Conference presentation
Monitoring livestock welfare undergoing sea voyages: When and how to monitor
Australian Veterinary Association National Conference (AVA2023) (Adelaide, SA, 28/05/2023–01/06/2023)
30/05/2023
Abstract
Animal welfare monitoring protocols currently used by the export industry rely on input measures relating to environment and resources and animal morbidity and mortality. Behavioural outcomes are recognised as important indicators of welfare however, it is unknown how many animals should be sampled, and the sampling frequency required. This talk outlines a project employing a suite of measures that recorded welfare conditions of cattle and sheep in the Australian livestock export supply chain. Four cattle and three sheep consignments were assessed at different stages of the journey by a pen side observer. Data indicates assessments should be made from different lines of livestock and from various ship locations that differ in environmental conditions. Multiple daily sampling is required to show cattle activity and rest, and responses to conditions. Decisions about management and livestock suitability can be better informed by taking a whole of supply chain approach to reporting on animal-based outcomes for livestock exported from Australia.
Details
- Title
- Monitoring livestock welfare undergoing sea voyages: When and how to monitor
- Authors/Creators
- Teresa Collins - Murdoch University, Centre for Animal Production and Health
- Conference
- Australian Veterinary Association National Conference (AVA2023) (Adelaide, SA, 28/05/2023–01/06/2023)
- Identifiers
- 991005590270207891
- Murdoch Affiliation
- Centre for Animal Production and Health
- Resource Type
- Conference presentation
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