On-farm slaughter and emergency euthanasia of livestock are welfare-critical procedures that require appropriate methods, training, and equipment.
Livestock that are injured, sick, or dying and cannot be humanely transported must be killed on farm without delay. Any delay in carrying out necessary euthanasia causes avoidable suffering. Training farm staff in appropriate emergency slaughter methods, and ensuring the necessary equipment is available and maintained, is a fundamental welfare responsibility. The key principle is that no animal should suffer needlessly when death is the welfare-positive option.