted in a marked improvement in shipping conditions and animal welfare. However the welfare of sheep from the time of their arrival in the importing country to slaughter has received little attention. In some of the countries which are potential buyers of live New Zealand sheep e.g. Middle East and Mexico, the standard of animal care is generally lower than it is in New Zealand and their main methods of slaughter are considered inhumane by New Zealand standards (hence the requirements for stunning sheep before Halal killing in New Zealand abbatoirs). I appreciate that the Government is under great pressure to allow farmers this further source of income, but if the cost in terms of animal suffering is too high then it is not justified…

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