Livestock producers are reminded they are responsible for the welfare of the animals they consign for transport.
A poor animal welfare outcome as a result of an animal being unfit for the intended journey could trigger an investigation into a possible offence under the Animal Welfare Act 2002.
Department of Agriculture and Food senior compliance inspector Charlotte McIntyre said livestock welfare was a priority.
“Producers are the first stage in the chain of responsibility for livestock throughout the transport process and can impact animal welfare outcomes when selecting animals for transport,” Ms McIntyre said.
“To meet animal welfare obligations, producers should not load livestock with pre-existing, painful conditions, livestock which can’t bear weight on all legs or stressed livestock.
“The inclusion of livestock which are unfit for transport in a load puts pressure on people further along the chain of responsibility, such as the transporter and the receiver, saleyards and abattoirs, who must deal with the animal’s suffering.
“Our message is simple: only load animals likely to be fit for the journey.”
Ms McIntyre said livestock producers should adhere to the Fit to Load guidelines for selecting stock for transport, published on the Meat and Livestock Authority (MLA) website mla.com.au
“Livestock correctly prepared for transport should have adequate rest periods after mustering and before loading, and the curfew off feed and water should be carefully considered for the status of the animal and the intended journey,” she said.
Additional information about compliance with the Animal Welfare Act 2002 related to the transport of livestock is available on the department website agric.wa.gov.au
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