Timely, humane on-farm euthanasia is a critical welfare tool that prevents prolonged suffering in livestock that cannot recover or be transported humanely.
On-farm euthanasia represents a welfare obligation: when animals cannot recover or cannot be transported humanely, prompt, effective euthanasia is the most welfare-positive action available. Delays in euthanasia driven by cost, uncertainty, or reluctance to lose the investment value of an animal prolong suffering that is ethically indefensible. Farmers must be equipped — through training, access to appropriate equipment, and clear decision-making frameworks — to make and execute euthanasia decisions promptly. The welfare standard is that no animal should experience prolonged suffering when recovery is not possible. Farm animal welfare assessors and veterinarians play important roles in supporting farmers to develop the skills and confidence to make timely euthanasia decisions.