Ref Code: CAT19

Category

Teaching - 3 (Instructor : student ratio 1:3)

Research - 4

Objective

To kill an animal humanely

Alternatives to animal use for teaching

Use of video presentations.

Details of Procedure

Refer to the Australian Model Code of Practice for the Welfare of Animals: Cattle or Primefact 310 Humane destruction of stock.

The animal may need to be restrained to allow quick, easy and safe administration of the lethal injection or gunshot wound.

The preferred methods are:

1. Overdose of anaesthetic under veterinary supervision.
2. Euthanasia using a firearm or captive-bolt pistol by the frontal method. The captive bolt pistol or firearm should be directed at the point of intersection of lines taken from the base of each ear to the opposite eye.

Use of shotguns is not recommended for destruction of cattle.

An animal stunned with a captive-bolt pistol must be bled out by severing the major vessels of the neck as soon as it collapses to the ground. To avoid injury due to the animal’s involuntary leg movements, the operator should stand behind the neck.

Drugs, chemicals, or biological agents

Barbiturate overdose with or without muscle relaxants to be used under veterinary supervision only.

Impact of procedure on the wellbeing of animal(s)

Not applicable.

Reuse and repeated use

Not applicable

Care of animal(s) during/after procedure

Care should be taken to minimise distress of the animal

Pain relief measures

None required

Qualifications, experience or training necessary to perform this procedure

Use of firearms must comply with State legislation.

Demonstrator: Practical experience in the various methods to be employed. Training in the safe use of firearms (if appropriate). Ability to recognise successful completion of the procedure.

Students: Understanding of the anatomy of the animal to ensure that the injection or gunshot wound is appropriately delivered. Training in the use of firearms, if appropriate.