Cull cows can travel long distances to slaughter and may face a number of welfare challenges during the journey. These stressors are made worse if the cows are compromised and not fit for transport.

While all major industry stakeholders have recommendations or guidelines about fitness for transport, none are enforced. There is little financial motivation for farmers to stop shipping compromised dairy cows, and, in some cases, slaughter plants are willing to take the risk on purchasing cows in this condition as those that survive the journey often make money. The data from slaughter plants shows the decision to ship compromised cull cows is too common. Compromised culled dairy cattle continue to arrive at slaughter plants and leadership within the industry is needed to tackle this welfare challenge.

Here are resources, designed for dairy farms, the principles are universal and can be applied to any species.

Download the Fitness For Transport SOP

Download the Proactive Culling Timely Euthanasia Decision Tree

Every farm should work with their veterinarian of record to develop, train and manage to a standard procedure for culling and euthanasia that ensures, only animals fit for transport leave the farm, and every animal is provided a timely and humane end.