Emergency slaughter of injured or sick animals on farm is a welfare responsibility. Farmers require the skills and equipment to perform humane emergency slaughter when animals cannot be transported.
Emergency slaughter competency is a welfare responsibility for all livestock farmers. Animals that cannot be humanely transported to slaughter must receive prompt, skilled on-farm euthanasia rather than prolonged suffering while awaiting veterinary or transport options. The willingness and ability to perform emergency slaughter when required is a mark of responsible livestock husbandry that protects animal welfare in crisis situations.