Animal Welfare

Standard Operating Procedures - sheep
Euthanasia

Ref Code: SHE08

Objective

To kill a sheep humanely.

Alternatives to animal use for teaching

Study of sheep anatomy using dead animals, video presentation.

Details of procedure

Refer to the Model Code of Practice for the Welfare of Animals: The Sheep.

Safety to humans and humane slaughter are the overriding considerations. Suitable precautions must be taken if the sheep are affected by a zoonotic disease.

Effective stunning followed quickly by bleeding, is the most humane method for on-farm slaughter of sheep. Either a captive bolt pistol or a .22 rifle can be used for stunning, however it should be noted that the use of a .22 rifle is dangerous in confined areas.

Captive bolt pistols are safe for the operator but are heavy to handle. The bolt may require regular cleaning to prevent jamming, especially if wool is long. The captive bolt pistol must be held firmly in contact with the head. After the animal is dropped, it should be bled by cutting the throat.
Rifles - self-reloading .22 rifles are often used. Low power hollow point bullets are recommended. Operator safety must be foremost in mind at all times and all persons other than the person using the rifle should be well clear of the killing pens. The rifle is not held in contact with the head.

There are two sites for aiming - the back of the head or the front. The back is the preferred site as head movement is minimal. To bleed sheep after stunning, sever blood vessels in the neck, level with the occipital vertebra.

When working in a race configuration, start from the rear and work towards the front.
Bleeding out using a sharp knife is an acceptable method on-farm method of euthanasia for individual animals. The spinal cord should not be severed. Students should pre-stun sheep before bleeding out.
Barbiturates may be used by veterinarians for humane slaughter.

Drugs, chemicals or biological agents

No substances are needed unless a veterinarian is using a barbiturate.

Impact of procedure on wellbeing of animal(s)

Dependent neonates of animals being killed must also be killed or provision made for their care.

Reuse and repeated use

Not applicable

Care of animals during/after procedure

Animals should be killed in a quiet, clean environment, away from other animals if possible. There should be no disposal of the carcass until death is established.

Pain relief measures

Suffering is minimised if the procedure is conducted quickly and efficiently.

Qualifications, experience or training necessary to perform this procedure

The procedures should be performed only by persons competent in the methods to be used, or under the direct supervision of a competent person. The appropriate means must be readily at hand. Use of firearms must comply with state legislation.

Reference

Primary Industries Standing Committee (2006) Model Code of Practice for the Welfare of Animals: The Sheep, 2nd edn, available from http://www.publish.csiro.au/nid/22/sid/11.htm