The Humane Treatment of Animals

The welfare of farm animals and the environment where they have been raised and slaughtered is increasingly becoming a major concern for consumers who are concerned about the products they consume. They want to be reassured that not only are the animal products nutritious, but they have been raised under humane conditions, in a stress free environment and have received humane treatment during handling and slaughter.

The Animal Welfare Act of USDA covers those animals that are used in research laboratories, education and outreach programs; however, this act does not cover farm animals at the present time. Since 1999, the Federation of Animal Science Societies has established guidelines for treatment and handling of farm animals. However, these guidelines are practiced on a voluntary basis.

Consumers are becoming increasingly aware and active in such issues; thus, preventive measures should be taken to have a safe and sustainable animal production system. Every producer can be involved in this movement by taking several measures to assure the humane treatment of farm animals. Listed below (adapted from: Outline of Cattle Welfare Critical Control Points on Feedlots, Ranches and Stocker Operations) are a few critical control points that you can check to make your operation livestock-friendly and a stress-free animal production system. Following these guidelines will improve animal welfare and increase the animal’s weight gain, which will increase profits.

Guidelines