Here is the Correct Way to Transport Livestock
Livestock transportation is not that easy, as most people are currently taking it.
After all, you are carrying crucial lives that can’t even speak if they are hungry or have any problem.
So, those who are involved in livestock transport should consider this task delicate and be very cautious throughout the process.
To help producers understand their roles and responsibilities when transporting livestock, we have listed below the Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines that have been created for the land transport of livestock. In Australia, these regulations have been implemented to ensure the humane treatment of animals during transportation.
Here are the guides and regulations to help you.
Principle Requirement
The producer involved in the livestock transport must:
- Avoid injury and suffering.
- Prevent the animals from escaping
- Ensure proper ventilation for the species being transported to provide adequate air quality and quantity.
- Allow easy access to animals so they can be regularly checked and cared for throughout the journey.
- Use flooring that prevents slipping, reducing the risk of injury.
- Minimise urine and feces leakage by choosing appropriate flooring materials.
- Ensure animals have enough food and water for the entire journey.
- Provide scheduled rest periods (spelling) to avoid exhaustion during long trips.
- Equip the transport vehicle with enough lighting to inspect and care for the animals during the trip and when loading or unloading.
Now, following complex regulations can be difficult for normal farm owners without the right vehicle but experience only.
So, there is no chance your livestock will get discomfort during transport, and you are not following the regulations set by the authorities.
How Experts Make the Transportation Process Safe for Livestock
Have Experienced Team: The Backbone of Livestock Transport
Experience is crucial in livestock transportation. Skilled professionals have the expertise to handle various situations that may arise, ensuring animals are treated with care and respect. For example, if animals refuse to enter the vehicle, an experienced handler can calmly guide them without causing stress or injury. In contrast, someone new to the job might struggle in such scenarios, making the experience more challenging for both the animals and the handler.
A seasoned team understands animal behaviour, knows how to maintain a calm environment, and can quickly adapt to unexpected situations. Their knowledge helps prevent accidents, ensures proper handling, and guarantees the animals’ safety during every stage of the transport process.
Suitable Equipment for Loading and Unloading: Proper equipment plays a vital role in safely loading and unloading livestock. Experts use ramps, gates, and chutes specifically designed for animal transport, making the process smooth and minimising the risk of injury. These tools are designed to reduce stress on the animals, guiding them gently into the transport vehicle. Anti-slip surfaces on ramps and floors are a must to prevent falls, and barriers help direct animals safely, reducing hesitation and confusion.
The right equipment ensures that animals can move at their own pace, preventing accidents that could harm both the animals and the handle.
Continuous Monitoring During Transport: Transporting livestock isn’t like hay delivery, a set-it-and-forget-it process. It requires the team to be vigilant, and that's what Experts do: constantly monitor the animals throughout the journey, checking for signs of stress, discomfort, or injury. Access to the animals is crucial, allowing handlers to inspect them regularly, provide water, and ensure they are comfortable. Proper lighting in the vehicle ensures visibility for these inspections, even during night travel.
Summary:
Treat your livestock like you treat humans, follow the above information, and let your livestock enjoy the journey from one farm to another. For more details about livestock transport and vehicle hire, contact our team now!